If you have a gastric stomach, or upset stomach, certain foods can cause further irritation to your intestines and could worsen your symptoms. An upset stomach can be the result of food poisoning, the stomach flu or general indigestion. Your stomach can become upset if you eat highly greasy or fatty foods. If you've been diagnosed with a specific gastrointestinal condition, talk with your doctor before you change your diet.
Causes
Common causes of a gastric stomach are the stomach flu and food poisoning. The stomach flu is a viral infection in the lining of the stomach and intestines that causes inflammation, diarrhea and nausea. Food poisoning causes vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps after you ingest water or food that is contaminated with bacteria, toxins or parasites. Both conditions will trigger gastric symptoms for one to 10 days after you acquire the illness. Report all your symptoms to your doctor.
Food to Avoid
Some foods are not good for an upset stomach. Foods that are high in fat, contain fiber, are spicy and are greasy can cause further gastric complications. Avoid dairy products if you are actively vomiting or have diarrhea. Do not eat or drink foods or beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine, because these substances can promote dehydration. Avoid black pepper, chili powder, chocolate, carbonated beverages, fried foods, acidic fruit juices such as orange juice, broccoli, corn, onions, cabbage and cheese. Avoid eating large amounts of food.
Lactose Consideration
Some gastric stomach conditions could cause temporary lactose intolerance. Even if you are not lactose intolerant, the gastric illness can cause your small intestines to temporarily stop making lactase, the enzyme that digests lactose. Lactose is a sugar found in milk. If you become temporarily lactose intolerant, avoid all dairy products, because lactose intolerance will cause your diarrhea to become worse.
Eating Plan
Talk with your doctor about forming an eating plan while you're experiencing a gastric stomach, based on the severity of your symptoms. For example, if you can't stop vomiting and having diarrhea, the doctor may form a plan that recommends you remove all food and drink for 2 hours and then sip on clear fluid to calm the stomach. The eating plan will require that you slowly increase bland foods back into your diet until you're able to eat normally again.
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