Food poisoning isn’t something many people take seriously, but it can lead to some serious health issues. We often think we’re being careful—washing hands after handling raw chicken, using separate chopping boards for different foods—but let’s be honest: how many of us have used the same tongs at a barbecue or left cooked rice out for too long?
Food poisoning usually happens when we eat contaminated food. This could be bacteria, viruses, or toxins lurking in that meal. “Some bacteria, like Bacillus cereus found in reheated rice, can produce toxins before you even take a bite,” says Dr. Masarat Jilani, an NHS specialist. This can lead to quick symptoms like vomiting. Others, like Salmonella and E. coli, affect us after eating, often causing longer-lasting gut issues.
“It’s fascinating how different bacteria operate,” says Dr. Emma Doughty, an infectious disease scientist. Take Campylobacter jejuni, often in chicken—it can burrow into your gut lining, causing inflammation. Knowing which type of bacteria is at fault can be tricky, and that determines treatment.
In many cases, antibiotics aren’t prescribed right away. “If you have a certain strain of E. coli, antibiotics can make things worse by releasing toxins,” Doughty explains. That’s why doctors often recommend letting your body heal naturally.
So, how can we prevent food poisoning? Classic advice holds true: avoid raw oysters and undercooked meats. Recently, medium-rare burgers have become trendy, but not everyone knows that ground beef must be cooked thoroughly to kill lurking bacteria. Washing chicken, a popular practice on social media, is actually risky since it spreads germs around your kitchen.
Keeping food clean and separate is crucial. Make sure to cool leftovers quickly and store them in the fridge within two hours. And never forget to wash your hands—especially after handling food.
Most people recover from food poisoning fairly well, but dehydration is a big concern. Jilani recommends drinking lots of water and using oral rehydration salts if needed. Starting with a bland diet, like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (known as the BRAT diet), can help when reintroducing regular meals.
In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to issues like sepsis, which may cause rapid heartbeat and dizziness. If you feel this happening, contact your doctor immediately. There’s also a chance of developing post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can leave you with persistent abdominal discomfort.
The overwhelming takeaway? Most food poisoning cases clear up on their own within a few days. Just remember to be mindful next time you’re handling food. Keeping safety in mind can save you from a lot of discomfort.
For more insights into food safety, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
