Chicken noodle soup has long been a classic remedy for various ailments, including the stomach flu. Many people turn to a warm bowl of soup whenever their digestive system is unsettled. The question is whether this comforting folk remedy holds up when dealing with an upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea. The soup’s simple components align well with dietary recommendations for gastrointestinal distress.
The Soothing Power of Broth and Warmth
The liquid base of the soup, the broth, addresses the most urgent concern of an upset stomach: hydration. Illnesses involving vomiting or diarrhea cause significant fluid loss, making the high water content of the broth beneficial for preventing dehydration. One cup of typical chicken noodle soup is about 90% water, effectively replenishing lost fluids.
The broth also provides sodium, an electrolyte rapidly depleted during frequent vomiting or diarrhea. Sodium helps the body reabsorb water, making sipping soup more effective for rehydration than plain water alone. The warmth of the soup can also be psychologically soothing and may help relax stomach muscles, making it easier to tolerate when appetite is low.
Analyzing the Key Ingredients for Digestion
Moving beyond the broth, the solid ingredients in chicken noodle soup are bland and easy on a sensitive digestive system. The chicken is a source of lean protein, which is easier to digest than red meats or high-fat proteins. When boiled or simmered, the chicken breaks down further, providing amino acids that support the immune system without requiring significant digestive energy.
The noodles or rice supply simple carbohydrates, which are quickly broken down into glucose to provide energy. These bland starches, like white rice or plain noodles, are low in fiber, which helps avoid irritating the inflamed gut lining. This aligns with the principles of a bland diet, which favors easily digestible, low-fiber foods for gastrointestinal recovery. Any vegetables included, such as carrots or celery, should be thoroughly cooked, as this process breaks down their fiber content. This ensures the vitamins and minerals they contribute can be absorbed without placing strain on the digestive system.
Customizing the Soup for Maximum Relief
Not all chicken noodle soups are equally beneficial for an upset stomach; specific modifications can maximize relief. Avoid high-fat ingredients, as fat takes longer to digest and can worsen symptoms like nausea or diarrhea. Skimming visible fat from the broth or using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps the soup easily digestible.
For those managing high blood pressure, choosing a low-sodium or unsalted broth is necessary, even though sodium aids electrolyte balance during illness. Avoid adding heavy spices, such as chili powder or excessive black pepper, which can irritate the digestive tract. The focus should remain on simple, plain ingredients; whole-grain noodles, raw vegetables, and dairy products should be avoided until symptoms subside.
When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough
While chicken noodle soup helps manage mild stomach upset, it is a supportive measure, not a cure for all digestive issues. Certain symptoms warrant immediate consultation with a medical professional. Relying solely on home remedies is inappropriate if you experience signs of severe dehydration, such as not urinating for eight hours or feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
Other red flags include persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if localized to one area, or a fever that lasts more than three days or is higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit. The presence of blood in vomit or stools, or black, tarry stools, indicates a serious issue requiring urgent medical attention. Most cases of stomach upset resolve within a few days, but if vomiting or severe diarrhea persists beyond 24 to 48 hours without improvement, medical evaluation is necessary.