What kills me about most of the “traditional” stomach flu remedies we grew up with is how they contribute to staying sicker longer.

When I say traditional, I’m talking about 7-Up, Ginger Ale, saltine crackers, chicken noodle soup, and toast.

“What, Cristy?? Why would you say that?!”

Because there’s one thing they all have in common–something that contributes to disease in all forms–and that thing is: Inflammation.

Inflammation isn’t literal fire, obviously, but it is your internal body’s version of being on fire.

It feeds into–and even causes–most diseases.

What’s sad is that most inflammation can be prevented with the proper human diet, like what we eat on Code Red.

So what does this have to do with things like saltine crackers and chicken noodle soup?

Let’s start with 7-Up and Ginger Ale.

Both are given to us when we’ve got an upset stomach. The carbonation and citrus feel alleviate that sensation of nausea that no one likes.

The problem is, 7-Up and Ginger Ale are packed with sugar, which causes inflammation.

Plus sugar itself feeds directly into disease. (Cancer cells feed off of glucose!)

Saltine crackers and chicken noodle soup are also given to us when we’ve got an upset stomach.

Saltine crackers are made from wheat, which, like sugar, causes inflammation.

Chicken noodle soup would actually be totally fine with out the noodles, which, like saltine crackers, are made from wheat.

Same deal with toast. Made from wheat! Even if it’s gluten-free, the other grains in it can still contribute to inflammation.

The bottom line is, when you’re sick, your body’s already battling to heal you, and the last thing it needs is a bunch of foods that make its job harder.

Plus, if you can’t keep food down, don’t eat! That way your body will have more resources to devote to healing you.

If you get the flu–whether it’s stomach flu, fever and chills flu, or even a cold–the best thing you can do for your body is drink water, and get as much sleep as you can.

Your body does its best healing while you’re asleep. The more you sleep, the faster you heal.

If you’ve got the stomach flu and absolutely need to try and eat something, pick something non-inflammatory and bland, like bone broth (chicken broth will work, too, and yes, it can have sodium), plain cooked chicken, or a bit of avocado.

Ditch the sugar- and grain-based options. They may feel soothing to your upset stomach, but they are NOT healing–the opposite.