Whether it is the nausea or the pain or just the general icky feeling, tummy troubles rob you of all your energy and leave you totally exhausted. Diarrhea can be very uncomfortable especially in the initial 24 to 48 hours. The most common cause of diarrhea is any virus or bacteria that infect your gut. It is a condition where bowel movements are loose and watery which can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. However, making the right food choices can definitely make you better. Here's a simple guide to what you should eat and avoid.
What to avoid?
You must start with avoiding certain foods that can worsen the situation. The top foods to avoid are all kinds of dairy products (except probiotics), tea, coffee, colas, fizzy drinks, non-vegetarian foods, packaged foods, heavy dals, fried foods, oils, dry foods with too much fiber, chickpeas, peanuts, fruit juices, cheese chips and wafers. (Lifestyle, Stress Leads to Rising Acidity in Youngsters)
What to eat?
Some foods that you can consume to soothe your stomach -
1. Electrolytes and Vitamin C: In the initial phase when the tummy is quite runny, it may help to sip electrolyte water with a pinch of salt. Also, you can consume a Vitamin C tablet or Vitamin C based lozenge. Electrolytes help in recovering the loss of water. Salt and Vitamin C lozenge will take care of the nauseous feel.
2. Coconut Water: Another excellent hydrating agent is coconut water. In case of runny tummy and cramps, coconut water can be quite soothing. Coconut water has an excellent electrolyte balance and is very therapeutic for the stomach.
3. Turmeric and Ginger: Once the motions are in control, the next step is to have something that will give you energy. Here, I recommend you go for a healthy vegetable soup with turmeric and ginger. Turmeric is an antiseptic for the stomach and ginger helps to relieve nausea and gas. (How to Reduce Bloating: 8 Tummy Shrinking Foods)
4. Peppermint Tea with Honey: Most people would notice that post diarrhea one feels very cold. Keep your body warm with a hot cup of peppermint tea with a bit of honey. Peppermint is an ancient herb that helps in reliving bloating, gas and stomach ache. Honey acts an antimicrobial. Do not add more than 1/3 teaspoon of honey because too much of it can have an opposite effect. (Health Tip: Best Food Combinations For a Balanced Diet)
5. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is also very relaxing and is known to settle an upset stomach. It helps in relieving flatulence, nausea and heartburn by sedating mucous membrane of the digestive tract.
6. Moong Dal: Moong dal is one of the easiest to digest. A light khichdi made with dal, rice, a pinch of turmeric and lots water can be very soothing for the stomach. It will help in boosting your energy levels. Moong dal contains many essential amino acids and carbohydrates which help in healing.
Advertisement