For the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children, the diet should be light and easily digestible, with rice water, thin porridge, and cooked vegetables recommended. The onset of the disease is often related to infection, improper diet, or exposure to cold.
1. The causes of acute gastroenteritis include viral infection, bacterial infection, changes in environmental temperature, and unclean or excessive food intake. Viral infections include rotavirus and norovirus; bacterial infections include Salmonella and Escherichia coli; cold drinks, raw or cold foods, or overeating may also trigger it.
2. Dietary therapy is an important way to relieve acute gastroenteritis. Rice water and thin porridge are easy to digest and can replenish water and energy; cooked vegetables such as carrots and pumpkin are rich in vitamins but do not irritate the stomach and intestines; fermented foods such as yogurt help restore the balance of intestinal flora, but sugar-free and low-fat products should be chosen.
3. Medication should be administered as prescribed by a doctor. Commonly used medications include montmorillonite powder for stopping diarrhea, oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration, and probiotic preparations to restore gut microbiota. Avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics, as this may worsen the condition.
4. The key to preventing acute gastroenteritis lies in food hygiene and proper feeding. Food should be cooked thoroughly and raw or cold food should be avoided; tableware should be disinfected regularly; pay attention to personal hygiene, wash hands before meals and after using the toilet; avoid overeating and control the intake of cold drinks.
5. If symptoms persist or worsen, such as frequent vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or lethargy, seek medical attention promptly to rule out severe dehydration or other complications.
Although acute gastroenteritis is common, most children can recover quickly with a proper diet and timely treatment; pay attention to preventive measures to reduce the risk of recurrence.