Can Vitamin C Help With Stomach Flu?

Are you suffering from the stomach flu? We’ve all been there! The stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, can cause all kinds of trouble in your digestive system. As a result, it can cause severe discomfort and disrupt your everyday life. 

While the stomach flu is not the same as having influenza, its symptoms (nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea) can be equally debilitating. 

The good news is that there are natural ways to help you reduce the symptoms of the stomach flu (and possibly reduce the risk of showing up again). One of the most powerful allies to help boost your immune function is vitamin C. 

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help enhance immune function. This can lead to a stronger internal army, reinforcing the battle against the stomach flu. 

This blog post explores whether vitamin C can help with the stomach flu. We’ll dive into the role of vitamin C in immune function, natural ways to help you boost your vitamin C intake, and why vitamin C IV treatments may be the best outcome for increasing your vitamin C levels.

Understanding the stomach flu

The stomach flu (gastroenteritis) is an intestinal infection caused by several viruses. In most cases, it’s caused by norovirus and rotavirus (1). These viruses are highly contagious and can spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. 

Several causes can cause viral gastroenteritis. One of the most common is being in crowded places with unsanitary conditions. Poor hand hygiene, consuming contaminated food or water, and contact with an infected person are also common ways of transmission. 

Initial symptoms of the stomach flu can be sudden and severe. They range from abdominal pain and cramps to vomiting and diarrhea. But besides vomiting and diarrhea, some people may also experience fever, headaches, and muscle aches. 

One of the biggest concerns regarding the stomach flu is the increased risk of dehydration due to the sudden loss of fluids. That is why it’s essential to manage the symptoms promptly. 

The stomach flu symptoms may last from a day to a week. What is more concerning is that the immune system takes a significant hit during this period. Hence, supporting the immune system during such times is crucial, and that’s where vitamin C can come into play. 

The science of vitamin C in immune function

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. It is a potent antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress happens when the body has too many free radicals to handle. These unstable molecules can cause problems in the DNA and increase inflammation (2). Chronic inflammation can lower immune function, which may increase the risk of catching a cold or a virus (like gastroenteritis). 

Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties help neutralize these free radicals. As a result, they can help reduce oxidative stress, maintaining the integrity of immune cells and allowing them to function optimally. 

Another crucial role of vitamin C is its support in several cellular functions in the immune system. Vitamin C may help increase the production of white blood cells, including lymphocytes and phagocytes, which are essential for fighting infections. 

This vitamin may also be important in supporting the skin’s barrier function. According to research, vitamin C may help strengthen the skin’s barriers, providing a physical line of defense against pathogens (3). 

Vitamin C and the stomach flu: What does the research say?

The potential benefits of vitamin C in stomach flu are intriguing but are not yet conclusive. While research highlights the efficacy of vitamin C in boosting the immune system, most studies focus on its role in preventing and alleviating symptoms of the common cold rather than the stomach flu (4). 

Vitamin C has shown promise in reducing the duration and severity of colds, suggesting that it may help offer similar benefits for those who struggle with the stomach flu. In fact, a study performed on over 400 students showed that megadoses of vitamin C reduced by 85% the symptoms of the common cold compared to those who didn’t take vitamin C (4). 

To learn more about the benefits of mega doses of vitamin C intravenously, consult with our experts at DripGym. Our experts can provide a personalized plan based on your goals and needs. 

So, it seems that enhancing immune function could theoretically help the body fend off viral infections more effectively, like COVID-19 and gastroenteritis (5). However, more studies are still needed to determine the efficacy of vitamin C in the stomach flu. 

With that said, there are a couple of things worth mentioning regarding the studies of vitamin C and its relationship with fighting viral infections. Most research studies involved high doses of vitamin C administered intravenously (IV). These studies show that such doses can significantly enhance immune response and reduce the duration of the infection. 

Additionally, many studies examine vitamin C in combination with other nutrients. The synergistic effect of a balanced and varied diet rich in several vitamins and minerals is often more beneficial than focusing on a single nutrient. 

Dietary sources of vitamin C

Including sources of vitamin C is a practical way to boost your intake. Several fruits and vegetables are rich in this essential nutrient, making it easy to add to your daily routine. Make sure you don’t focus on only one source. As mentioned, the best results to help enhance immune function are seen through a varied and balanced diet. 

