Death by stress (2)

9 tips for a happy, healthy stomach

Eat at regular intervals

Never skip breakfast or lunch. An empty stomach can produce too much gastric acid, harming the mucosa that protects the stomach.

Avoid overeating

Don't eat too much, or too late at night, so that your stomach can rest when the body is sleeping. Don't eat between meals so the stomach gets a break.

Eat slowly

Don't rush when you eat, and be sure to chew your food thoroughly so that the stomach doesn't have to work harder during digestion.

Eat clean food

Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that is the main cause of stomach ulcers, breeds much faster in stomachs that have been exposed to unclean food.

Bundle up in the cold

Remember that health is more important than showing off your body during winter. Wear a good coat, hat and gloves. Too much exposure to the cold can lead to stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea.

Don't exhaust yourself

Take frequent rests from work, both physically and mentally. This allows the stomach a reprieve from stress, which negatively affects its immunity.

Take it easy on the booze

Too much alcohol can destroy the stomach mucosa, aggravate any previous stomach damage, and even lead to internal bleeding.

Eat milder foods

Avoid foods that are high in acidity and hot spices. Stick with simple foods that are easier to digest.

Don't just take a pill

Many over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, contain chemicals that harm the stomach. If you're having frequent stomach pains, don't self-medicate. It can make it worse. Go see a professional who can give you something that will really treat your illness.