Everyone knows that eating certain types of foods can cause an upset stomach. For people with a sensitive stomach, this is especially true. They have learned to avoid spicy foods and perhaps high-fat foods, knowing that these will cause their tummy to start feeling badly. However, many people do not realize that there are certain foods that you can eat to avoid getting an upset stomach.
Some of the best foods for an upset stomach are not actually foods, they are beverages. Drinking enough liquids, especially water, will keep you hydrated. Dehydration can lead to an upset stomach; to avoid getting an upset stomach, you need to make sure you’re drinking enough liquids. Whenever possible, you should drink clear and cold liquids such as water or soda pops that are clear of colorings and caffeine.
Mint and ginger are both known to have a soothing effect on an upset stomach. Many people have had success with a variety of types of peppermint teas, for example. If tea isn’t your thing, you can mix some peppermint oil into a drink of juice or lemonade. You can get ginger in a variety of ways, such as ginger tea or ginger root supplements. Ginger is especially effective if your upset stomach is due to morning sickness or to travel sickness.
In terms of actual foods, there are several foods that may help you to avoid getting an upset stomach. There is, of course, the old BRAT diet – bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast – that is recommended for an upset stomach. However, in addition to these, you might try crackers, yogurt, skinned baked or broiled chicken (never fried chicken), soft fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, angel food cake, pretzels, and sherbet. Avoid foods that are greasy, fried, or fatty, foods that are extremely spicy or sweet, and foods with strong smells.
Ultimately, you will have to go through a process of trial-and-error to help determine which foods will best help you to avoid getting an upset stomach. If you have a chronic or severe upset stomach, it can indicate another type of a problem, and you should discuss this with your health care provider.