Loss of appetite after food poisoning

Toxins or germs in contaminated food can irritate the stomach and bowel. Nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhoea, fever, and a lingering unpleasant taste may make food unattractive. Appetite can remain low while the gut settles, even after vomiting or diarrhoea begins to improve.

Similar symptoms can occur with gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, gastritis, or peptic ulcer disease. The timing of symptoms, other people affected, travel, and the presence of fever or pain help a clinician judge what is happening.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. When ready, try bland foods in small portions, then gradually return to your usual meals as tolerated. Wash hands carefully, avoid preparing food for others while unwell, and follow local food-safety advice.

Avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen nausea. Do not use anti-diarrhoea or antibiotic medicines without appropriate advice, especially if there is fever or blood in the stool. Monitor urine, dizziness, vomiting, and bowel symptoms.

Seek urgent care for blood or black material in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, or signs of serious dehydration such as very little urine. Arrange medical advice for persistent vomiting, high fever, worsening symptoms, or illness in a pregnant person, young child, older adult, or someone with a long-term condition.

Ask which rehydration drink is suitable, whether you need testing or treatment, and when it is safe to resume normal food and activities. Describe when symptoms started, what you ate, vomiting or stool changes, fever, travel, and any affected household members.