Well, the short answer is we've got 4 kids out of practice due to the stomach flu and as their coach I want to see them recover to full health and be able to get back to practice, learn the game and contribute to the success of the team. As a father of 7 children I know about the grueling affects of the stomach flu... early mornings and late nights and all the times in between helping disoriented young ones to the restroom while they are convinced that their world is about to end is not fun. Think it's bad with one imagine two or three having it at the same time!
At any rate, I have three (okay four) things I want to suggest just real quick to help our team get past this...
1.) If you have the flu and you know it don't come to practice!!! Many of the kids share water bottles and this will only serve to spread the flu to others on the team. Even if they bring their own water bottle they run the risk of spreading it.
2.) Get lots of rest!!! When you're fighting the flu your worst enemy is the fact that you struggle to keep down important calories and nutrients that your body needs to work. It's ideal therefore to not exercise and allow your body to focus all of its available energies on supporting your immune system.
3.) Superhydrate yourself!!! You can't consume enough liquids when you're fighting the stomach flu (but avoid carbonated & sugary drinks to do this). While your sick your body is losing excess amounts of liquid so replacement of those liquids is essential. All of your body's organs need proper hydration in order to function properly... including the cells associated with your immune system!
A TIP FOR HYDRATION: Gatorade works great but it should be diluted 4 parts water to 1 part Gatorade. This allows the electrolytes to get into your system faster. Straight Gatorade is not absorbed through your digestive system as quickly as water is, so by diluting it more of the Gatorade (which is good for fighting dehydration) will get into your system.
4.) Finally after you've properly hydrated yourself and you are getting rest begin eating a BRAT diet. BRAT stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast. These bland foods will allow your stomach to settle. Stay away from citrus, greasy foods, dairy and tomato products. Also avoid coffee, and carbonated drinks.
Hope this helps and to all you out there that are feeling blue and looking pale... I pray you have a fast recovery!
God Bless,
Coach JC
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