Introduction
As anyone who has experienced an upset stomach knows, the discomfort can be quite unbearable. Symptoms from bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting can make it tough to concentrate, work, or relax. An upset stomach can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, infection, overeating, or food intolerances. However, there are a variety of natural remedies, foods, and medications that can help alleviate symptoms and restore comfort. In this article, we will explore the different ways to cure an upset stomach to get you feeling your best.
Natural Remedies
When dealing with an upset stomach, many people prefer to tackle the root of the issue with natural remedies instead of resorting to medication. Moreover, several natural remedies can help to relieve and soothe symptoms without any risk of side effects. Some of the most effective natural remedies include ginger, peppermint, and chamomile tea. Ginger helps to reduce inflammation in the stomach, peppermint can relax abdominal muscles and chamomile tea can ease indigestion and bloating.
To prepare ginger tea, simply steep fresh ginger root or powder in hot water for a few minutes. Drink the tea to soothe symptoms. Peppermint tea can be made either by steeping fresh peppermint leaves or using a tea bag. Chamomile tea is easy to make by steeping dried chamomile flowers in hot water for several minutes. Sipping on any of these teas a few times a day can help ease an upset stomach naturally.
Foods to Eat
While avoiding food may seem like the best way to heal an upset stomach, consuming certain foods can actually help to soothe it more quickly. Eating the right foods can support digestion and reduce inflammation, which makes the digestive process less uncomfortable. The key is to select plain, easy-to-digest carbs that will not add extra stress to the digestive process. Some of the best foods to eat when you have an upset stomach include bland carbohydrates such as white rice, crackers, or toast. Similarly, bananas and applesauce are useful for calming the digestive system. Bananas can also help to regulate bowel movements, while applesauce can ease diarrhea.
It is worth noting that low-fat foods are better for your digestive system, as high-fat foods can contribute to more issues if you already have an upset stomach. Fat triggers contractions in the digestive system, which can worsen diarrhea. So, it’s best to stick to low-fat foods during an upset stomach episode.
Medications
In some cases, natural remedies and dietary adjustments may not be effective in treating an upset stomach. For this reason, medications can prove helpful for some people. Over-the-counter medication like antacids, anti-diarrheals, and stomach medicine relieve symptoms and soothe the stomach by balancing the acid levels in the digestive system. As a rule, antacids are better for managing heartburn, while anti-diarrhea medicines may be most useful for loose stools.
It is important to follow the instructions that come with any medication you choose as advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid any medication that you know you have an allergy to, and check the reactions of the medication with any other medication you may be taking. If there are any side effects, discontinue immediately and contact your doctor.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is important when you have an upset stomach. Vomiting, diarrhea and sweating can quickly dehydrate the body, leading to an extended recovery period. One trick to making hydrating easier is to incorporate salts or electrolyte tablets into your liquids. This can help balance fluids and electrolytes in the body. Clear fluids such as water or soda without caffeine or alcohol, clear broths, diluted juice or sports drinks can help to keep the body hydrated. Dehydration can make an upset stomach significantly worse, so try to aim to drink fluids frequently and take small sips throughout the day.
Avoiding Triggers
There are a variety of common triggers that can cause an upset stomach. For instance, consuming high-fat or acidic foods can inflame the digestive system and lead to indigestion or heartburn. Eating too quickly or not chewing food properly can also cause undue stress on the digestive system, leading to discomfort. Avoiding triggers means that you will have to be more mindful of what you eat and how you eat them. It is crucial to keep track of what triggers your upset stomach and try to avoid those foods or eating patterns.
It is important to take note of any symptoms that are present when you consume specific foods or drinks, which can give you clues to the cause of the upset stomach. Avoid any spicy or fatty meals and reduce alcohol and caffeine intake. It is best to stick to low-fat, healthy and nutritious foods that can be comfortably digested when you have an upset stomach.
Prevention
Prevention is always the best cure for an upset stomach. Sometimes, you can’t avoid getting an upset stomach, but there are steps that you can take to reduce the likelihood of it happening. Eating slowly, chewing food carefully, and avoiding large meals before bedtime is ideal for people who suffer from frequent upset stomachs. There’s also a benefit to eating more fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water. Fiber keeps the digestive system moving, regular and hydrated making stool soft and easy to pass.
Conclusion
Dealing with an upset stomach can be challenging, but with a little patience and the use of these said remedies, anyone can get back to feeling their best again. Whether you try natural remedies, adjust your diet, take medication or hydrate frequently, it is important to find what works for you in the long term. With mindful attention to diet, eating habits, and lifestyle choices, you can prevent or reduce the severity of upset stomachs in the first place.
Everybody’s body is different, and the causes of upset stomachs vary, so it is important to approach this issue from different angles until you find the solution that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different remedies or discuss options with your doctor. In time, most people find their own unique path to a cure.
