How to Settle Your Stomach Without Antacids

If you're always popping over-the-counter antacids to calm your queasy stomach, you're doing yourself more harm than good. Stomach acid is vital for food digestion. When you take antacids constantly, you cut down on the acid you need at mealtimes, which could even raise your cholesterol.

Can you give up antacids and still settle your stomach? Here are some tummy tips from Dr. Andrew Rubman, naturopathic physician at the Southbury Clinic in Connecticut:

• Don't snack between meals. Your stomach will start pumping acid when you don't need it.
• Don't overeat. Leave room for dessert, but then skip it.
• Avoid fried foods. These can inflame your intestines.
• Eat sauerkraut. The enzymes released during the fermentation process of the cabbage will neutralize a sour stomach.