What Food Helps Settle an Upset Stomach?
An upset stomach can be a discomforting experience, causing nausea, bloating, and a general feeling of unease. While it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the upset stomach and seek appropriate medical attention if needed, certain foods can help alleviate the symptoms and provide relief. These foods are gentle on the stomach, easy to digest, and offer soothing effects. Let’s explore some of these stomach-settling foods.
1. Ginger
Ginger has long been hailed for its medicinal properties, especially when it comes to digestive issues. It contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol that have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects. Consuming ginger in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger ale, or even consuming raw ginger, can help calm the stomach and relieve nausea.
2. Bananas
When your stomach is upset, eating bland and easily digestible foods can be beneficial. Bananas fit the bill perfectly. They are low in acidity, high in potassium, and contain pectin, a soluble fiber that can help reduce diarrhea. The soft texture of bananas makes them gentle on the stomach while providing essential nutrients.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt, especially the one that contains live and active cultures, is a great option for soothing an upset stomach. The probiotics present in yogurt promote a healthy gut by restoring the balance of good bacteria. This can be particularly helpful if the upset stomach is caused by an imbalance in the gut flora or due to a bout of antibiotics.
4. Rice
Plain, boiled rice is another stomach-friendly food to consider when your stomach is feeling uneasy. Stick to white rice rather than whole grain varieties as they may be harder to digest. Rice is gentle on the stomach, easily digestible, and can help absorb excess stomach acids.
5. Toast
Toast is often recommended as part of the “BRAT” diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) for easing digestive issues. Toasted bread is easy to digest and can help absorb excess stomach acids. Opt for plain, white bread without any added spreads or toppings.
6. Peppermint
Peppermint has been used for centuries to calm an upset stomach and aid digestion. It has a soothing effect on the gastrointestinal tract, helps relax muscles, and can relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and nausea. Peppermint tea or sucking on peppermint candies can provide relief.
7. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties, making it an excellent choice when your stomach is upset. It can help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and ease nausea and bloating. Sip on a warm cup of chamomile tea to soothe your stomach and promote relaxation.
8. Chicken Broth
When the stomach is upset, consuming a light and easily digestible broth can provide nourishment without overwhelming the stomach. Chicken broth is a popular choice as it is gentle on the digestive system, provides essential nutrients, and can help rehydrate the body in cases of vomiting or diarrhea.
9. Applesauce
Applesauce is another staple of the BRAT diet, and for good reason. It is easily digestible, provides necessary carbohydrates, and contains natural sugars that can offer a quick source of energy. Opt for unsweetened applesauce to avoid unnecessary additives.
10. Crackers
Plain, saltine crackers can be a handy snack to calm an upset stomach. They are easy to digest, low in fat, and can help absorb stomach acids. Snacking on a few crackers can provide temporary relief and prevent further irritation of the stomach lining.
11. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a gentle and fiber-rich food that can help regulate digestion and ease an upset stomach. It provides nourishment without causing additional discomfort and can help absorb excess stomach acids. Choose plain, unsweetened oats and cook them thoroughly for ease of digestion.
12. Carrots
Carrots are low in acidity and high in soluble fiber, making them a soothing option for an upset stomach. They can help regulate bowel movements and provide necessary vitamins and minerals. Cooked or steamed carrots are easier on the stomach than raw ones.
13. Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which aids in digestion and can help soothe an upset stomach. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can ease symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Enjoy ripe papaya as a snack or in the form of fresh papaya juice.
14. Fennel
Fennel has been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues for centuries. It can help relieve bloating, ease stomach cramps, and promote digestion. Sip on fennel tea or chew on a handful of fennel seeds to experience its soothing effects.
15. Crackers
Plain, saltine crackers can be a handy snack to calm an upset stomach. They are easy to digest, low in fat, and can help absorb stomach acids. Snacking on a few crackers can provide temporary relief and prevent further irritation of the stomach lining.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What causes an upset stomach?
An upset stomach can be caused by various factors, including consuming spoiled or contaminated food, food allergies or intolerances, overeating, stress, certain medications, gastrointestinal infections, and digestive disorders.
2. How long does an upset stomach usually last?
The duration of an upset stomach can vary depending on the cause. In most cases, the symptoms subside within a few hours to a couple of days. However, if the symptoms persist for an extended period, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
3. Are there any foods that should be avoided during an upset stomach?
While it’s important to focus on easily digestible and gentle foods during an upset stomach, there are some foods that you should avoid. These include spicy and greasy foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages, alcohol, and foods high in fiber.
4. Is it necessary to see a doctor for an upset stomach?
In most cases, an upset stomach can be managed at home with dietary and lifestyle changes. However, if the symptoms worsen, persist for an extended period, or are accompanied by severe pain, fever, blood in the stool, or vomiting, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
5. Are there any home remedies for an upset stomach?
Yes, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. Some common remedies include sipping on ginger tea, consuming a mixture of lemon juice and honey, drinking peppermint or chamomile tea, and applying a hot water bottle to the stomach for soothing relief.
6. Can stress contribute to an upset stomach?
Yes, stress can contribute to an upset stomach. When the body is under stress, it releases stress hormones that can interfere with digestion, leading to symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques or exercise, can help improve digestive health.
7. Can medication help with an upset stomach?
Over-the-counter medications like antacids or anti-diarrheal medications can provide temporary relief from the symptoms of an upset stomach. However, it is important to read the instructions carefully and consult a healthcare professional if the symptoms persist or worsen.
8. Is it safe to consume dairy products during an upset stomach?
Dairy products can aggravate an upset stomach in some individuals, especially if they are lactose intolerant. It’s best to avoid or limit consumption of dairy products during an episode of stomach upset and opt for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or lactose-free options.
9. How can I prevent an upset stomach?
To prevent an upset stomach, it’s important to follow good eating habits, such as avoiding overeating and consuming foods that are known to trigger digestive issues. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress levels, staying hydrated, and practicing proper food hygiene can also help prevent stomach upsets.
10. When should I seek medical attention for an upset stomach?
If the symptoms of an upset stomach persist for more than a couple of days, worsen significantly, or are accompanied by severe pain, high fever, blood in the stool, or persistent vomiting, it is recommended to seek medical attention as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Conclusion
An upset stomach can be an uncomfortable and distressing experience, but there are several foods that can help settle the stomach and alleviate the symptoms. Incorporating easily digestible, bland, and soothing foods like ginger, bananas, yogurt, rice, toast, and chamomile tea can provide relief and promote digestive health. However, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the upset stomach and seek appropriate medical attention if needed. Remember to listen to your body and make dietary choices that work best for you during episodes of stomach upset.
