Even while having an occasional upset stomach might be annoying and uncomfortable, there are ways to manage your discomfort at home without visiting a doctor. For heartburn-related stomach pain, taking an antacid and drinking water may be helpful; for diarrhea-related stomach pain, consuming sports drinks may be helpful. However, not every stomach issue is the same. Find out which home cures for upset stomach are effective, which are just urban legends, and when to visit a doctor.

 

What Immediately Calms An Upset Stomach?

The easiest natural cures for a tummy ache are heating pads, ginger, and peppermint oil. The most effective over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for upset stomachs are Maalox, TUMS and Rolaids calcium carbonate antacids, and Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

 

Some Effective Ways To Settle An Upset Stomach

What's causing your upset stomach will determine the best home treatment for it. In some situations, such as after consuming a greasy, spicy meal that you don't typically eat, this might be more apparent. The following natural therapies could provide some comfort, even for less evident causes.

 

The BRAT Diet

The words bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are abbreviated as BRAT. When you have an upset stomach, eating modest amounts of these bland foods can help you feel better. The BRAT diet is easy on the stomach and can help firm up loose stools. When you have upset stomach or digestive issues, these foods are easy to digest and offer the nutrients you need:


Bananas are rich in antioxidants, potassium, and fiber. One advantage of bananas is that they can aid in the relief of diarrhea and constipation. The starch in plain rice makes it easy to digest and helps coat the stomach. Applesauce has anti-inflammatory properties, is high in vitamin C, is hydrating, and may improve intestinal health. Carbohydrates are readily absorbed by the body from toast.

 

Ginger

Spices like ginger are quite adaptable and can be used to treat many different kinds of illnesses, including digestive problems. It is also advised for expectant mothers to alleviate morning sickness. Ginger contains inherent anti-inflammatory qualities that can help calm the stomach.

Ginger can be consumed in a number of ways, including:

  • Consuming ginger tea or natural ginger ale as long as the ingredients list real ginger.
  • Consuming ginger sweets or sucking on them
  • Garnish your food with grated fresh ginger root or powder.
  • Using supplements containing ginger

 

Peppermint

Studies have demonstrated that peppermint oil helps reduce gas and upset stomach symptoms in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, peppermint's methyl salicylate and menthol can lessen nausea's effects.


Peppermint oil, either in the form of peppermint tea or capsules, can help calm the stomach and relieve bloating and gas. Additionally, peppermint helps break down food, which helps ease constipation-related stomach pain. The aroma of peppermint also aids in the treatment of morning sickness.

You can take a supplement containing peppermint oil or consume or suck on peppermint candies to help soothe an upset stomach.

 

Hydration

It's critical that you consume adequate liquids. Maintaining adequate hydration can help reduce stomach pain as dehydration can exacerbate it. Additionally, it facilitates digestion and softens stool, which eases constipation-related discomfort and facilitates bowel movements. Drinking clear liquids to stay hydrated and flush out pollutants, such as water, herbal teas, or electrolyte solutions. Sports drinks that include electrolytes are another excellent source of rehydration for your body.

 

The Use of Probiotics

Probiotics are a class of beneficial microorganisms that can help with digestion and support a strong immune system. Probiotics can be found in dairy products, yogurt, and other meals that contain cultured milk.

Apple cider vinegar is one example of a fermented liquid that contains probiotics. Additionally, you can take probiotic supplements. In situations where an infection is the cause of the upset stomach, probiotics can also be helpful in reducing symptoms of indigestion and upset stomach.

 

A Heating Pad

Any strained stomach muscles that are contributing to an upset stomach can be eased by applying heat from a heating pad or a warm compress. Usually, this type of treatment is recommended for IBS-related cramps as well as monthly cramps.

 

View More: The Best Tea for Stomach Ulcers


Licorice

In addition, Licorice as a home treatment for easing gastrointestinal discomfort. Because natural licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, it can assist with stomach pain associated with digestion problems and acid reflux. Licorice tea is a beverage that can be consumed, as well as extracts and capsules. Natural licorice products may be unsafe for expectant mothers to use because of potential risks to the growing fetus.

 

Take a Nap

Resting may help relieve your stomach pain whether it is brought on by a chronic sickness or the things you eat. Getting enough sleep and relaxing can help the healing process, especially if stress is a contributing factor.

 

Ineffective Natural Cures For Upset Stomach

If you're experiencing stomach distress, exercise caution when following advice on how to ease it. Certain things are only myths that might have helped certain individuals but aren't actual treatments.


Flat Soda

For those who struggle to stay hydrated, flat soda can assist. Carbonated soda, on the other hand, can bloat the stomach and induce acid reflux. But that doesn't imply it's an easy remedy. Caffeine-containing sodas, for instance, can exacerbate nausea and dehydration. Better possibilities are electrolyte-fortified sports drinks and water.


Turmeric

One member of the ginger family of spices with a bitter flavor is turmeric. There is not much evidence to support the benefits of turmeric, despite the fact that people occasionally take it to heal upset stomachs.


Aloe Vera Juice

The gel of an aloe vera plant is combined with water to make aloe vera juice. Not much study backs up the claim that it soothes stomach pain, despite the fact that it is frequently claimed to help with digestive problems. Aloe vera juice can also result in diarrhea, which dehydrates the stomach and causes pain and cramps.

 

When To Visit A Doctor If You Have A Stomach Ache?

An upset stomach can occasionally be a red flag for a more serious condition. It is recommended to seek medical assistance to address the underlying reasons of persistent stomach troubles.

If you have intense abdominal discomfort and any of the following symptoms, arrange for a ride to the emergency room or urgent care center:

  • Fever
  • Bloody stools
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Weight loss
  • Skin that looks discolored
  • Severe tenderness upon touching the abdomen

Make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner if your stomach pain persists for many days or if it is causing you concern.

 

Conclusion

While dealing with an upset stomach can be uncomfortable, there are effective home remedies to manage the discomfort without visiting a doctor. For heartburn-related pain, antacids and water can help, while sports drinks may be beneficial for diarrhea-related pain. However, it's essential to understand that not all stomach issues are the same. Differentiate between effective home cures, myths, and when it's necessary to seek medical attention.

 

Please book an appointment with the best Gastroenterologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.