Stomach pain, also known as abdominal pain, is a common symptom. Anyone can get stomach pain anytime for a multitude of reasons. This has made us very unbothered about stomach pain. Most of us suffer through it, thinking that it will pass the due time. Usually, it does. But sometimes, it doesn’t, and it worsens over time. That’s why it is essential for individuals to realize or recognize what kind of stomach pain they are undergoing. So, today let’s look at the various reasons one can have stomach pain. Let’s also look at some of the quick home remedies you can use to alleviate your stomach pain.

Stomach pain!

Stomach pain refers to any discomfort or pain experienced in the areas between your chest and pelvis. It can be caused by a wide range of factors, including digestive issues, infections, inflammation, organ problems, and more. The pain you experience can also vary greatly. For example, the stomach pain may sometimes be sharp, cramp-like, dull, or intermittent. Further, the pain may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation. This variation in stomach pain, along with its accompanied symptoms, will help one identify the issue.

The causes of stomach pain can vary greatly. They include indigestion, gas, gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastroenteritis (stomach flu), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), appendicitis, gallstones, kidney stones, and more. In some cases, stomach pain may be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. So, now let’s go ahead and look at some of the causes of stomach pain.

Causes of stomach pain

Indigestion: Overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming spicy, fatty, or greasy foods can lead to indigestion, resulting in discomfort and pain in the upper abdomen.
Gas and bloating: Excess gas in the digestive system can cause bloating and abdominal pain. This can be caused by swallowing air, consuming gas-producing foods, or disrupting the normal gut flora.
Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, known as gastritis, can cause pain in the upper abdomen, along with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a burning sensation.
Gastroenteritis: Commonly referred to as the stomach flu, gastroenteritis is an infection of the digestive tract that leads to stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, and sometimes fever.
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the upper portion of the small intestine. They can cause a burning or gnawing pain in the abdomen, often occurring on an empty stomach or at night.
Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder, known as gallstones, can cause severe abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.
Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, known as appendicitis, can cause intense pain in the lower right abdomen. If left untreated, it can lead to a ruptured appendix, which is a medical emergency.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine and can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease: GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) and sometimes stomach pain.
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and other symptoms.

So, as we can see, some of the causes of stomach pain can be simple, while some can be serious issues that require immediate medical attention. Serious medical conditions require immediate professional medical attention. But, the non-life threatening stomach issues can be dealt with with home remedies. It will not cure the pain but will help you to reduce it.

Home remedies for simple stomach pain

Stomach pain can have various causes, ranging from indigestion and gas to more serious conditions like gastritis or gastroenteritis. While home remedies can help alleviate mild stomach pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen. Here are some home remedies that may provide relief:

Ginger

Ginger can be an effective natural remedy for reducing stomach pain. It has been traditionally used to soothe digestive discomfort. Here are a few ways you can use ginger to help alleviate your symptoms:

Ginger tea: Prepare ginger tea by slicing a small piece of fresh ginger root and adding it to a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain and drink the tea. You can add a squeeze of lemon or a teaspoon of honey for added flavour.
Ginger slices: Peel and slice a small piece of fresh ginger root. Chew on the ginger slices slowly, allowing the juice to mix with your saliva before swallowing. This can help soothe your stomach and alleviate pain.

Peppermint

Peppermint has been shown to have a calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Here are a few ways you can use peppermint to help ease your symptoms:

Peppermint tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves or a peppermint tea bag in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it slowly.
Peppermint oil capsules: Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are available at health stores. Follow the instructions on the product packaging for the recommended dosage. These capsules can alleviate stomach pain, particularly related to gas and bloating.
Peppermint oil massage: Dilute a few drops of peppermint oil in carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil. Gently massage the diluted peppermint oil onto your abdomen in a circular motion.
Peppermint-infused water: Add a few drops of food-grade peppermint oil to a glass of water. Stir well and drink it slowly.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a herb that is known for its calming and soothing properties, which can help reduce stomach pain and promote digestion. Here are a few ways you can use chamomile to help alleviate your symptoms:

Chamomile tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for about 5 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it slowly.
Chamomile compresses: Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea using hot water and a larger amount of chamomile flowers. Let it cool down to a comfortable temperature. Soak a clean cloth or towel in the cooled chamomile tea, wring out the excess liquid, and apply the compress to your abdomen. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes. The warmth and aroma of chamomile can help soothe stomach pain.
Chamomile essential oil: Dilute a few drops of chamomile essential oil in carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil. Gently massage the diluted chamomile oil onto your abdomen in a circular motion.

Heat therapy

Heat therapy can often help one to relax the muscles and relieve stomach pain.

