5 Natural Remedies for an Upset Stomach

Having an upset stomach or indigestion can be frustrating. But it’s something that everyone experiences at one time or another.

There are certain foods and drinks that can irritate the stomach. Usually, an upset stomach is not a cause for concern. But if you find it isn’t going away, it may be wise to touch base with your doctor.

The next time you have an upset stomach, you can take steps to relieve the discomfort! The natural treatments discussed below can ease your gurgling belly.

1. Drink Water

Your body uses water to absorb and digest nutrients from beverages and food efficiently. If you are dehydrated, the digestion process is less efficient. This can give you an upset stomach.

How much water should you drink every day? It is generally recommended that women have 91 ounces, or 2.7 liters, of water a day. Men should drink about 3.7 liters, or 125 ounces, of water each day.

Did you know a fifth of the water you consume comes from the food you eat? The rest is from the beverages that you drink. So a good goal to shoot for is to drink eight cups of water each day. That way, you know you’re staying well hydrated!

Staying hydrated is especially important if you have digestive issues. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration quickly. You must keep drinking water to replace the nutrients you lose from being sick.

Similarly, water cleanses the system. If you’re sick, it’s best to sip on water, though. You want your body to hold onto the water instead of getting rid of it.

2. Consume Ginger

If you have a stomach ache or nausea, you may have heard that ginger can help. Specifically, eating a piece of ginger or drinking ginger tea calms the stomach.

The advice you’ve heard is accurate. Ginger is fantastic for improving your digestive system. In addition, ginger is a great spice to have in your pantry. It is full of powerful antioxidants. It may also reduce heart and lung disease risk and fight against oxidative stress.

Ginger can speed up the movement of food through your gastrointestinal tract. It also simultaneously protects your gut. Ginger can help ease gas, cramping, and bloating.

Many people experience bloating after they eat. Ginger can ease your discomfort, whether from food intolerance or overeating. If you are prone to indigestion, you may want to add some ginger to your morning coffee or tea. This could help prevent indigestion during the day.

3. Medical Marijuana

Whether you are dealing with diarrhea or constipation, medical marijuana may be able to help with your stomach problems. Cannabis affects your endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a group of chemical compounds (endocannabinoids) and cell receptors present throughout your body.

Your endocannabinoid system handles many things. For example, it’s in charge of your mood, gastrointestinal mobility, stress response, pain, and appetite.

Research suggests that people who are deficient in endocannabinoids may have stomach issues. Specifically, the deficiency may lead to inflammation, digestive issues, and stomach problems.

Some individuals with stomach and digestive issues have found that cannabis can help. They find it significantly reduces abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion.

Certain strains can help more than others. So, do some research on the best marijuana strains for nausea.

Using medical cannabis to increase endocannabinoids may result in improved digestion. And thus, you may experience fewer cases of gastrointestinal problems.

4. BRAT Diet

Some doctors recommend that individuals with indigestion and diarrhea use the BRAT diet. A BRAT diet is effective at easing common stomach issues.

The BRAT diet consists of eating bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These starchy items help bind foods together. When food binds together, it relieves diarrhea and other stomach issues.

The foods in this diet are bland and don’t irritate your intestines. This diet can also calm tissue irritation resulting from the acid in vomit. The food groups are high in magnesium and potassium, making them excellent for your health.

It’s vital to replace the nutrients you lose from vomiting and diarrhea.

5. Lemon Juice, Water, and Baking Soda

Studies show that mixing baking soda with lemon juice and water can relieve digestive complaints. This mixture creates a carbonic acid that reduces gas and indigestion.

It may also increase intestinal motility and liver secretion. The nutrients and acids in lemon juice make it easier to absorb fats. At the same time, it also neutralizes bile acids and reduces your stomach’s acidity.

Take Steps to Protect Your Stomach

If you are experiencing ongoing indigestion and stomach problems, don’t ignore them. Instead, talk to a doctor or specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, to see what’s going on.

However, the above-mentioned natural cures could be precisely what you need. These natural remedies are often effective for minor indigestion and stomach problems.