Is Sprite good for the stomach flu?

If you are suffering from stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, drinking clear, fizzy drinks like Sprite can do more harm than good. While it was previously believed that Sprite can help ease stomach discomfort, recent studies have suggested otherwise.

Here's a breakdown of why Sprite isn't the best choice for stomach flu:

1. Sugar Content: Sprite and other similar fizzy drinks contain a high amount of sugar. Consuming sugar in large amounts can aggravate diarrhea and lead to further dehydration, a common complication of the stomach flu [1].
2. Lack of Electrolytes: In cases of stomach flu, it's crucial to keep your body hydrated and replace lost electrolytes. Unfortunately, Sprite doesn't contain any significant amounts of electrolytes that are necessary to prevent dehydration [2].

So, what should you drink instead of Sprite when you have the stomach flu? Doctors generally recommend drinking oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte, Infalyte, Naturalyte, and Ceralyte. These drinks contain the right amount of sugar and salt that can help treat dehydration caused by diarrhea. Additionally, clear broths and herbal teas can work as a great alternative[2].

Learn More:

1. 7 Best Fluids to Fight off the Stomach Flu - Healthline
2. Is soda good or bad for diarrhea? - Medical News Today
3. Gastroenteritis: First Aid - Mayo Clinic