When you have viral gastroenteritis, you should drink plenty of liquids to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. You may vomit after you eat or lose your appetite for a short time. When your appetite returns, you can most often go back to eating your normal diet, even if you still have diarrhea.

If you are suffering from norovirus in 2026, the general medical advice is to listen to your body but prioritize hydration over solid food during the acute phase of vomiting and diarrhea. For the first few hours of intense symptoms, your digestive system may not be able to "keep anything down," and forcing food can lead to further distress. Instead, focus on small, frequent sips of Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) or clear broths to replace lost electrolytes. Once the vomiting has subsided for several hours and you feel hungry, you should slowly reintroduce "bland" foods—often referred to as the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast). Avoid fatty, spicy, or high-fiber foods, as well as dairy and caffeine, which can irritate the gut. In 2026, doctors emphasize that while you shouldn't starve yourself for days, "resting" the bowel is a legitimate part of recovery. If you cannot keep even small sips of water down for more than 12 hours, seek medical attention for intravenous fluids.