How does chicken soup help an upset stomach?
The American College of Gastroenterology suggests broth-based soups over other varieties for an upset stomach because they are:
- Low in fat
- High in water
- High in sodium
Soup’s salt content aids in the body’s ability to reabsorb more water, restoring any fluids lost while your stomach was upset. But if you have high blood pressure, choose low-salt options so you can still benefit from the fluids.
Soup is also easily digested when it’s not cooked in fat, and if you’ve recently experienced nausea or reflux, your stomach can handle it fairly well.
LIFESTYLE CHOICES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO MINERAL DEFICIENCY
Many carbonated drinks are enhanced in flavor by the addition of phosphoric acid. It provides that tanginess that we enjoy. Even though phosphorus is an essential component of bones, excessive consumption of the mineral—such as from sodas’ acidic forms—can push aside other important, healthy bone minerals like calcium and magnesium, causing phosphates to replace them and eventually cause brittle bones (osteoporosis).
Chronic heavy drinkers often have several dietary and mineral deficiencies. Strong diuretic effects of alcohol may be a factor in the loss of minerals in the urine. Alcohol also affects the formation of bones and depletes minerals through other mechanisms. These are intricate and technical matters that are outside the purview of this book and will not be covered.
Increased coffee consumption was suggested as a minor risk factor for osteoporosis in some earlier studies, but no differences were found in more recent research. It’s also important to note that different varieties of coffee have varying mineral contents. Overall, one cup of coffee a day appears to have no negative effects on bone health or minerals, but excessive use may
WATER WITH LOW MINERAL CONTENT
There are differences in the minerals found in bottled water and municipally supplied drinking water. Clinical research indicates that consuming bicarbonate and potassium-rich water reduced bone resorption and urine excretion of calcium. That means bone is being better preserved. Mineral waters that are high in potassium, magnesium, medium calcium, and low in sodium are beneficial for general health in addition to their benefits for the heart and bones. Fluids lacking in minerals may be counterproductive to health.
In addition to raising cortisol levels, stress disrupts other hormones that help the body absorb minerals. This could result in more frequent urination, poorer absorption of minerals, and loss of vital minerals.
