Do you have chronic stomach issues? This is a loaded question with dozens of possible answers. Because the truth is, many of us would say yes, despite our reoccurring symptoms being vastly different. Flatulence, constipation, diarrhea and gastric reflux are examples of potential responses. For some, the cause is an underlying physiological condition such as Celiac disease, ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – while for others, periodic flare-ups are more likely to be triggered by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression.
If the latter is you, it is crucial not to exacerbate the inflammation affecting your digestive system. Nutritional habits can be a friend – or foe – of our physical and mental health because dietary choices extend beyond the numbers we see on a scale. No matter the origin of the ailment, the resulting discomfort can equally diminish our quality of life.
Thus, consciously choosing to eat certain anti-inflammatory foods is one affordable option worth trying to calm the gut. Budget-friendly examples include:
- Basil
- Beets
- Blueberries
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Grapes
- Lentils
- Mushrooms
- Parsley
- Radish
- Spinach
Prioritize meals that support all aspects of your wellness journey. This can be done by taking notes of how you feel holistically post-snack time, plus after dining out or at home.
Other holistic remedies that may help soothe the stomach are:
- Adequate hydration
- Good sleep
- Breathwork
- Sufficient fiber intake
An additional factor that women especially should be mindful of is the potential impact of hormonal fluctuations. It is common for women to feel bloated during specific times of their menstrual cycles. The hormones prostaglandin and progesterone stimulate – and slow down – gut motility (the process of food, liquids and waste fully moving through the digestive tract). So small dietary modifications could provide moderate relief from extreme shifts in the frequency and consistency of bowel movements.
Have a “healthy tummy” tip to share? I look forward to reading about it in the comments thread below.
And the WE in WELLBEING is a good reminder of the healing power of COMMUNITY this Wednesday! —Rachel
As a vegetarian, I get plenty of fiber from vegetables. I do use ginger chews when my stomach is hurting, though. Good advice!
THANKS for this feedback, Robin. And “good call” on the ginger chews too.
Thank you
You’re welcome, Mary!
Thank you so much. I like seeing that radishes are anti-inflamatory. I can eat more radishes easily as they are cheap and available!
Stacey,
I appreciate you taking the time to “call out” how affordable radishes are, especially this time of year in certain areas. Same goes if shop at farmer’s markets or fresh produce stands.
Rachel, your presence at TOPS is most appreciated. I am Whole Food Plant Based and like having new recipes in our magazine along with current information on health. You are adding a much needed service to members. Thank You, Loretta Yearous
Hi Loretta,
I can’t tell you how much your comment means to me! It is REALLY great to hear the content I create truly is helpful to members 🙂
Thank you so much. I didn’t realize some of those foods were antiinflammatory. I have an autoimmune disease and my gut puts me through roller coasters at times. I have to eat yogurt to help but sometimes that doesn’t work.
Appreciate you taking the time to share and leave a positive comment, Dawnja.
You may also want to try drinking 6-8 ounces (~ 1 cup) of kombucha the next time yogurt doesn’t fully provide the gastric aid you need.
I have an autoimmune disease. Thank you for the list of beneficial foods.
My pleasure, Debbie. I know that can be challenging, so happy to hear this content could be quite helpful for you.