What Is Food Poisoning? How can you Prevent it?
Food poisoning can be a serious illness. It occurs when foods are contaminated by bacteria, viruses and other toxic substances. You may experience nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps, as well as Diarrhea . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are 48 million cases each year of food poisoning, resulting into 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 death.
Food poisoning: Common Causes
Consuming food and drinks contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites can cause food poisoning. Food poisoning can be caused by:
- Consuming raw, undercooked, or uncooked meats, poultry, fish or eggs.
- Salmonella, E.coli, Campylobacter, Listeria can be ingested in food contaminated by bacteria.
- Consuming contaminated beverages or water.
- Consume food stored too long or at the wrong temperature.
- Cross-contamination occurs from cutting boards and utensils to countertops or other surfaces.
Common Treatments For Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can be treated by letting the illness go its course. Food poisoning usually resolves within days. However, more serious cases might require medical attention. There are also other treatments available for food poisoning:
- To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of fluids.
- To reduce pain and fever, you can take over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen.
- Get enough rest, and avoid strenuous activities.
- If the cause of food poisoning is certain bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
- If you are severely dehydrated, intravenous fluids may be given.
Expert Opinions about Food Poisoning
Experts recommend taking precautions to avoid food poisoning. This includes washing your Hand s frequently and eating from food preparation surfaces, properly cooking meat and eggs and not allowing cross-contamination. According to the CDC, meats should be cooked at these internal temperatures. Ground beef should not exceed 160°F (71°C), while poultry should attain 165°F (74°C), while pork should achieve 145°F (63°C). Food should be refrigerated for no more than 2 hours.
Tips and Natural Remedies for Prevention
You can find natural remedies to help you get rid of symptoms such as food poisoning like ginger tea and peppermint tea. Probiotics can also be used to restore digestive balance and boost beneficial bacteria. Food poisoning can be prevented by safe food preparation and storage. Hand washing is essential before, during and after cooking and when using the restroom.
Although food poisoning is a very serious condition, there are ways to prevent it or treat it quickly. You can be safe and stay healthy by following these tips.
Conclusion
A common cause of food poisoning is eating or drinking contaminated foods or drinks. Food poisoning can be caused by eating undercooked or raw meats, poultry, eggs, or shellfish as well as consuming food that has been contaminated with bacteria and drinking contaminated beverages. Food poisoning is usually treated by allowing the illness to resolve, drinking lots of fluids to avoid dehydration, using over-the-counter medication, getting enough rest, and allowing it to go its course. It is important to take preventative measures such as washing your hands after handling food, properly cooking meats and eggs and not allowing cross-contamination. There are natural remedies available that may help with symptoms such as ginger tea and peppermint tea. Food poisoning can be prevented by safe food preparation and storage, as well as avoiding potentially dangerous foods. Food poisoning is usually preventable or easily treated with the proper precautions.