Dealing with an upset stomach can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. It can be difficult to know what foods to eat and what to avoid in order to soothe your stomach and feel better.
One food combination that has been debated is rice with soy sauce. While some people swear by this as a go-to meal for an upset stomach, others caution against it.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of rice with soy sauce for an upset stomach and provide some alternative options to consider.
So, let’s dive in and find out if this popular food pairing is really good for your tummy!
Is Rice With Soy Sauce Good For An Upset Stomach?
Rice with soy sauce is a popular food combination that many people turn to when they have an upset stomach. The idea behind this pairing is that the blandness of the rice will help soothe the stomach, while the saltiness of the soy sauce will add flavor and provide some much-needed electrolytes.
However, while this may sound like a good idea in theory, there are some potential downsides to consider.
Firstly, soy sauce is a fermented food that contains significant amounts of histamine. While histamines are released by the body to aid in digestion, too much can trigger symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, itching, rashes, and digestive problems in those with histamine intolerance. Additionally, if you’re sensitive or allergic to gluten, wheat, or soy, then you may want to avoid soy sauce altogether.
Furthermore, while rice is generally considered a safe food for an upset stomach, it’s important to note that not all types of rice are created equal. White rice is often recommended over brown rice because it’s lower in fiber and more gentle on the stomach. Heavy seasoning should also be avoided as it can upset the stomach.
The Benefits Of Rice For An Upset Stomach
Rice is a well-known remedy for an upset stomach, particularly when it comes to diarrhea. This is because plain white rice is low in fiber and easily digestible, which helps to slow down the digestive system and firm up stools. Additionally, the starch in rice can coat the stomach and help to alleviate discomfort.
If you’re not feeling up to eating solid foods, rice water can also be an effective way to control diarrhea. Simply boil one cup of rice in two cups of water for ten minutes, strain the rice, and drink the water. This method is an easy way to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration, which is a concern when you’re dealing with a stomach bug.
It’s important to note that not all types of rice are suitable for an upset stomach. Wild, brown, or black rice are generally harder to digest, so it’s best to stick with plain white rice. Additionally, heavy seasoning should be avoided as it can upset the stomach further.
The Pros Of Soy Sauce For Digestion
Despite the potential downsides mentioned above, soy sauce does have some potential benefits for digestion. A study of shoyu – Japanese soy sauce – showed that consumption may help the gastric tract process food better, thus supporting healthy digestion. Soy sauce promotes digestion as well by enhancing gastric juice secretion. Japanese style fermented soy sauce helps support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract because it’s fermented.
Additionally, soy sauce contains significant amounts of antioxidants, which have been linked to a whole host of health benefits. Antioxidants protect your body from damage from free radicals, which can speed up the aging process and potentially increase your risk of developing heart disease or cancer. The antioxidants in soy sauce have been found to reduce the effects of inflammation, as well as improve overall gastric acid production, thus helping with digestion.
It’s important to note that while soy sauce may have some potential benefits for digestion, it should be used in moderation and with caution for those with histamine intolerance or allergies to gluten, wheat, or soy. As with any food, it’s important to listen to your body and make choices that work best for you and your individual needs.
The Potential Drawbacks Of Soy Sauce
While soy sauce can add flavor to rice and other dishes, it’s important to be aware of its potential drawbacks. One major concern is its high sodium content, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. While soy sauce contains less sodium than table salt, it still contributes a significant amount to your daily recommended intake.
Another concern is the presence of isoflavones in soy products, which have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and menstrual cycle disturbances in women. Additionally, soy sauce contains Goitrogens, a type of isoflavone that can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis and potentially lead to hyperthyroidism.
Soy sauce can also negatively impact male reproductive health by affecting sperm count and estrogen levels. The glutamic acid in soy sauce, along with added MSG for flavor enhancement, can also affect neurological health.
Consuming soy sauce can also obstruct the absorption of minerals and protein digestion, leading to digestive issues and pancreatic problems. Furthermore, the high salt content in soy sauce can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cause a sudden spike in blood pressure.
Finally, pregnant women should avoid consuming soy sauce as it can hamper fetal growth. Oxalates in soy sauce can also lead to kidney stones, while phytoestrogen can lead to kidney failure.
Rice And Soy Sauce: A Winning Combination?
Rice and soy sauce can be a winning combination, but it’s important to be mindful of how much soy sauce you’re adding. Soy sauce fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that uses minimal ingredients to create maximum flavor. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that only takes ten minutes to prepare and can be served as a main or as a midnight snack.
However, traditional soy sauce fried rice uses animal fat (lard or chicken fat) instead of oil to create the best taste. If you’re in the US, it may be difficult to find animal fats, so butter can be used as a substitute while still maintaining the best taste. It’s also important to note that soy sauce is high in sodium, so if you have high blood pressure or are watching your salt intake, then you may want to limit how much soy sauce you use.
If you’re experiencing an upset stomach, then white rice with a light sprinkle of sea salt is ideal. This is because white rice is lower in fiber and more gentle on the stomach than brown rice. Adding soy sauce for flavor can be helpful as long as you don’t overdo it. Heavy seasoning, sauces, and spices should generally be avoided as they can upset the stomach.
Alternatives To Rice And Soy Sauce For Soothing An Upset Stomach
If you’re looking for alternatives to rice and soy sauce for soothing an upset stomach, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are a few:
1. Plain white rice: As mentioned earlier, plain white rice is a good option for soothing an upset stomach. It’s gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. You can add a little bit of salt or butter for flavor.
2. Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are another bland food that can help soothe an upset stomach. They’re easy to digest and can be seasoned with a little bit of salt or butter.
3. Boiled or baked chicken: Chicken is a good source of protein that’s easy on the stomach. Boil or bake some chicken and season it with a little bit of salt and pepper.
4. Bananas: Bananas are a great source of potassium, which can help replenish electrolytes lost during vomiting or diarrhea. They’re also easy to digest and can be mashed up for added comfort.
5. Ginger tea: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an upset stomach. Brew some ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger in hot water for a few minutes.
Remember, when dealing with gastrointestinal distress, it’s important to listen to your body and eat what feels comfortable. Stick to bland, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest and avoid heavy seasoning or spices that can irritate the stomach.
Tips For Eating With An Upset Stomach
If you’re dealing with an upset stomach, there are some tips you can follow to make eating more comfortable:
1. Stick to bland foods: Foods like rice, applesauce, and toast are gentle on the stomach and can help prevent further upset. Avoid heavily seasoned or spicy foods.
2. Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly: This can help your digestive system process the food more easily.
3. Consume smaller, more frequent meals: This can help prevent overloading your stomach and causing discomfort.
4. Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is important for preventing dehydration, especially if you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
5. Avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks: These can irritate the stomach and make symptoms worse.
6. Identify specific triggers: If you notice certain foods consistently causing upset, try removing them from your diet.
7. Seek medical attention if necessary: If you experience chronic or severe abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, iron deficiency anemia, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing or persistent vomiting or diarrhea, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions.
