Eat these foods to relieve gastric pain

One of the most common causes of stomach pain is caused by excessive acid in the stomach. Known as gastric pain, it can vary from a mild ache to a severe, throbbing sensation in the upper stomach area. Some of its other symptoms include bloating, indigestion, feeling hungry but not being able to eat much before feeling full again, nausea or vomiting.

The main reasons behind gastric pain include gulping down meals at a rapid pace, intake of high amounts of aerated drinks and oily junk foods, consuming dishes with elevated levels of starch and insoluble fibres as well as imbalance in the healthy gut microbiome, which aid in digestion.

Eating certain foods, and avoiding others, can help people manage their symptoms of gastric pain. Here is a look at 7 foods to eat to relieve gastric pain.

Yoghurt is an excellent source of good bacteria and aids in digestion. Yoghurt can also be mixed with water for a light and refreshing drink. Add roasted cumin and black salt for best results. Alternatively, it can be made into a smoothie combined with an apple.

Herbal teas are made with extracts from plants that have many medicinal properties. Since they are packed with strong antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, herbal teas help in smooth digestion and lower pain due to gastric problems. Some popular herbal teas include ginger, peppermint, chamomile and lemon tea.

Fennel seeds or Saunf are a tried and tested remedy for gastric pain. In India, they are generally chewed post meals to improve digestion. They contain some vital plant compounds that fuel gastric secretions, enabling smooth processing of food particles and easing symptoms of indigestion and constipation.

Apple cider vinegar provides an acidic microenvironment in the gut and activates the synthesis of digestive enzymes. This is how it promotes digestion and also lessens pain, bloating and other symptoms of gastric problems. It is advised to mix 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and consume it to relieve gastric pain.

Clove is a traditional remedy for bloating, gastric pain, flatulence, constipation etc. Chewing cloves or swallowing a teaspoon of clove powder with cardamom after meals kindle the discharge of digestive acids, thereby preventing acidity and dissipating excessive gas from the body.

High-fibre foods like nuts and seeds, legumes, berries, and green vegetables are beneficial for the whole digestive system and to help deal with gastric pain. Broccoli is especially important for gastric health. Besides being a good source of fibre, it also contains high levels of sulforaphane, a compound that kills the H. pylori bacteria, which causes abdominal problems.

While fruit juices aren’t recommended for people with gastric pain (due to high levels of sugar and acid and no fibre), some vegetable juices and smoothies help in curing it. Potato juice, for example, has anti-oxidative properties and can relieve stomach pain. Pumpkin juice can decrease gastric acidity, helping the stomach lining heal faster.