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It’s normal to experience stomachaches every now and then. Something as simple as overeating can cause an upset stomach. Pain in this region tends to leave people nauseated and hunched over with little to no appetite.

A stomachache often disappears on its own after a while. But there are several home remedies you can use to speed up the natural healing process and lessen the occurrence of stomachaches. Here are some of them:

Apple cider vinegar

ACV contains good bacteria that help jumpstart digestion and metabolism. It also helps regulate the levels of stomach acids that break down food. By supporting digestion, ACV prevents bloating, a common cause of stomachache. To relieve stomachaches, combine two tablespoons of ACV and two cups of warm water. Add a pinch of baking soda and drink the solution.

Massage

Sometimes, you might just need an abdominal massage to move things along inside the gut. With your forefinger and middle finger, gently massage the stomach in a clockwise motion to ease tense muscles and relieve potential blockages inside the gastrointestinal tract.

Breathing exercises

Just as a lack of beneficial gut bacteria can upset the stomach, so can stress. To ease stress fast, practice breathing exercises. Take a moment to slowly breathe through the nose. Focus on the act of breathing and shut out distractions until you minimize or eliminate the stomachache.

Water

Dehydration can lead to hard stools that are difficult to pass. It can also trigger cramps along the gastrointestinal tract. Remember to drink at least two liters or eight glasses of water each day to stay hydrated and loosen up blockages in the intestines.

Digestive enzyme supplements

The gut requires at least three enzymes to break down food: lipase for fats, amylase for carbohydrates and protease for proteins. If you don’t get enough of these enzymes from foods, you’re more at risk of stomachaches and abdominal cramps. Take digestive enzyme supplements to boost digestion and ease stomachaches.

Ginger

Ginger is a popular go-to natural treatment for digestive issues like cramps, bloating and indigestion thanks to its bioactive compounds. To treat a stomachache, chew on a fresh piece of ginger for a few minutes. Drink ginger tea if you can’t stand the taste of raw ginger.

Aloe vera juice

Aloe vera juice is a thick, mucus-like solution made from the flesh of the aloe vera plant. Its amino acids, antioxidants and enzymes can help soothe the cells that line the gastrointestinal tract. To relieve an upset stomach fast, drink pure aloe vera juice.

Bone broth

Bone broth is a rich, cloudy liquid made by boiling animal bones and connective tissues. It is hailed for its protective effects against cell damage thanks to its high collagen and gelatin content. To treat a stomachache, drink one cup of warm bone broth and take a few deep breaths.

Peppermint essential oil

Menthol, the active plant compound in peppermint, has incredible soothing properties that can help restore digestive health. Although you can use fresh peppermint, peppermint essential oil is much more concentrated. Mix a few drops of this oil into with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Rub the mixture along the abdomen and complement it with a gentle massage.

Lemon-infused water

The natural acidity of lemon helps the gut digest food better and break down possible buildups along the gastrointestinal tract. However, lemon is too strong on its own and it might even worsen the stomachache. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of water and drink this solution to relieve stomach pain.

Rest

If all else fails, lie down for 30 minutes or so. Pushing through with whatever it is you are doing despite a stomachache might make it worse. Some remedies also require a few minutes to kick in. Resting also gives your body ample time to heal itself. You can also complement rest with breathing exercises, a gentle abdominal massage or a cup of herbal tea.

Fiber-rich foods

Fiber is an important macronutrient that helps maintain digestive health and wellness. Often, common digestive problems like indigestion, bloating and constipation are caused by a lack of fiber. Eat fiber-rich foods like whole grains, nuts and seeds to treat stomachache and minimize its occurrence in the future.

Although there are various causes of stomachache, it is often due to poor nutrition. If you tend to experience pain in this region, it might be a good idea to keep track of the foods you eat. Over time, this method of record-keeping might help you recognize specific foods that trigger an upset stomach so you can avoid them in the future.

Read more articles about healing foods and remedies for stomachache on Remedies.news.

Sources:

LifeHack.org

Healthline.com