Whether you’ve got a stomach bug, a condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or just drank too many margs last night, your first instinct is probably to load up on saltine crackers and ginger ale (Anyone else? Just me?).
After all, no one wants to eat the wrong thing and make an already angry stomach... angrier.
“When your stomach is upset, you want to make sure you're doing everything to mitigate the symptoms and feel better,” says dietitian Valerie Goldberg, R.D. “You want easy-to-digest food. It’s best to avoid anything high in fiber or fat and to stick with simple carbohydrates and lean protein sources that the body can break down easily.”
Since stomach issues can signal more serious underlying health problems, seek medical attention ASAP if an upset stomach lasts longer than three days or so, says Goldberg. In the meantime, she says these gut-friendly foods can ease queasiness and reduce emergency bathroom sprints.
1. White Rice
Low in fiber and high in simple carbohydrates, white rice is easy to digest—a major plus when your stomach is on the fritz, says Goldberg. It’s especially settling if you're nauseous.
Eat up: Goldberg recommends pairing white rice with a simple, easy-to-absorb protein, like grilled chicken. If that feels too heavy, cook your rice in bone broth for added protein and flavor, or add collagen powder.
2. Bananas
