Poisoning (food)

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Other names for Poisoning (food)

Foodborne illness
Food poisoning
Gastrointestinal infection

Synopsis of Poisoning (food)

Food poisoning is an acute illness resulting from consuming contaminated food or beverages. It is most commonly caused by bacteria (like Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria), viruses (like norovirus), parasites, or toxins produced by these pathogens. Symptoms usually appear within hours to a few days after eating contaminated food and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever. Most cases are self-limiting and resolve within 1–3 days, but severe cases—especially in young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals—can lead to dehydration or serious complications.

Types:

  • Bacterial food poisoning: Caused by Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, etc.

  • Viral food poisoning: Often due to norovirus or hepatitis A

  • Parasitic food poisoning: Includes Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Toxoplasma

  • Toxin-based poisoning: From spoiled fish (scombroid), botulism, or mycotoxins

Common Causes:

  • Consuming undercooked meat, poultry, or eggs

  • Contaminated produce or unpasteurized dairy

  • Poor food handling or cross-contamination

  • Improper refrigeration or storage

  • Contaminated water or ice

Severity Causes:

  • High bacterial/toxin load in the food

  • Preexisting conditions that weaken immunity

  • Dehydration due to prolonged vomiting or diarrhea

  • Delayed treatment or failure to rest the gut

When to See a Doctor:

  • Bloody stools or persistent high fever

  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping

  • Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours

  • Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, little urination, dizziness)

  • Illness lasting more than 3 days

  • Recent travel or known outbreak exposure

Natural remedies for Poisoning (food)

Activated charcoal: Binds to toxins and gas in the digestive tract and may help reduce severity and duration when taken soon after symptom onset.

Ginger tea: Soothes the stomach, reduces nausea, and aids digestion. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help calm the gut.

Hydration with electrolytes: Replenishes fluids lost through vomiting or diarrhea. Coconut water, electrolyte drinks, or oral rehydration solutions are ideal.

Apple cider vinegar: When diluted and taken before meals, it may help neutralize harmful bacteria and improve digestion. Not recommended during active vomiting.

Chamomile tea: Soothes intestinal inflammation and cramps while promoting gentle hydration and calming nausea.

Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast (BRAT diet): These bland foods are easy on the stomach and help firm stools during recovery.

Slippery elm bark: Coats and soothes the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort from diarrhea or stomach cramps.

Probiotics: Restore healthy gut flora after infection and may help reduce duration of symptoms. Look for strains like Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces boulardii.

Rest: Giving the digestive system a break and allowing the immune system to focus on clearing the infection is essential for recovery.