We all have an upset stomach from time to time. Be it from a bug or because we suffer from a health condition (like IBS), or maybe even just because we’re feeling a bit odd lately, having a tummy ache is absolutely normal. The problem is that we often don’t realize how much what we eat can influence how well it heals. Or how bad it gets. It’s not only that certain foods help with healing. It’s that, if we ingest the wrong foods, we might make it even worse.
The first thing to bear in mind is what will affect our condition. Foods that contain fats and fiber will only make the situation worse. What we want is to give our digestive system as little work as possible. Which is not the case is we give our stomach foods that are difficult to digest. We tell you what you should be eating when your tummy is not feeling happy.
1. Stay away from the whole-grains
If you have an upset stomach, the best thing you can eat is white breads and white rice. Leave the whole-grain, healthy stuff for when you’re feeling better. Stick to the whites because these have been processed, which basically means they don’t contain fiber anymore. And as we stated previously, we don’t want fiber when we’re feeling unwell.
Saltine crackers and pretzels are also a good option, as long as they’re not made from whole-grain. The salt in it acts as electrolytes which helps you if you’re dehydrated.
2. Water-based fruits and veggies
If you feel like eating fruits and veggies even though you’re feeling unwell, opt for the more watery ones. Watermelon and cucumber are great examples. These types of fruits/veggies contain lots of water and little fiber, which is the best if you’re trying to cure a tummy ache.
That being said, try to stay away from any other types of fruits or vegetables. These usually contain high amounts of fiber, which we’re actively trying to avoid. P.s. Do not, under any circumstance, ingest the pips. They are undigestible, so your body will try to get rid of it.
3. The other fruit you can eat…but only if it’s super ripe
Bananas are a go-to if your stomach is not okay. BUT ONLY is they’re brown. In fact, the browner the better. Unripe bananas contain starch that is harder to digest, so you better keep away from green bananas.
However, once they turn into browner fruits, the starches turn into sugars, which is no problem for your digestive system. Plus, if you’re having to go to the bathroom every 5 minutes, eating a banana can help you as it’s constipating. Which will keep you from paying the toilet a visit every 2 seconds.
4. Herbal teas
Though this one might not exactly be food, it can help amazingly if you’re not feeling like eating anything but still want something to sooth your stomach. You can choose your tea depending on the effects you wish to feel. Feeling nauseated? Try to have some ginger tea. Pain and/or diarrhea? Opt for some peppermint tea. Chamomile tea is simply soothing, and fennel tea can help with pain and discomfort. It’s up to you, any herbal tea is fine, really.
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