Indigestion or dyspepsia commonly known as heartburn is one of the most common health problems every human being faces which can happen at any age. It causes a great deal of discomfort and pain so it is important to treat it immediately as it could lead to a lot of other serious problems. Indigestion is nothing but the acids present in your stomach that move up your esophagus pipe which connects the stomach to the mouth. Indigestion problems are caused when you eat certain foods that are not healthy or do not agree with your stomach. Acid reflux and indigestion could also happen if you eat fast, overeat, drink a lot of alcohol, wine and carbonated drinks and smoke. Sometimes stress and anxiety and certain anti-inflammatory medicines are also responsible for indigestion problems. Some of the symptoms of acid reflux and indigestion are; stomach ache, nausea, bloating, uncontrolled burping, heartburn and flatulence.
Some foods that cause gas and bloating of the stomach are:
- Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and beans can cause gas and bloating whether eaten raw or cooked.
- Milk products such as yogurt, milk and cheese.
- Bakery products such as cakes, muffins, breads, waffles and cookies cause a lot of gas and bloating because of the wheat content in them.
- Fruits such as prunes, apples and pears.
- Starchy foods such as potatoes, noodles, rice and corn.
- Soluble fiber foods such as cereals and peas should also be avoided.
Other than avoiding these foods you should also take certain precautions to avoid indigestion problems. These methods would include; avoiding usage of tight fitting clothes and walking for 30 minutes everyday. Practice yoga and meditation to reduce stress levels, avoid strenuous active sports soon after your meals, eat on time and chew your food well. Some home remedies that will give you quick relief from indigestion problems are as follows:
- Mix apple cider vinegar and a tablespoon of lemon juice in a glass of warm water and drink it before every meal.
- Drink mint essence mixed with water 4 to 5 times a day as it will help cool your stomach and improve digestion.
- Drink some water with half a teaspoon of carom seeds and a pinch of rock salt.
- Herbal teas like blackberry, mint, chamomile and ginger tea after meals improve digestion and stop heartburns.
- Mix 5 to 6 chopped basil leaves, quarter teaspoon sea salt, a little black pepper in 3 Tablespoons of curd and eat it. Have this 4 to 5 times a day for a week to better your condition.
answered by G R
A stomach upset or dyspepsia is commonly referred to as Indigestion. Indigestion is most often believed to be a disease or illness, however this is not true. Indigestion is a series of symptoms that leads to discomfort in the upper abdominal region of the digestive tract. Some of the most common symptoms experienced by an individual with indigestion are belching, nausea and bloating. Indigestion is a common condition and is experienced by all, from the rich to the poor alike. Even children as young as 3 months in age may experience indigestion.
Indigestion is caused due to various reasons that range from life style related conditions, to other digestive disorders. The following are some of the causes that can trigger a bout of indigestion - eating spicy food, overeating, eating too fast, talking while eating, eating oily food. The over consumption of coffee and alcohol and smoking excessively can also cause indigestion. Antibiotic drugs also weaken the stomach lining, which may lead to indigestion. Emotional stress or nervousness can also cause indigestion. Functional dyspepsia is said to occur when an accurate cause for indigestion cannot be found even after medical evaluation. This condition disables the stomach’s capacity for digesting food and passing it on to the small intestine. Lactose intolerance can also be a cause for indigestion.
Since indigestion is a common ailment there are many ways of treating it. However, implementing life style changes have proven to be the most beneficial over a period of time. Following these simple suggestions will help you overcome your condition effectively.
- Do not overeat. Overeating causes the stomach to release additional amounts of acids in order to digest the food. These acids when present in increased levels cause damage to the stomach lining. Instead of eating 3 heavy meals a day it would be better to consume 6 meals of smaller proportions a day. This gives the body enough time to digest the food consumed properly, thus reducing your risk of experiencing indigestion.
- Avoid eating oily food. Oily and fried foods are very hard to digest. Additionally they increase the acidic level of the stomach. Red meats have a similar effect and are best avoided.
- Drinking plenty of water will ensure that your body remains well hydrated throughout your day. Water also ensures that the acidic level of the stomach is maintained by flushing out harmful toxins from the body.
- Consuming unflavored yogurt if you are lactose tolerant will also help you improve your condition. Yogurt contains lactobacillus a useful bacteria that helps in aiding digestive functions.
- Consuming foods rich in fiber content will also help you considerably.
- Increasing the amount of garlic and ginger in your daily diet will also bring you considerable relief.
- Lastly, avoiding alcohol and smoking will also help you get over this condition effectively.
However, if your condition persists, please do not hesitate to visit a doctor who will prescribe you with the most suitable treatment for your condition.
answered by c