How to Hydrate Your Body After Stomach Virus

A stomach illness such as diarrhea -- often called a stomach virus -- flushes fluids out of the body, creating dehydration and cramping. Hydrating your body after a stomach illness is an easy process if you follow a few simple steps and remember that your body needs more than just liquids to rehydrate -- it needs minerals and salts as well.

Instructions

Hydrate your body

• 1

  Choose beverages that contain a balance between sweeteners and sodium. Stomach illnesses generally upset the levels of electrolytes and minerals in your body and draw fluids out of your system. Low-sugar beverages that also contain sodium help replenish it. Oral electrolyte solutions (such as Pedialyte), sports drinks or even a quart of apple juice with a teaspoon of salt in it will help. Clear broth is also a good option.

• 2

  Avoid beverages that will worsen the dehydration or the symptoms. Sugary or caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks will make the problem worse by flushing fluids out of your system and increasing the dehydration. Dairy products may worsen the symptoms of your stomach illness.

• 3

  Choose only clear liquids as a good rule of thumb. If you can't see through the liquid when you pour it into a glass, avoid it for at least 24 hours after symptoms of your stomach illness subside.

• 4

  Drink fluids at room temperature. Beverages at room temperature tend to sit better in the stomach.