7 Stomach Soothers That Are Better Than Ginger Ale

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Ginger ale is usually our go-to beverage when stomach aches strike. It’s the mythological cure that has stuck around for ages so it must work, right? Sadly, reports say the slightly spicy soda doesn’t actually do much for our tummy troubles. (Surprising, we know, it’s news to us, too.)

The amount of real (and fresh) ginger in ginger ale is pretty pathetic, and by drinking it we just end up consuming a solid amount of added sugar and soda bubbles instead of remedying our discomfort. So it’s time to revamp our medicinal rituals with other stomach ache cures that actually get the job done. Below are seven options to consider — most of which are likely in your kitchen already.

1. Ginger Root

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After knocking ginger ale, of course we would recommend grabbing some fresh ginger root and brewing your own homemade tea with it. Gingerol (the active compound in ginger) is a powerful antioxidant with big anti-inflammatory benefits. Get enough of this stuff and your stomach ache will subside.

2. Yogurt

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It might seem weird to recommend a dairy option, but hear us out. The probiotics in yogurt can help restore balance to your healthy gut bacteria, which can help with your stomach ache now, as well as prevent other digestive issues in the future. Talk about a win-win situation.

3. Chamomile Tea

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Chamomile is a solid stomach soother because it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relax tense muscles (yes, including your abdominals that make cramping an unfortunate reality). Just brew a cup like you would when you’re trying to drift off to sleep and notice how it helps your stomach settle.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

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This is a harsh one, but the acidic punch of the vinegar can actually help to neutralize an upset stomach. You can mix it with water and honey to make downing it a bit easier, too. Similar to the yogurt option, apple cider vinegar protects the healthy bacteria in your gut.

5. Peppermint

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The menthol in peppermint can soothe the human body on the inside, as well as on the skin. Drink a freshly brewed cup of peppermint tea or even suck on a few peppermint throat drops if you aren’t a fan of the tea’s flavor profile. It’s likely to help provide relief from chest and sinus congestion as well. Bonus!

6. Baking Soda

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This one is for the antacid fans out there. Drop a spoonful of baking soda into a glass of water and drink it down to help relieve stomach pressure without consuming all of the crappy additives that can be found in most stomach meds. Feel free to add a little lemon juice for flavor, too.

7. BRAT Foods

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BRAT stands for “bananas, rice, applesauce and toast,” which are some of the best low-fiber, high-binding, bland AF foods out there. (They’re usually recommended for children, but whatever.) If your stomach is feeling a little upset, but you know you need to sneak in a meal somehow, stick to these kiddy food options or others like them that are low in salt and far from spicy.

So long, ginger ale. It’s been real, but we need to try out these new tummy friends before we return to your arms begging you to provide the relief you once promised us.