30 Ways To Instantly Relieve Stomach Cramps

1. Try some over-the-counter meds

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Stomach aches are sometimes caused by simply eating too many gas-forming foods. This could be anything from soda to too many green vegetables. If you think that's the cause of your stomach troubles, try some over-the-counter medication like Mylanta or Gas-X. They're designed to act quickly, and you'll likely feel relief very soon!

2. If it's heartburn, use these instead

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While Mylanta or Gas-X helps with bloating and gas, if you're dealing with heartburn, then you want to try something else. Heartburn can be signified by a stomach ache accompanied by a burning sensation in your chest. If these are your symptoms, try picking up some Pepcid AC or Zantac instead.

3. Make sure you're drinking enough water

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This may seem like a no-brainer, but water helps your body absorb nutrients from food and beverages to their maximum potential. If you have digestive issues, it's extremely important to stay hydrated every day. The average adult should be consuming eight 8oz cups of water every day.

4. It's known for its soothing effect

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We all know that aloe can help bring relief when you're experiencing a sunburn. So, somehow it makes sense that aloe juice can relieve your stomach pain. If you're experiencing heartburn, gas, or vomiting, try sipping on aloe juice to calm your digestive system down.

5. Try eating more yogurt

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Did you know that yogurt can help if you experience consistent bloating? It's full of probiotics that help maintain your gut health. The active cultures help regulate your system. Bloating is normal though, so don't worry too much if you're experiencing it from time to time, and if you can't have dairy, there are non-dairy free alternatives with the same active cultures!

6. If that doesn't work, try this dairy product instead

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Again, as long as you're not lactose intolerant, this can be a great at-home remedy. If you're having heartburn, it's because of acid build up, so if you drink a glass of milk, it will quickly calm your stomach down. The milk neutralizes the acid in the stomach, and it's doctor recommended!

7. Get up and do some exercise

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Constipation can be caused by inactivity, so if you haven't moved your body lately, maybe try some exercise! Just 30 minutes per day, while also consuming the appropriate amount of water, can start to get things moving down there. Plus, it's great for your mental health and well-being!

8. Consume more fiber

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Whether it's a fiber powder or adding more high-in-fiber foods to your diet, it can provide you quick relief. Aches and pains are usually trying to bring our attention to something that's out of balance, so maybe your gut health just needs a little support with some extra fiber!

9. Try some ginger

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When experiencing nausea or vomiting, you may experience quick relief by consuming ginger. This is also a home remedy used by people who are pregnant or doing chemotherapy. There are different forms you can try - adding it to your food, a natural ginger ale or a tea.

10. Don't lay down after you eat

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There's a reason experts say you shouldn't eat right before bed. The same goes for that afternoon nap. When you lie down too quickly after eating, your stomach contents actually move back up your esophagus. Gross. It can end up making you feel pain or pressure in your digestive system. Try to wait at least 3 hours!

11. Rice water... It's good for your skin and your belly!

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We already know that putting rice water on your skin is great for it, but did you know that sipping on rice "tea" can get rid of stomach pain? Just soak your rice in water and then the starches that it collects has soothing properties for your body. A simple remedy and probably something you already have in your house!

12. Turn up the heat!

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If you're dealing with cramps or abdominal pain, grab a hot water bottle or a heating pad. The heat helps calm your muscles in both your abdomen and your back. This should provide you some quick relief. If you don't have access to either of these devices, a warm shower or bath can also help!

13. You probably have this one in your pantry right now

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Studies have shown that baking soda (yes, that's right) can actually relieve heartburn. How? It reduces the acid in the stomach and cures indigestion fast. Just be careful not to consume too much as it can cause muscles spasms and irritability. But it comes medical professional recommended.

14. Get some therapy!

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Acupuncture or cognitive therapy has been proven to lower chronic stomach problems. If you've already ruled out underlying conditions with your doctor, try these natural remedies for some relief. You may find that your digestive system problems are stemming from stress, and these therapies can help treat the problem from the source.

15. Just trust on this one

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The thought of drinking apple cider vinegar when you have a stomach ache may sound terrible. But in actuality, when drinking ACV diluted with water, it helps kill the bad gut bacteria that might be causing you issues. Just use one tablespoon mixed with some water or juice. You can add honey too to improve the test.

