Health Tip: Don't Aggravate an Upset Stomach

ByABC News
March 24, 2008, 12:42 AM

Mar. 23 -- (HealthDay News) -- Got an upset stomach? Here are suggestions on how to tame it, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

  • Drink plenty of clear liquids, like water, ginger ale, or certain fruit juices. Drink slowly and consume only small amounts at a time to avoid aggravating the stomach.
  • Avoid dark and heavy fluids, like cola or coffee.
  • If you're vomiting, don't eat any solid food until you haven't been sick in at least six hours. Then, slowly introduce light foods, like dry toast or crackers.
  • Over-the-counter medications like Pepto Bismol may help ease nausea in adults. These medicines, however, contain aspirin-like ingredients and should never be given to children or teens who have had recent bouts with chickenpox or flu.
  • If nausea and vomiting do not subside, consult your doctor without delay.