Food poisoning: The causes, treatments and natural remedies
A food poisoning condition is when foods or beverages are contaminated by bacteria, viruses or parasites. This can happen to anyone, but it can also be fatal in children and the elderly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are approximately 48 million cases each year of food poisoning in America, resulting into roughly 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 death.
It all boils down to:
When food or drinks are contaminated by harmful organisms like bacteria, viruses or parasites, it is called food poisoning. Food poisoning can occur when foods are improperly stored, cooked or produced. Food poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps. Most symptoms disappear within days, and don't require any medical attention. Food poisoning may cause serious and even life-threatening illnesses in rare cases. It is therefore important to recognize and prevent food poisoning symptoms.
Common Causes of Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites. Incorrect food storage and handling can often lead to bacteria contamination. Salmonella, E. coli and listeria bacteria can all cause food poisoning if it gets into the food supply. Viral contamination can be caused by direct contact with infected animals or people, as well as by drinking contaminated water. Food poisoning can be caused by parasites like giardia or cryptosporidium. Food poisoning can also be caused by some types of toxins.
The following are common sources of bacteria food poisoning:
- Don't overcook poultry, beef, pork or any other meats
- Seafood, raw or cooked
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Washed vegetables and fruits
- Water contaminated
Common causes of viral food poisoning are:
- Ciders and juices of fruit that have not been pasteurized
- Shellfishes, raw or undercooked
- Raw eggs
- Water contaminated
These are the most common sources of parasitic poisoning.
- Don't overcook poultry or fish
- You can either cook your meat raw or sous-cooked
- Washed vegetables and fruits
- Drinking water contaminated
Common Treatments for Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is most often treated at home using fluids, rest and other over-the-counter medicines to lower fever and pain. For more serious cases of food poisoning, Antibiotics might be required to combat bacterial infection. Anti-diarrheals and Antacids are some other options. Doctors may recommend other treatments depending on what type of food poisoning they are dealing with, such as intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement.
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat food poisoning and bacterial Infections . Depending on how severe the infection is, antibiotics can be administered intravenously or orally. Viral infections can also be treated with antiviral medication. Antiparasitic medication such as Metronidazole and ivermectin can be used to treat parasitic infections.
Considerations of Experts and Professionals on Food Poisoning
Experts agree that food poisoning can be avoided by being proactive. Good hygiene habits include washing your hands after touching food and heating food at the right temperature. Also, it is important to properly store food and prevent cross-contamination of raw and cooked food. It is also important that food does not become spoiled or expired.
Experts recommend that you avoid unpasteurized milk products and undercooked meats, eggs and raw fruits or vegetables, as they could have been contaminated by animal feces. Avoiding water sources that are contaminated by bacteria, viruses or parasites is also important. It is also important to be aware of signs and symptoms that could indicate food poisoning, and get medical attention when necessary.
Use natural remedies and tips
You can find natural ways to treat food poisoning symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating plain foods like toast and applesauce to keep hydrated and probiotics to boost beneficial bacteria levels in your gut are some of the remedies. Chamomile, ginger, peppermint and peppermint teas can also be helpful in relieving nausea and vomiting. To absorb toxic substances in the body, activated charcoal can be used. To help your body heal, you need to rest well.
Food poisoning can result in serious, potentially fatal illness. Food poisoning can be prevented by following good food safety procedures, including washing your hands after touching food and cooking the food at the right temperature. Natural remedies such as taking probiotics and drinking lots of fluids can also help with symptoms of food poisoning. It is crucial to get medical attention immediately if you suspect you might have food poisoning.