Can I eat pizza with the flu? (eat pizza to fight gastroenteritis)
In this article, we will answer the following question: Can I eat pizza with the flu? We will discuss whether pizza is a good idea for fighting the flu, even bacteria such as E.coli. We will tell you what to eat and drink when you have the flu and leave you with a healthy sample menu.
Can I eat pizza with the flu?
Although we cannot recommend eating pizza with the flu (mainly because hot pizza can hurt your already sore throat), some researchers believe that oregano oil, which gives pizza its unique taste, may benefit you. A substance in oregano oil attacks the outer layer of norovirus, causing diarrhea and vomiting.
You can even eat out at restaurants during flu season.
A study published this February 12, 2014, in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, reveals that carvacrol, a substance found in oregano oil and thyme, attacks the outer layer of norovirus, the second cause of gastroenteritis after rotavirus.
Because it contains carvacrol, the oil of oregano, which gives that particular taste to pizzas, would be useful in calming gastroenteritis symptoms. The same goes for the thyme oil sometimes used. These are the conclusions of a study led by Dr. Kelly Bright of the University of Arizona (United States).
By analyzing the effects of this component on mice, her team realized that carvacrol could, in addition to fighting against the bacteria E. coli, bacillus cereus, and polycyanic bacillus responsible for gastroenteritis, attack the outer layer of norovirus, the second leading cause of gastro after rotavirus. Norovirus is then more vulnerable to other antimicrobial agents.
Norovirus is known to cause many food-borne illnesses. It is particularly troublesome in welcoming sensitive audiences, such as schools, hospitals, or retirement homes.
The solution to the virus may well come from our diet, according to Dr. Kelly Bright, who conducted the study: “Carvacrol could be used as a food disinfectant and even for surfaces, especially in combination with other antibacterials. There is still work to be done to assess its potential, but carvacrol uniquely attacks the virus, making the prospect intriguing. “
Pizza – effective against E. coli?
A study in mice determined that carvacrol attacks the norovirus mantle, leaving it vulnerable to other antimicrobial agents. The good news from this study is that it may help destroy the virus on surfaces and in the stomachs in combination with other products.
This tool is all the more impressive because it is not corrosive, unlike traditional detergents. It is, therefore, perfect for schools, hospitals, and other structures welcoming fragile patients.
What should we eat when we have the flu?
Dairy products – Yogurts and hard cheeses only. Dairy products provide you with calcium, promoting bone renewal and the proteins necessary for the regeneration of all tissues in the body. Dairy products can be consumed several times a day, three to four times. The portions depend on the state of healing of each individual.
Milk should be avoided because it stimulates digestion and promotes diarrhea.
Proteins – These foods are rich in protein, which promotes the renewal of body tissues. They also help the body function properly with the supply of certain minerals such as iron and vitamins. Fatty meats and fish marinated in oil should be avoided, as fat increases intestinal transit speed and increases diarrhea tenfold.
Starchy foods – Starchy foods should be taken with caution. Some are very beneficial; others are not. It is essential to favor starches that are low in fiber. Foods rich in fiber promote intestinal transit, and so you will understand, increase diarrhea!
You can therefore eat pasta, risotto-style rice (preferably), and potatoes.
Fruits and vegetables – Products such as fruits and vegetables are not the priority in cases of gastroenteritis. They are not recommended during a period of intestinal disorders. However, some are authorized, such as carrots, beets, zucchini, leeks… Remember to cook them before eating them!
For fruits, opt for very consistent fruits such as quince, banana, apple. A little tip: apple-quince compote is excellent for stopping diarrhea.
Drinks – During gastroenteritis, the body becomes dehydrated, so it is necessary to remedy this deficiency—the secret: at least 2L of water during the day. Mineral water is a great classic; it is strongly recommended that you do not have gastroenteritis. Otherwise, sodas, tea, and coffee are also advised to regulate your intestinal transit.
Other FAQs about Pizza which you may be interested in.
Is cold pizza good for breakfast?
Is domino’s pizza vegan without cheese?
A sample menu for when you are out with the flu
Here’s a sample menu, at least one thing you won’t have to think about if you have diarrhea. Healthy and balanced, follow the chef’s recipe!
Breakfast: Buttered rusks, yogurt, and banana
Lunch: Chicken breast, risotto, Emmental and apple-quince compote
Dinner: Grilled cod, beets, carrot, and yogurt.
There you have it; you know which diet to choose to overcome the flu faster!
Conclusions
Several studies have shown that carvacrol is effective against bacteria that cause gastrointestinal infections: E. coli, bacillus cereus, or the polycyanic bacillus.
However, avoid devouring a pizza at the next gastro outbreak: carvacrol is useless in preventing norovirus. In addition to the adverse effects of a pizza diet, substance abuse could be indigestible: too concentrated, it causes burning sensations and then numbness of the tongue!
If you have any questions or comments on the content, please let us know!
References
Antiviral efficacy and mechanisms of action of oregano essential oil and its primary component carvacrol against murine norovirus, D.H. Gilling M. Kitajima J.R. Torrey K.R. Bright (February 2014)
Medicalxpress.com
WebMD.com
