Hello, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a gastroenterologist with over 20 years of experience in treating digestive disorders. I understand that an upset stomach can be a very uncomfortable experience, and I'm here to help you understand how to settle your stomach and get back to feeling your best.

First, it's important to identify the cause of your upset stomach. Common culprits include:

* Food poisoning: This is usually caused by consuming food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.
* Gastroenteritis: Also known as the stomach flu, this is a viral infection that can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.
* Indigestion: This occurs when food doesn't digest properly, often due to overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming fatty or spicy foods. Symptoms include bloating, gas, belching, and heartburn.
* Stress: Stress can trigger physical changes in your body, including increased stomach acid production, which can lead to an upset stomach. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
* Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can cause digestive upset as a side effect.
* Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.

Once you've identified the cause of your upset stomach, you can start taking steps to settle it. Here are some general tips:

* Rest: Give your body time to recover by getting plenty of rest.
* Hydrate: It's crucial to stay hydrated, especially if you're experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Drink plenty of clear fluids like water, broth, or electrolyte drinks. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol.
* Eat bland foods: Stick to bland foods that are easy to digest, such as toast, crackers, rice, and bananas. Avoid greasy, spicy, or acidic foods.
* Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can irritate your stomach and worsen symptoms.
* Over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter medications like Pepto-Bismol or Tums can help reduce stomach acid and soothe an upset stomach. Antidiarrheal medications like Imodium can help control diarrhea.

For specific causes of an upset stomach, here are some additional tips:

* Food poisoning: If you suspect food poisoning, it's important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if your symptoms are severe.
* Gastroenteritis: Similar to food poisoning, staying hydrated and resting are key. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms.
* Indigestion: Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid fatty or spicy foods.
* Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
* Medications: If you think a medication is causing your upset stomach, talk to your doctor about alternative options.
* IBS: Managing IBS requires a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and sometimes medication.

If your upset stomach is severe or persists for more than a few days, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.

Remember, settling your stomach involves identifying the cause, making appropriate lifestyle changes, and seeking medical attention if needed. By following these tips, you can effectively manage your symptoms and feel better soon.

read more >>

To settle an upset stomach or stop diarrhea, make a rice "tea." Boil 1/2 cup of rice in six cups of water for about 15 minutes. Strain out the rice, then flavor the water with a dash of honey or sugar and drink warm. Try these 11 other home remedies for diarrhea.read more >>