As a parent, you’ve probably handled it all—messy diapers, car seat clean-ups, and unexpected tummy infections from daycare. And then there’s food poisoning.
While it usually passes in a few days, food poisoning can be just as rough on little ones as it is on adults. Most of the time, your main job is to keep your child comfortable.
In this blog, we will explore food poisoning in detail, from its signs to how to prevent it.
What is Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, happens when you eat or drink something contaminated with harmful germs like bacteria, viruses, or parasites. These germs can also create toxins that make you sick.
Here are some common signs of food poisoning to watch for:
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Fever
Food infection symptoms can show up just a few hours or even a few days after eating the bad food, and they typically last from a few hours to several days. While most cases are mild and get better on their own, some severe cases may need a doctor’s help.
Food Poisoning Reasons in Kids
1. Improperly Cooked Street Food
Street food is a popular culinary aspect of Indian cuisine, known for its diverse flavours and variety. However, improper cooking techniques and hygiene practices can make certain street foods a potential source of food poisoning. Foods like pani puri, samosas, and bhel puri can carry risks if the ingredients are not adequately cooked, stored, or handled. It is crucial to choose street vendors carefully and opt for freshly prepared food that is cooked thoroughly and served hot.
What is the main reason for food poisoning in kids?
Experts believe that Salmonella bacteria are the leading cause of food poisoning worldwide. These bacteria typically enter food through contact with animal faeces. The main causes of Salmonella poisoning include consuming dairy products, undercooked meat, and fresh produce that hasn’t been washed properly.
2. Contaminated Dairy Products
We Indians love our dairy products, don’t we? That’s why we use a lot of dairy products, like milk, dahi, paneer (cottage cheese), and ghee (clarified butter). While these dairy products are highly nutritious, they can also become sources of food poisoning if contaminated. Raw milk (that’s not heated) or unpasteurised milk and improperly processed dairy products can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. Always buy your dairy from reputable stores that stock only fresh items, preferably buying fresh paneer instead of pre-packed paneer. Also, always give your child milk that has been heated once. This will kill the bacteria present.
3. Spices and Condiments
Every region of India has fermented food. South Indians have Idli and Dosa, Gujaratis have Dhokla, etc. Fermented food has its unique flavours and health benefits. However, inadequate fermentation or improper storage can lead to bacterial growth, often leading to food poisoning in kids and adults alike.
Therefore, it’s important always to follow proper fermentation techniques, maintain appropriate temperatures, and consume fermented foods within the recommended time frame to minimise the risk of food poisoning in kids. Following the advice food poisoning time frame can help alleviate the onset of the illness in kids. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of this common cause of food poisoning in kids.
4. Inadequately Fermented Foods
Every region of India offers some delectable food that is fermented. Such food offers unique flavours and health benefits. However, inadequate fermentation or improper storage can lead to bacterial growth and food poisoning. Fermented foods like dosa batter, idli, dhokla and pickles can become potential sources of contamination if not prepared and stored correctly. So, always follow proper fermentation techniques, maintain appropriate temperatures, and consume fermented foods within the recommended time frame to minimise the risk of food poisoning in kids. Following the advice food poisoning time frame can help alleviate the onset of the illness in kids. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of this common cause of food poisoning in kids.
5. Seafood Preparations
India boasts a vast coastline, making seafood readily available in many regions. The popularity of delicacies such as fish curry, prawn biryani, and crab masala is immense. Although seafood is great for a good dose of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, at the same time, you should know that seafood can cause food poisoning, especially in children, if mishandled or not cooked thoroughly. Contamination can occur during harvesting, transportation, or storage, leading to bacterial growth. So, how do you ensure safe seafood, or how do you prevent food poisoning in children? By ensuring your seafood is sourced only from reputable suppliers, stored at the correct temperature, and cooked to appropriate internal temperatures.
Signs To Watch Out!
Recognising the signs of food poisoning in children is crucial for prompt intervention. If you feel there is even a slight possibility that your kid has eaten something unsafe – be alert and watch out for these common food poisoning symptoms in kids:
1. Nausea and Vomiting
This is the most common food poisoning symptom in kids – persistent nausea and repeated vomiting. It is one of the common causes of food poisoning in kids.
2. Diarrhea: A common symptom
Frequent loose or watery bowel movements. Pay attention to any changes in the colour or consistency of their stool.
3. Abdominal Pain and Cramps
Children with food poisoning often complain of stomach pain or cramps. They may hold or rub their abdomen to alleviate discomfort.
4. Fever
Food poisoning can, at times, also cause a low-grade or high-grade fever. A thermometer can come to your rescue to quickly monitor your little one’s body temperature.
5. Fatigue and Weakness
Food poisoning can leave children feeling tired and weak. They may lack energy and appear lethargic.
7 Easy Immediate Home Care Remedies For Food Poisoning
Treatment for food poisoning in kids should begin immediately when you suspect it. Here’s what you can do:
1. Hydration
Replenishing lost fluids is crucial to prevent dehydration. Encourage your child to drink plenty of clear liquids such as water, diluted fruit juices, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS). Offer small, frequent sips if your child is vomiting.
2. Rest
Undisputedly, the most needed treatment for food poisoning in kids is rest. Get your kid to sleep and rest. Avoid strenuous activities until their condition improves.
3. BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) can help soothe the stomach and provide easily digestible foods. Offer small portions of these foods to your child as their appetite returns. Even khichdi and dahi chawal help.
4. Avoid Certain Foods
During the recovery period, avoid spicy, fatty, and greasy foods, as they can further irritate the digestive system. Also, avoid dairy products until the diarrhoea resolves.
5. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)
If your child experiences severe diarrhoea or vomiting, an oral rehydration solution can help replace lost electrolytes. Follow the instructions on the package for appropriate dosage and administration.
6. Maintain Proper Hygiene
Ensure that your child washes their hands thoroughly before and after using the toilet and before handling food. This helps prevent the spread of any potential pathogens. Along with hygiene it is essential to be aware of food poisoning time frames for kids.
7. Seek Medical Advice
Most cases of food poisoning in children resolve within a few days with home care. But you need to be vigilant about the symptoms in case they are not showing signs of receding. In such a case, immediately meet your paediatrician. These signs can be dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urine output).
Conclusion
While enjoying the diverse and flavourful Indian cuisine, it is important to be mindful of the common causes of food poisoning in children. By being aware of what to avoid and also the symptoms in case of a situation you can help protect your child from the harms of food poisoning. In this article, we have covered essential information on food poisoning. We have also spoken about the food poisoning recovery time.
At EuroKids preschool, we prioritise the health and well-being of our students. We encourage parents to send only freshly cooked food for their child’s tiffin, ensuring optimal nutrition and food safety. Most of our centres also provide a meal planner to help parents create fun and healthy meal options, fostering a positive eating experience for their children.
For informative and accurate articles on all things related to your new born or toddler’s development, growth, health and nutrition, follow EuroKids Blogs and do check out our nationally recognised preschools – EuroKids Preschools for the first step in your kid’s educational journey!
