Stomach disorders are the most common and most frustrating disorders. It causes a lot of discomfort and other problems such as diarrhea, dehydration, vomiting, food poisoning, fever, cramps etc. There is no permanent cure for an upset stomach but some home remedies can be very useful and provide relief from the worst symptoms.
An upset stomach can be due to gastrointestinal problems. A person can contract viruses through other people and in conditions of bad hygiene. Some bacteria also lead to gastroenteritis. Eating habits affect the body in certain ways. We eat certain foods without worrying much about how our body will react to it. Irregular eating pattern, and overeating can spoil the stomach to a serious extent. Junk food and food that is not fresh or has been uncovered for long can cause serious stomach infections.
Too much consumption of alcohol, excessive smoking and lack of exercise are other common causes of an upset stomach. People with a sedentary lifestyle are the most vulnerable to stomach related problems. Lack of water consumption also affects the stomach. Upset stomach can be caused by eating very hot or very cold food and by eating non seasonal fruits and vegetables. Excessive consumption of carbonated drinks, sweetened drinks, juices with artificial flavors and eating too much sweets and candies can also upset the stomach.
HOME REMEDIES FOR AN UPSET STOMACH
An upset stomach can be easily taken care of at home. Some of the easiest and convenient home remedies are as follows:
1. Ginger
Ginger is one of the oldest ingredients to be used as a home remedy for an upset stomach. Its high antifungal and antibacterial properties give a soothing effect to the stomach and relieve the pain. It also helps in reducing loose motions and intestinal infections. Half a teaspoon of ginger juice mixed with butter milk can be consumed three to four times in a day for three four days to treat the problem. Asafetida can also be added for a better effect. You can also boil a few pieces of ginger in water and drink it directly once it has cooled down. Consuming ginger tea is also a great option. People with high blood pressure should not consume ginger.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider is also at the top when it comes to home remedies for stomach related problems. It has high pectin concentration that treats an irritated stomach and relieves of nausea. Its acidic properties also give a soothing effect to the stomach. It can be consumed by mixing a teaspoon with a glass of water. For a better taste a little bit of honey can also be added and consumed with every meal. Also, its acidic nature helps get things moving in a normal pattern.
3. Yogurt
This is the best home remedy and is most effective too. However for people with a delicate stomach this isn’t an option. Yogurt is a great ingredient to treat indigestion, constipation and gas. It contains live bacteria that help in maintaining the balance of good bacteria in the intestines. This further helps in healing of the stomach and the whole body. Eating 2 to 3 cups of yogurt will be relieving. You can add some salt, pepper, oregano or cumin seeds for a better taste. Consumption of yogurt on a regular basis prevents a lot of digestive disorders.
4. Mint
An aromatic herb, mint has been there since ages in several households to treat many health issues. It is a great option to treat indigestion and nausea. It can be added to a lot of drinks, water, tea etc. One can chew it directly also for a better effect. It has antibacterial and antispasmodic properties. It also contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that stimulates the digestive system as a whole. The juice of mint leaves can be mixed with honey and lemon and consumed two times in a day for 2 to 3 days which will calm the stomach.
6. Fenugreek Seeds
They are an excellent source for fighting gastritis due to the presence of a high amount of mucilage that improves the stool. It can be taken in a powdered form with yogurt twice or thrice a day. It can also be taken with just water.
7. Cumin seeds
A popular Asian spice, this is useful in treating muscle contractions of the stomach and aids digestion by balancing the secretions of enzyme. It can be eaten raw or powdered with water. Half a tablespoon of powdered cumin with water every day for 3 to 4 days would be highly effective.
9. Cinnamon
One of the tastiest spices, Cinnamon can treat gastrointestinal problems and upset stomach because of its carminative properties that stimulates the digestive system. It can be mixed in tea or with a cup of lukewarm or hot water.