This one's a proper game-changer for stomach pain. You'll need: 1 inch fresh ginger root, juice of 1 lemon, 1 cup warm water, and 1 teaspoon honey (optional). Grate the ginger finely and steep it in warm water for 5 minutes. Strain, add lemon juice and honey if you fancy it. The ginger reduces inflammation whilst the lemon helps balance your stomach's pH levels. Sip this slowly – it's potent but effective.
Papaya Digestive Aid Smoothie
For this gut-friendly smoothie, grab: 1 cup ripe papaya (peeled and deseeded), half a banana, 1 cup coconut water, and a pinch of ginger powder. Blend everything until smooth. Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins and eases digestion. The banana adds natural sweetness and helps firm things up if you're dealing with loose stools. Coconut water keeps you hydrated without being too harsh on your stomach.
Aloe Vera Gut-Soothing Elixir
You'll want: 2 tablespoons fresh aloe vera gel (or 1 tablespoon if using store-bought), juice of half a cucumber, 1 cup water, and a squeeze of lime. Blend and strain if needed. Aloe vera is brilliant for reducing stomach inflammation and creating a protective coating on your stomach lining. The cucumber adds extra cooling properties, making this perfect when your stomach feels raw or burning.
Pineapple and Mint Digestive Enzyme Booster
Gather: 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks, 6-8 fresh mint leaves, 1 cup cold water, and ice if you like it chilled. Blend everything together and strain if you prefer a smoother texture. Pineapple contains bromelain, a powerful digestive enzyme that helps break down food and reduce inflammation. The mint adds a cooling effect and helps relax your digestive muscles.
Alkaline Juices for Balancing Stomach Acidity
When your stomach feels like it's on fire, you're probably dealing with excess acid. Alkaline juices help neutralise this acidity naturally. Green vegetables like spinach, cucumber, and celery are naturally alkaline and gentle on your digestive system. Try blending 1 cup spinach, half a cucumber, 1 celery stalk, half a green apple, and a cup of water. This green alkaline juice blend tastes fresher than you'd think and works brilliantly for acid-related stomach pain. The key is drinking it fresh – alkaline properties decrease over time.
Probiotic-Rich Drinks for Gut Health