16. Sorry to all the spicy food lovers out there

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Too much spicy food can cause acid reflux, and in turn, stomach problems. While you don't need to avoid spicy foods all together, just be mindful of how much you're consuming if you're having stomach aches. Also, it's much worse eating these foods at night before bed.

17. Do some yoga stretches

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Exercise is great for our body and for our minds. If you're experiencing stomach issues, try some yoga and light stretching. These stretches can help relieve bloating and get things moving the way they should be. Try laying flat on your back and hugging your knees to your chest for some instant relief.

18. For all the salt lovers

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Don't over-do it with this one, but this is definitely something you can try immediately for an upset stomach. Most of us have used salt water to gargle with for a sore throat or after a dental procedure. But you can also sip on warm salt water to soothe your tummy. You only need one teaspoon of salt to one cup of warm water.

19. If you're constipated, here's a great at-home solution

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Did you know that figs act as a natural laxative? They contain elements that can help lessen constipation by creating healthy bowel movements when you're feeling... stuck. There are also substances in figs that calm down indigestion. And they're yummy!

20. Make sure you're eating regularly

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It's funny to think that sometimes the thing that's causing our stomach troubles is lack of food, but it's true. If you're experiencing stomach pain, this will be heightened on an empty stomach, so it's best to make sure you keep your meals as regular as possible and choose foods that are good for your digestive system.

21. Consume more anti-inflammatory foods

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If your problem is consistent, then it might be time to make a lifestyle change. Eating foods that are anti-inflammatory can help with abdominal pain long term. Foods such as blueberries, cherries, and omega-3 fatty acids can all be super helpful in calming your stomach.

22. And on that note, avoid these foods

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In the same way that foods can help reduce inflammation, there are foods that will likely make you feel worse. Foods that are fried or super sugary, and unfortunately, both caffeine and alcohol can make your problems worse. So if you're having gut troubles, maybe stay away from these for a while!

23. Become a BRAT

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The BRAT diet is a food plan that uses foods that are bland and don't cause stress to your digestive system. BRAT stands for B

ananas, R

ice, A

pplesauce, and T

oast. Of course, you can't live off this diet forever, but if you're experiencing stomach cramps or nausea that's not going away, definitely give this diet a go.

24. When life hands you lemons...

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When life hands you a stomach ache, drink some fresh lemon water. Don't sugar it up to full on lemonade status, but lemon juice in warm water is sure to quickly help your stomach. The acid in the lemons is enough to help your stomach digest food more aggressively and process whatever is causing you trouble.

25. Next time you have cramps, try this

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This one is so simple that sometimes we forget about it! If you're having cramps and/or general abdominal discomfort accompanied by nausea or diarrhea, something as easy as taking ibuprofen can help relieve the symptoms fast. Stay on a regimen for 12 to 24 hours to ease menstrual cramps.

26. It's not just for pasta!

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Basil is a food that helps reduce gas. It has anti-inflammatory properties we love, and it tastes delicious. You can buy fresh basil at any grocery or gardening store. You can even grow a little plant on your counter to keep on hand for stomach aches and pasta night.

27. This one might make you sad

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If your stomach is hurting, you need to avoid fast food. I know, I know, it's easier said than done. If you're feeling pain after your meals, it could be due to the fat and sodium present in fast food. If you don't eat a lot of fast food, it could be indicative of gallbladder issues, so keep an eye on it. Also, when you eat, slow down and make sure you're chewing your food properly!

28. A remedy that also smells lovely

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A little peppermint oil under the tongue can help if you're experiencing a stomach ache. You might want to try it with a carrier oil like coconut for a less harsh feel. When you put it under your tongue, it goes into your bloodstream quickly and provides you with pretty instant relief, especially for nausea. Just make sure it's a high quality oil that can be ingested.

29. Consume more rice

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Similar to when your dog has stomach trouble and you put him on a bland food diet, rice can work wonders for your own stomach issues! It's a low FODMAP food, and the best part about it is that it's easily accessible and affordable. Not to mention delicious!

30. Give it some time

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Sometimes, something you eat (like bad sushi or tacos), stress, or many other factors can cause tummy troubles. If that's the case, you can try just waiting a bit to see if the symptoms go away. This is also true if you have a light case of diarrhea. It's just simply your body's way of flushing itself. As long as your symptoms are getting worse, see if they resolve on their own!