Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a gastroenterologist. I'm here to provide you with some advice on foods that are good for an upset stomach.

An upset stomach, also known as indigestion or dyspepsia, is a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and heartburn. The cause of an upset stomach can vary, but it is often related to dietary indiscretions, stress, or certain medical conditions.

When your stomach is upset, it's important to choose foods that are easy to digest and won't irritate your digestive system. Here are some foods that are generally considered to be good for an upset stomach:

1. Bland Foods:

* Toast: White toast is a simple carbohydrate that is easy to digest and can help to absorb excess stomach acid. It's a good choice for a light breakfast or snack.
* Crackers: Similar to toast, plain crackers are low in fiber and easy to digest. Choose plain varieties without added salt or flavorings.
* Rice: White rice is another bland food that is easy on the stomach. It's a good source of carbohydrates and can help to settle your stomach.
* Bananas: Bananas are high in potassium, which can help to replenish electrolytes lost through vomiting. They are also a good source of pectin, a soluble fiber that can help to regulate bowel movements.
* Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce is a good source of pectin and is also low in fiber, making it easy to digest.
* Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth can help to rehydrate you and provide electrolytes. You can add a little bit of salt to the broth to help replenish electrolytes lost through vomiting.

2. Hydration:

* Water: Staying hydrated is essential when you have an upset stomach. Drinking plenty of water helps to prevent dehydration, which can worsen your symptoms.
* Electrolyte Drinks: If you're experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, you may need to replenish lost electrolytes. Electrolyte drinks, such as Pedialyte or Gatorade, can help to rehydrate you and replace lost minerals.

3. Probiotics:

* Yogurt: Yogurt that contains live and active cultures can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut. Choose plain yogurt and avoid varieties with added sugar or fruit.
* Kefir: Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains probiotics. It's a good source of calcium and protein and can help to improve digestive health.

4. Other Foods:

* Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a good source of soluble fiber, which can help to regulate bowel movements. Choose plain oatmeal and avoid varieties with added sugar or flavorings.
* Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin A, which can help to support a healthy immune system. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate bowel movements.
* Ginger: Ginger has been traditionally used to help relieve nausea and vomiting. You can add ginger to your food or drink ginger tea.
* Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has soothing properties and can help to relax the stomach muscles. It can also help to relieve bloating and gas.

Foods to Avoid:

* Fatty Foods: Fatty foods can take longer to digest and can worsen indigestion.
* Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and cause heartburn.
* Acidic Foods: Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, can aggravate heartburn.
* Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate the stomach and worsen indigestion.
* Caffeine: Caffeine can stimulate the stomach and cause heartburn.
* Dairy Products: Some people find that dairy products can worsen their symptoms. If you are lactose intolerant, you should avoid dairy products.
* Processed Foods: Processed foods can be difficult to digest and can contribute to indigestion.
* Sugary Drinks: Sugary drinks can worsen symptoms of indigestion and can also lead to weight gain.
* Raw Vegetables: Raw vegetables can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms of indigestion.

When to See a Doctor:

While most cases of an upset stomach can be managed at home, it's important to see a doctor if your symptoms are severe or persistent. You should also see a doctor if you experience any of the following:

* Fever
* Blood in your stool
* Severe abdominal pain
* Persistent vomiting
* Unexplained weight loss
* Difficulty swallowing

It's important to remember that everyone's digestive system is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have any concerns about what to eat when you have an upset stomach, it's best to talk to your doctor. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your individual needs.

**In addition to dietary changes, there are other things you can do to help relieve an upset stomach:**

* Get plenty of rest: This will help your body to heal.
* Avoid stress: Stress can worsen indigestion.
* Elevate your head: This can help to prevent acid reflux.
* **Take over-the-counter...read more >>

Here are my top foods to ease an upset stomach:Bananas.Ginger. If you are vomiting or have bad nausea, have some fresh ginger! ... Papaya. Another great fruit to eat when you are feeling nauseous or unwell is papaya (or as we sometimes call it in Australia, paw paw). ... Mint. ... Yoghurt. ... Bland Foods Like Rice, Potatoes & Toast.read more >>