How to Prevent an Upset Stomach

No one likes dealing with an upset stomach. Even though they’re often preventable and go away in a relatively timely manner, the can make the day a struggle to get through.

Don’t let nausea and an upset stomach get to you by preventing them! Our AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte team highlights some effective ways to keep your gut health intact below, so keep reading.

  • Here’s what to do: Stay hydrated. The body needs water to digest and absorb nutrients from foods and beverages efficiently. Being dehydrated makes digestion more difficult and less effective, which increases the likelihood of feeling nauseous.

  • What to do next: Opt for many small meals instead of a two or three big meals. Going for light meals instead of heavy meals will prevent from overwhelming your body with large amounts of protein and acid to digest.

  • What to do after: Don’t lie down after eating. Experts suggest waiting at least two hours before lying down after a meal to help prevent reflux. This will help food pass to avoid nausea and indigestion.

  • Another prevention tactic: Be careful of your caffeine intake. According to experts, withdrawal from caffeine can result in nausea, fatigue, dizziness, muscle pain, trouble sleeping and irritability. While none of these sound good, nausea is definitely a major disturbance and can sometimes last a while. Be careful with how much caffeine you consume each day and of withdrawal symptoms.

  • Something else to keep in mind: Store, clean and prepare food carefully and correctly. Dirty, moldy and expired foods can all expose your body to harmful bacteria that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even a fever.

  • If you do become nauseous: Consider OTC antiemetic medications. These types of medications, like Dramamine and Pepto-Bismol, are anti-nausea drugs that can help to reduce feelings of nausea or vomiting.

  • Action steps to take: If your stomach is upset, monitor how long it feels bad. Although nausea often isn’t serious, you should reach out to your doctor if your nausea or vomiting lasts more than two days for adults, more than 24 hours for children, or more than 12 hours for infants.

  • Doctor recommendations: Proper overall hygiene is the best nausea preventer, and it’s the best way to stay healthy! Remember to stay active, wash your hands, drink water, get enough sleep and eat lots of healthy, natural foods.

Are you feeling rough and aren’t sure how to treat your upset stomach? Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte center today!