But before we discuss the best foods to boost your vitamin C intake, how much should you take daily? Research suggests a daily intake of 75-90 mg (6). However, depending on the situation, the intake may be higher. If you are unsure about your daily intake based on your goals and needs, speak to a health professional to get a personalized recommendation. 

Here are some of the best sources of vitamin C. 

• Red pepper (95 mg per ½ cup)
  
  
• Orange (70 mg per medium orange)
  
  
• Kiwifruit (64 mg per medium kiwifruit)
  
  
• Broccoli (51 mg per ½ cup cooked)
  
  
• Strawberries (49 mg per ½ cup sliced)
  
  
• Grapefruit (39 mg per ½ medium grapefruit)

While getting vitamin C from food is ideal, supplements may also be a helpful addition, especially during illness when the body’s demand for this nutrient is higher. Supplements can offer a convenient way to ensure an adequate intake during times of need. But, before you add a new supplement to your routine, speak with a health professional. 

Practical tips for boosting vitamin C intake

Now that you know the sources of vitamin C, you may be wondering how you can include it in your diet. Enhancing your diet with this vitamin doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to help you get started. 

1. Snack on citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits.
   
   
2. Start your day with a lemon shot. Simply mix lemon with warm water (you can add turmeric for an extra antioxidant boost)
   
   
3. Use citrus-based salad dressing to add a tangy flavor. 
   
   
4. Make a breakfast smoothie with berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cherries).
   
   
5. Cook smart. Heat can destroy some vitamin C. Opt for raw or lightly cooked vegetables.
   
   
6. Choose light cooking. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning you lose some through water. That is why it’s best to cook foods high in vitamin C using steaming or microwaving (don’t boil them). 

Other lifestyle habits to help manage the stomach flu

Managing and recovering from the stomach flu isn’t just about taking more vitamin C or medication. Lifestyle habits play a crucial role. Healthy habits can help ease the symptoms, speed up recovery, and prevent future infections. 

Here are some lifestyle habits that can allow your body to heal effectively. 

Focus on easy-to-digest foods. Opt for bland, low-fiber foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help reduce nausea and diarrhea.

Avoid irritants and sugar. Certain foods like dairy, fatty foods, spicy dishes, caffeine, and sugary foods can irritate the stomach and worsen stomach flu symptoms.

Drink plenty of fluids. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to replace lost electrolytes and keep your body hydrated, especially if you are having vomiting and diarrhea. You can use water, clear broths, and rehydration solutions to keep you hydrated.

Prioritize sleep. Your body needs adequate rest to fight off the infection and recover. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep, and consider adding short naps during the day.

Manage stress. Stress can weaken the immune system and slow down your recovery. Engage in relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises, to keep your stress levels low.

Good hygiene practices. Good hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of stomach flu. Make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before eating.

Using IV fluids for the stomach flu

During a strong case of stomach flu, it can be challenging to meet the body’s vitamin C intake. Intravenous (IV) fluids can be an effective solution for rapid absorption and higher bioavailability of vitamin C. Additionally, as we mentioned before, most studies saw improvements in symptoms using mega doses of vitamin C, particularly through IV administration. 

Another key benefit of using IV fluids for the stomach flu is rehydration speed. Since fluids enter directly into the bloodstream, they quickly replace lost fluids and electrolytes. This rapid rehydration can help alleviate symptoms faster, making you feel better sooner. 

Not everyone with the stomach flu will need IV fluids, but certain situations warrant this treatment. If you experience severe dehydration, characterized by symptoms like extreme thirst, little or no urination, dry skin, dizziness, or confusion, it may be time to consider IV fluids. 

But before you consider IV treatment, make sure you speak with a health professional if the stomach flu symptoms worsen or they don’t get better after several days. 

Final words

Vitamin C can be a powerful ally in fighting against the stomach flu. Its immune-boosting properties, combined with a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle habits, can help you manage symptoms and support recovery. 

Include vitamin C-rich foods into your diet and consider supplements or IV fluids when necessary. Remember, a holistic approach is key to dealing with stomach flu effectively.