How Do I Avoid Getting an Upset Stomach After Eating?

Many people who suffer regularly from an upset stomach find out that even just eating something small or bland can make their belly hurt. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to avoid getting an upset stomach after eating.

The first thing to know to avoid getting an upset stomach after eating is knowing what not to eat. 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.

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.

Another way to avoid getting an upset stomach after eating is to be sure to keep hydrated. Dehydration is a leading cause of upset stomach. 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. If you get an upset stomach after eating, you might try having some ginger tea or peppermint tea with your meal, or even chewing a peppermint candy after you eat. 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.

Ultimately, you will have to go through a process of trial-and-error to help determine what method best helps you avoid getting an upset stomach after eating. 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.