What to drink when you have food poisoning

[Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/) can cause [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/) and [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), which remove fluid and salts. Oral rehydration fluid contains a measured balance that helps the intestine absorb water and electrolytes. Plain water can help, but it may not replace salts sufficiently when losses are heavy. [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/) can make a full glass trigger more vomiting, so tolerance matters more than drinking quickly.

Take small sips every few minutes. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly, then restart more slowly. Use a commercially prepared [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) product according to its instructions; do not make it stronger than directed. Water, clear soup, and diluted non-caffeinated drinks may be alternatives when symptoms are mild. Avoid alcohol and very sugary drinks, which can worsen stomach upset or diarrhoea. Resume light foods when appetite returns.

Seek medical advice if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, feel faint, become unusually drowsy, or develop a dry mouth with worsening weakness. Get urgent assessment for blood in vomit or stool, severe [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/), confusion, or a high or persistent [Fever](/symptoms/fever/). [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) may be considered when oral fluids are not enough.

Ask which rehydration product suits you, how to manage ongoing vomiting, and whether your medicines need adjustment while you are unwell. Mention recent travel, other sick contacts, urine changes, fever, and the duration of diarrhoea.