What to Stock up on Before You Get Sick, According to Reddit
We can get boosters and flu shots, wash our hands and wear a mask in closed public places. But the chances are high that sooner or later most of us will have to spend a few miserable days at home due to a cold or other minor illness. When this happens, simply remove the Gatorade from the container under the bed.
This idea comes from a Reddit user in the subsection EatCheapandHealthy, who wrote that every fall they start filling a bag under their bed with non-perishable food that they would be happy to eat if they get sick. Their choices are instant soup and noodles, crackers, Gatorade, Tang, Jell-O cups, and cups of applesauce.
“It’s just dumb luck that I put it in a bag under my bed,” they write, “but last year I had the flu and was so dizzy that I couldn’t stand and I just rolled over and grabbed the Gatorades from bags. “. The stash also means you won’t be eating the last can of chicken noodle soup when you’re looking for something to snack on.
What to put in a stash for sick leave
Other redditors have chimed in with their favorite items to have on hand when they get sick. Keep them in mind when building yours.
comfort food
Chicken noodle soup is a classic, but you can choose any foods that will bring you a little comfort when you’re sick. These tend to be things that can be cooked effortlessly (you’re sick, after all) and soothe a sore throat. Instant soups and prepackaged desserts fit the bill.
If you have a favorite snack in case of nausea, you can put that in your bag too. Salted and ginger ales, for example. Tea and honey, if you enjoy drinking them for a sore throat, are another good addition.
Electrolytes and liquids
Pedialyte was invented for dehydrated children (especially those with diarrhea and vomiting), but adults can also drink it. It has electrolytes like sodium and potassium, as well as some sugar. Gatorade is a different formulation, but a similar idea.
Both brands sell a powdered version of their product if you’d rather store the powder than multiple bottles of liquid. Other electrolyte powder products include sports drinks such as Liquid IV, LMNT, and Nuun. Mix them with water for a delicious drink. (Or consider OP Tang’s suggestion for flavor and comfort. It’s easy to stay hydrated if you like the taste of what you’re drinking.)
One parent in the thread had another good idea: take these Pedialyte lozenges and put them in the freezer before you need them. Then they will be available as soon as your child starts to feel unwell.
Medications
Do you always run out of cold medicine just when you need it most? Look in your first aid kit and stock up on what is missing or expired . You may need ibuprofen, a decongestant such as pseudoephedrine, an antihistamine such as Benadryl, which can help you sleep, and possibly some cough drops.
fabrics
Throw a box of tissues in there while you’re at it, and whatever else you normally need when you’re sick but don’t use it otherwise. A thermometer to determine if you have a fever would be another good addition.
Hospital bag
This is an advanced level. A chronically ill redditor mentioned that it’s helpful to have a bag ready in case they need to be hospitalized. Pack the things you’ll really miss if you have to go a day or two without them, like a phone charger and clean underwear. Then add things that will help you feel comfortable in a hospital setting, like a blanket or gown to keep you warm, and maybe an eye mask and earplugs to help you sleep better at night.