Stomach problems can be caused by anything from eating too much to lactose intolerance. In some cases stomach upsets can be mild and in others more severe. Whether you are having a random episode or have chronic digestive conditions, you should always have foods for an upset stomach handy to remedy your symptoms.
Causes of an Upset Stomach
Sources of stomach aches can be classified as food, lifestyle and medical causes. When your stomach upsets are caused by food, it usually means that what you ate or drank is contaminated with bacteria or parasites. Another reason might be that you simply ate too much and your body is trying hard to process the food. Eating spicy or greasy food can lead to indigestion as well.
Lifestyle causes include eating on the go, stress, smoking and excessive alcohol intake. If you have recurring problems with your stomach, you might have medical digestive conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, ulcers, constipation and lactose intolerance. For those with chronic conditions, it is advisable to make foods for an upset stomach a part of daily diet.
Foods for an Upset Stomach
Foods for an upset stomach are those that can help relieve the symptoms of digestive problems. These foods should not only be consumed when the stomach becomes upset. They can also be incorporated into your diet to prevent future issues.
Bananas:
Bananas are one of the most recommended foods for an upset stomach because of how easy they are to digest. Because they are so gentle on your digestive system, they are often eaten by professional athletes to keep their stomachs in check. They also contain a substance called pectin that is capable of firming up loose stools.
Papaya:
Papayas not only soothe disturbed stomachs, but can also facilitate digestion. This is the perfect food to eat if you feel constipated. It contains enzymes that acidify your stomach to aid digestion.
White foods:
White rice, bread and potatoes are often overlooked but they can be very effective foods for an upset stomach. Because these foods can contain a high number of carbohydrates, they should be limited in your diet. They are ideal for temporary relief, but for a long term solution, opt for brown rice, whole-grain bread and sweet potatoes instead.
Apples and apple sauce:
Apples have the same benefits as bananas. They are the perfect remedy for diarrhea because they help harden loose bowel movements. Apple sauce is sometimes preferred over hard apples because they are cooked and therefore easier to digest.
Tea:
Herbal teas are generally great for solving stomach ache. However, two types in particular are the most effective. Chamomile and peppermint teas are foods for an upset stomach that people with IBS, nausea, constipation and diarrhea should definitely add to their kitchen cupboard.
Other great foods for an upset stomach include soup, ginger and crackers. Home remedies like salty broths and yoghurt should be consumed with caution. Dairy might have the opposite effect for lactose intolerance people. Salty broths contain a high sodium content that might be dangerous for those with high blood pressure.
Stomach aches can range from being inconvenient to downright crippling. You might not always know the cause of the stomach upset. However, if your problem is persistent, it is wise to let your doctor rule out digestive conditions. Whether stomach aches are occasional or chronic, keep a cupboard full of foods for an upset stomach for when you need them.
Foods for an upset stomach can only help in a limited way. It is still best to consult your doctor.
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