Resource List for Gastrointestinal Pain
Since a lot of people I love have been experiencing gut problems recently, I’ve begun compiling a list of some things that help me during times of intense gastrointestinal pain and discomfort, such as accidental “glutenings.” Be sure to check brand-specific ingredients if you have any allergies or intolerances, and see a doctor if symptoms worsen. And feel free to add anything to this list or make changes that apply to your situation.
1. Try to make sure you get enough rest. If you have anxiety and/or trouble sleeping, try:
Lavender tea or light some lavender incense
Eating celery, kale, jasmine rice, almonds, chickpeas/hummus, bananas, cherries, and/or yogurt
Drinking less coffee and espresso and instead replacing it with Vitamin B12 supplements or foods that are high in B12
2. If you have the resources, try to eat full meals with enough protein, fiber, and energy when your guts tell you they want to eat (it’s all in the timing). If you have an occupation that makes meal timing difficult, try to cook extra dinner the night before work and pack a container of the leftovers to bring to work the next day for lunch or for any small break wherein you can sneak some food. Try to pack snacks and ginger candies for the road.
3. For relief from intense gastrointestinal pain:
If you don’t have the time or tools to chop up fresh ginger and boil it in a small pot of water (ideal option), buy Ginger tea or Ginger capsules. Bring a few tea bags and capsules everywhere you go, so if an attack happens while you’re out and about, you can either take a capsule or find a cup of hot water somewhere to steep your tea. Unlike the sleep aids listed above, ginger will not make you tired, so you can feel comfortable taking it when you need to stay alert.
Chamomile, peppermint, lemon balm, and lavender all help gastrointestinal pain in addition to aiding sleep and relaxation.
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water and drink it.
Cook with rosemary or thyme, or drink rosemary or thyme tea.
Try not to drink alcohol or coffee while an attack is happening or if you feel one coming on, and if you have the choice to go home and rest, try to do so (instead of staying out late, for example). If possible, bring your friends/family home to you instead of going/staying out to see them.
Try not to wait! If you’re having a less painful day today and have the funds, go out and get yourself a self-care package of the above remedies (or order them online) so that you’ll be ready when things get intense in there.
Build a gut-healing community of folks who support each other during painful times. Share tips and remedies with one another in this gut-wrenching world.
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