10 Best foods to cure your stomachache

Tummy Trouble: 10 Best foods to cure your stomachache

Lim Han

19 May 2017

1/10
Bananas
Now we know why monkeys are such ardent fan of these yellow fruits. Not only are bananas easily digestible, they are also packed with potassium, which comes in handy if you’re feeling dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhoea. Also, while they contain natural sugars which will elevate your blood glucose levels, their sweet taste isn’t too cloying, such that they’ll trigger nausea. But, remember to go easy on the peanut butter.
2/10
Coconut water
The staple drink of every health-lover, coconut water is truly a magical drink. Their refreshing and light taste aside, it brags of natural sugars to bolster your calorie intake, which is especially important if you’ve been a victim of vomiting and diarrhoea. Their high levels of electrolytes, such as potassium, would also be beneficial in boosting your body’s energy.
3/10
Papaya
Buttery, sweet and juice, papaya is the dream fruit to eat, stomachache or not. This fruit is rich in proteolytic enzymes which facilitate the digestive process, quelling nausea and bloating. Some of these enzymes, papain and chymopapain, aid in breaking down proteins and provide a healthy acidic environment for easier digestion. Don’t eat too much of these, though, you may risk turning orange! (Trust us, we’re not kidding.)
4/10
Peppermint
If you've been vomiting the whole day and your breath reeks, kill two birds with one stone by turning to peppermint leaves, which will alleviate your bloating and freshen your breath at the same time. Peppermint is chockfull of menthol, which induces the secretion of bile, a fluid that promotes digestion. In addition, it is an effectual antispasmodic, which helps to calm digestive muscles. Add some freshly torn peppermint leaves to a glass of boiling hot water and sip away! But, be wary of overdoing it as excessive peppermint intake could engender heartburn
5/10
Starchy carbs
Woah, aren’t those foods too heavy for your distressed stomach? Actually, no. Bland starchy foods like rice, potatoes and bread are highly digestible, so don’t they add a heavy burden to your stomach. Did you know that they also coat the lining of your stomach? This eases digestion of other foods and soothes your intestinal tract. Not to mention, they don’t spark off acid reflux, which could make you feel worse than you already are.
6/10
Ginger
Hailed as a potent remedy for upset stomachs and nausea since ancient times, ginger is your go-to spice when your stomach is not in tip-top condition. Its anti-inflammatory properties diminishes inflammation-caused stomachaches while its anti-oxidant properties reduces free radical damage on the body. Since it’s taste is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea, you can add lemon slices or honey to ease its strong taste in your ginger tea.
7/10
Applesauce
Why eat apples when you can drink ‘em? Applesauce is not only lip-smackingly delicious, it’s also a piece of cake for your stomach to digest. Its high pectin content promises a load of dietary fibre, which would be just what you need if you’re feeling constipated. Not to mention, it contains sugar which will provide you with the necessary calories.
8/10
Herbal tea
Herbal teas aren’t the most delicious, but they definitely do the job. Different herbal teas have varying effects, but one of the most popular ones is chamomile tea, which is known to reduce inflammation. Not to mention, its calming properties may put you right to sleep despite your stomach discomfort. Be sure to pick caffeine-free ones, as caffeine can trigger acid reflux.
9/10
gettyimages-142547270
Sorry, folks, you’ll have to give up your clam chowder and cream of mushroom soups for now. In the meantime, you'll have to stick to plain broths and soups. These liquidy dishes are a dream for your stomach as they are easily digestible. Also, they keep you well-hydrated, especially if vomiting and diarrhoea have become your new companions for the day. Try out chicken or vegetable soups to keep things exciting for your palette.
10/10
Yoghurt
Yes, we know. We’re going against all doctors’ advice to stay away from dairy when your stomach is in bad shape. But, while most dairy products can greatly upset your stomach, plain natural yoghurt may actually do the opposite. Its active cultures help to increase the population of good bacteria in your stomach, which encourages digestion and reduces bloating.

Got an upset tummy? These 10 foods are bound to cheer it up!

Fevers and flus are a pain to go through, no doubt. But, quite nothing can champion stomach issues in the discomfort department. Whether its indigestion, vomiting or bloating, it’s safe to say that when you’re stomach is in a bad mood, your entire body is in for a heinous wild ride. You can’t stand without feeling the urge to curl up into a ball, but you can’t lie down either, without having your stomach gurgle and cramp up.

Instead of just wallowing in abysmal discomfort and waiting for the storm to pass, you can take action to alleviate your suffering. There are plentiful foods out there that possess healing properties for your stomach, from papaya to herbal teas. With these home remedies by your side, indigestion and nausea will be the least of your problems.

What are you waiting for? Dive into our gallery where a trove of 10 tummy-loving foods awaits!

Lim Han

Photos: Getty Images

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