When we're young, it seems like we can eat just about anything and it doesn't bother our stomachs. However, as we age, our bodies change in many different ways. Our digestive systems seem to become more sensitive to certain kinds of foods. The milk, soda, potato chips, burgers and fries that we ate so much of as youngsters eventually take their toll on our health. The solution is to eat a diet that is lighter and easier on the stomach.
Foods to enjoy
Eat foods that are well tolerated by the stomach. Eat foods like egg whites, oatmeal, berries, carrots, peaches, seafood, sweet potatoes, legumes, papaya, mango and nonfat yogurt, which contains a good bacterium that strengthens and helps to regulate the digestive tract. Natural foods that are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates ease hunger, keep you satisfied longer and lessen the urge to snack on junk food, a major cause of sensitive stomachs.
Foods to avoid
Avoid eating foods that are processed or are known to increase gas in the stomach. Avoid foods such as milk, eggs, beans, broccoli, caffeine, wheat gluten, cabbage and alcohol, which are known to cause upset stomachs in sensitive individuals. You should also avoid processed foods such as packaged meats, carbonated beverages, fried foods and potato chips, which are generally high in sugar, sodium and calories and in turn make you gain weight. An overabundance of fat in the midsection causes upset stomach and often contributes to the development of acid reflux.
Eat slowly
Eat slowly and chew your food well. One reason why our stomach hurts is that we gulp our food down, unnecessarily swallowing too much air in the process. This creates bloating and excess gas in the stomach, which causes the stomach to cramp. Chewing each bite of food several times will help create more saliva, allowing the food to be broken down much more before entering the stomach. This in turn makes the digestive tract have to work less to produce bile. Bile can cause the stomach to churn and gurgle, leading to an upset stomach.
Drink plenty of fluids
Drink lots of fluids such as water, green tea and broths. Fluids help to lubricate our food as it enters our stomachs. Additionally, it softens the foods, making it easier on the digestive system. We all know the benefits of drinking plenty of water; it hydrates the body and actually helps us to eat less. Green tea is known for its many healing benefits and broths, contributing to a warm, soothing feeling when we don't feel well.