Heating pad: Use a heating pad or hot water bottle. Ensure it is set to a comfortable temperature, not too hot, to avoid burning your skin. Place the heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen where you are experiencing pain. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes at a time. Repeat this as needed throughout the day.
Warm compress: Wet a clean washcloth with warm water. Wring out the excess water and place the warm compress on your abdomen. You can hold it in place with a towel or secure it with a bandage. Leave the warm compress on for 10-15 minutes, and repeat as necessary.
Warm bath or shower: Taking a warm bath or shower can help relax your muscles and alleviate stomach pain. Allow the warm water to run over your abdomen for several minutes, or soak in a warm bath for 15-20 minutes.
A warm towel or rice sock: Heat a towel in the microwave or fill a clean sock with uncooked rice and heat it in the microwave. Ensure it is warm, not too hot, and apply it to your abdomen for 10-15 minutes.

Rice water

Drinking rice water can be soothing for an upset stomach.

Preparation: Take half a cup of uncooked rice (preferably white rice) and rinse it with water to remove any impurities. Drain the water and transfer the rice to a bowl.
Rice water extraction: Add 2 cups of water to the bowl of rinsed rice. Stir the rice in the water for a few minutes, allowing the starch to be released into the water. The water will become cloudy or milky in appearance.
Straining: Strain the rice water into a separate container, separating the rice from the liquid. The resulting liquid is rice water that can be used to reduce stomach pain.
Consumption: Drink the rice water slowly in small sips. It can be consumed at room temperature or slightly warm. Start with a small amount and gradually increase if tolerated well.

Avoid trigger foods

If certain foods tend to trigger stomach pain for you, it’s best to avoid them until your symptoms subside. Common triggers include spicy and fatty foods, caffeine, and carbonated beverages.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration and aid digestion. It is particularly important if your stomach pain is accompanied by diarrhoea or vomiting.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of your gut flora. Consuming probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or taking probiotic supplements may help alleviate stomach discomfort. Yes, gut flora has a lot to do with your stomach aches. Are you wondering why? Let’s examine.

The relationship between gut flora and stomach ache

An imbalance or weakening of the gut flora can contribute to symptoms such as indigestion, gas, bloating, and gastritis. The gut flora, also known as the gut microbiota, refers to the trillions of microorganisms that reside in the digestive tract. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining digestive health and overall well-being.

When there is a disruption or imbalance in the gut flora, it can lead to various digestive issues. Here’s how it can contribute to the symptoms you mentioned:

Indigestion: A healthy gut flora helps with the breakdown and absorption of food. When the balance of beneficial bacteria is disrupted, it can affect the digestive process, leading to indigestion and discomfort.
Gas and bloating: Imbalances in the gut flora can result in an overgrowth of certain bacteria, which can produce excess gas during the digestion of food. This can lead to bloating, flatulence, and discomfort.
Gastritis: The gut flora helps maintain the integrity of the stomach lining and regulates inflammation. When the gut flora is compromised, it can contribute to inflammation in the stomach lining, leading to gastritis. So, do you know how your gut flora gets weakened? Let’s find out, shall we?

How does gut flora get weakened?

Poor diet: A diet high in processed foods and sugar and low in fibre can negatively impact the gut flora.
Antibiotic use: Antibiotics are designed to kill bacteria but can also disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Stress: Chronic stress can affect the gut-brain axis and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.
Infections: Certain infections, such as bacterial or viral gastroenteritis, can disrupt the gut flora.

To support healthy gut flora and alleviate digestive symptoms, it’s important to focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fibre, whole foods, and fermented foods. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, can also help restore and maintain a healthy gut flora. Now, an easy yet effective way to maintain your gut flora exists. This can save you from many stomach aches as it will solve most of your stomach issues. Welcome to Nutriplus GutHealth.

Nutriplus GutHealth: A solution to your stomach issues

The best way of managing your gut health is to start including this probiotic supplement in your daily routine. Nutriplus GutHealth is a health supplement containing 5 species of beneficial bacteria to help you maintain your gut flora. Your gut requires a healthy atmosphere for proper absorption and nutrient utilization. Nutriplus GutHealth makes that possible with its proprietary Advanced Activator Hybrid Culture (AHC™) formulation. AHC™ improves the viability of probiotic bacterium strains in your gut and provides an environment to be more effective. Nutriplus GutHealth stays in your digestive tract long enough to provide your gut with the protection and support that it requires. The good-gut bacteria found in Nutriplus GutHealth are Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium longum and Streptococcus thermophiles.

Nutriplus GutHealth ensures: