When you have an upset stomach, eating the wrong food can make you feel even worse. The stomach flu and medical conditions, such as ulcers and digestive disorders, can all necessitate the need for a gentle or bland food diet. Bland foods are low-fat, low-fiber and not spicy. They digest and bind easily in your intestines without producing excess stomach acid or irritating inflamed tissue in the digestive tract.
Whole Grain Toast
Whole grain toast digests easily while providing fiber and iron. Skip the butter, jam and peanut butter, which contain irritating fats or sugars.
Cooked Vegetables
Cooked or steamed vegetables are soft, nutrient-packed and mild for any digestive system. Do not add butter, oil and sour cream to your veggies, as their high fat content makes them potentially aggravating for a sensitive belly.
Lean Meats
Chicken or turkey provides iron and protein to a sensitive stomach. Eat only lean meat to avoid upsetting fats. Use basic cooking methods, such as broiling or baking, without seasoning, dressing or bread coatings to maximize digestibility.
Soft Fruits
Foods, such as applesauce and cooked peaches, are easy to chew and provide vitamins. Skin any fruit before eating to avoid passing any rough, agitating textures through your digestive tract. Avoid all citrus fruits since they contain high levels of acid and can exacerbate inflammation and digestive upset.
Clear Soup
Chicken bouillon and vegetable broth are mild in flavor and easy to chew. Soup also offers fluid to a dehydrated patient. Avoid cream-based soups or those with lots of pepper or spice.