We have all struggled with those tough days, clutching our stomachs, and feeling miserable due to stomach pain. An upset stomach can be used as an umbrella term for a wide range of stomach-related problems, including constipation, diarrhea, cramps, nausea or bloating. Whatever be the cause, a stomach pain is enough to ruin your day! While facing one, eating something might just be the last thing the patient might consider, and reaching out to the nearest pain reliever might appear to be the easiest option, however, what the patient eats plays a major role in determining how long the pain will last and how severe it will be. If they consume the right foods, they might ease out the symptoms, soothe irritation and help their digestive system to rest and restart, while the wrong ones can further make things go worse. With all that advice pouring in from all sides regarding a healthy balanced diet, different fruits and vegetables, dalia etc, we know it can get rather confusing so as to know which foods the patient should actually have! In this article, we will discuss in detail about the different food items a patient can eat to ease out the symptoms, based on what is causing them.
Constipation:
Constipation is the condition when a person cannot have the bowel movements to clear the waste out of their digestive system. This almost always can go hand in hand with gas and bloating, because of the pressure that is built up in the stomach. In case of constipation, Fibre can prove to be the best friend of the patient. The soluble fibre present in various food items breaks down in the digestive tract and causes the stool to become softer, hence, helping in easy bowel movement. healthy nutrition diet that the patient can have during such times include:
- Vegetables including broccoli, green beans and carrots.
- Fruits such as berries, apples, and pears
- Quinoa and whole grains such as oatmeal, whole wheat bread, dalia etc.
Foods that are low in fibre, such as fast and processed foods, should be completely avoided in the cases of constipation.
Diarrhea:
If the cause of upset stomach or discomfort is diarrhea, it might be very difficult for the patient to think that eating anything might help the symptoms ease out. However, in such cases, BRAT diet is usually recommended. It involves the food items that are easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. This diet includes food items like:
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast
Even if diarrhea is being caused by food poisoning or flu, sticking to the BRAT diet for a couple of days or more might help relieve the symptoms. However, this diet should not be adopted for a longer time since the body needs different kinds of nutrients from a healthy balanced diet. On the other hand, foods like acidic fruits, alcohol, dairy products, and spicy or sugary foods can make the condition worse.
Nausea or Vomiting :
Nausea is a common condition which can be associated with various issues. If the patient is experiencing very frequent and longer nausea repeatedly, they must get help from their healthcare provider. However, even if it does not occur often and is not caused by something serious, it can still be frustrating! Sometimes it might be a better option to let the stomach rest, while during others, consuming ORS and other sources of hydration frequently might help. Sometimes, ginger can also prove to be greatly helpful in providing relief from the symptoms of nausea.
Cramps:
Stomach cramps can be a symptom of various issues such as menstruation, bowel problems etc. If a patient gets severe cramps every month before her periods, keeping a track of her periods and making specific changes or modifications to the diet might help. healthy balanced diet including food items such as beans, whole grains, prune juice, and other fruits might be highly beneficial in alleviating the pain. During such conditions, foods such as dairy products, fatty food items, processed food, and highly refined grains should be avoided.
Hence, it is quite clear that different reasons for an upset stomach have their own different set of food items that can help ease out the discomfort and pain. Making a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle modifications can dramatically reduce a person’s instances of stomach discomfort, and promote overall digestive health. In case of any doubts or if the symptoms occur more frequently, the patient should consider taking a consultation with their stomach doctor near me.
If you are looking for the best Gastroenterologist near me or Best stomach doctor in Mohali, you have just landed on the right page. Sohana hospital Mohali boasts of the world’s most advanced, cutting-edge technology and North India’s leading Gastroenterologists, who provide the most comprehensive and holistic care for all the GI ailments of the patients in the region, with the most patient-centric approach. Book your consultation today!