How to Treat an Upset Stomach

It is necessary to find out what has caused your stomach upset before starting the treatment. There are several causes of a stomach upset. It could be diarrhea, food poisoning or indigestion.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea could be accompanied by stomach upset and high fever. It is necessary to withhold food for 24 hours if you have an upset stomach due to diarrhea. Bananas with yogurt are a very good remedy for diarrhea. Milk products should be avoided as it tends to aggravate the condition. In such cases Indian gooseberry with lemon juice and sugar is a very good remedy. Ginger added to boiling water and baked can be taken at one hour intervals will help to cure diarrhea. At times it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Food Poisoning

Food with bacteria, viruses and parasites cause food poisoning. The symptoms of food poisoning are stomach ache and stomach cramps, vomiting, dehydration and diarrhea.

It is necessary to drink water right through the day. Take only soft foods like rice bananas and apple sauce which can be digested easily. Alcohol and coffee have to be avoided. It is recommended that you drink electrolyte solutions right through the day. This helps to counter the loss of body fluids. Ginger is a very good remedy for food poisoning. Ginger juice can be consumed with water. Ginger juice with lemon is also a very good remedy.

Indigestion

Indigestion could cause a stomach upset. Indigestion could be due to poor eating habits, anxiety, stress, drinking or cigarette smoking. Processed and fatty foods can also cause indigestion. Pregnant women are more prone to indigestion. This could be due to levels of female hormone, estrogen and progesterone. Some of the symptoms of indigestion are discomfort in the upper abdominal area, decreased appetite, stomach pain and heartburn. It is better to consult a doctor if the symptoms persist. Some of the tips to get rid of indigestion are

Consume foods rich in fiber. Avoid processed foods and eat a healthy diet.

Reduce smoking and consumption of alcohol

Eat food at regular intervals

Try to avoid and reduce stress

Drink ginger juice and lemon juice added to water

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is also known as stomach flu. It is caused by inflammation of the mucus membranes of the intestines and stomach. It is due to viral infection. The symptoms of the disease are body ache, vomiting, tiredness and diarrhea. It is highly contagious. It is essential to keep the patient hydrated with plenty of water, juice and electrolyte drinks. It is better to consult a doctor if you have gastroenteritis.

Gastritis

Gastritis causes irritation and inflammation of the of the stomach lining. Severe iron deficiency is a known cause of gastritis. The infection of the stomach lining may result in indigestion and other physical disorders. Gastritis could also be chronic. It may also lead to ulcers if not treated properly.

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