Indigestion is a term used to describe various discomforts in the upper abdomen or stomach, such as feeling bloated, having an upset stomach, heartburn, gas, and feeling full. In recent years, indigestion has become a common problem worldwide due to the pressures of progress, changes in lifestyle and diet, and the stress of urban life.
What are the main reasons for indigestion?
- Overeating often leads to indigestion. Excessive heat can also cause digestive problems.
- Eating heavy, oily, and spicy foods during festivals can lead to issues like abdominal pain, flatulence, belching, or diarrhea. Most of these are due to digestive disturbances.
- Eating after long intervals.
- Consuming highly flavored foods and drinking alcohol or wine can cause indigestion.
- Swallowing air during meals often leads to bloating or gas, contributing to indigestion.
- Certain medications can cause discomfort in the gastric mucosal lining.
- Additionally, indigestion can occur due to mental depression or stress.
Symptoms:
Indigestion symptoms include chest burning, discomfort in the abdomen, bloating, upset stomach or vomiting, changes in taste in the mouth, sudden sweating or belching, and pain. Symptoms typically worsen after meals, especially under mental stress or anxiety. Many people experience heightened symptoms before meetings or exams.
Here are some tips to alleviate common issues like indigestion, acidity, excessive stomach gas, belching, and flatulence:
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Avoid rushing while eating. Take your time and chew your food slowly. Eating hurriedly impairs proper digestion and can lead to swallowing air.
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Drinking excessive water during meals and between meals dilutes stomach acid, hindering proper food breakdown. Drink a glass of water at least 30 minutes before eating. Avoid drinking too much water during meals; instead, wait a while after eating.
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Everyone has different digestive sensitivities. Those with lactose intolerance should avoid dairy products. Some people have trouble with sugary foods (like fruit juice, chocolate, etc.), while others may have issues with bread, barley, or legumes. Recognize what causes discomfort for you and adjust your diet accordingly.
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Smoking, chewing gum, and drinking through straws can increase gas production. Avoid these practices.
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Artificial sugars and foods high in oils and fats can also contribute to stomach gas problems. Consume them in moderation.
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Constipation can exacerbate abdominal bloating. To prevent constipation, consume fibrous foods and drink adequate water.
Some natural remedies for indigestion:
If you have indigestion problems, you can cure this issue by following some natural remedies. Natural remedies are best for this type of problem.
Some essential oils: Some oils are very beneficial for indigestion problems, like peppermint oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil. Practice consuming these oils daily.
Probiotic food: Eating kanji rice or curd rice in the morning on an empty stomach will help grow good gut bacteria and improve your gut health. You can read our article “Kanji Rice for Gut Health” to learn about the benefits of kanji rice for gut health and find the recipe for making it.
Herbal tea: Drinking herbal tea is the best practice instead of drinking normal tea or coffee. Coffee can increase your indigestion problems. Start your day by drinking herbal tea like ginger tea, chamomile tea, cumin tea, or coriander seed tea.
Essential herbs: Some herbs are very essential for gut health, like ginger, clove, cumin, and coriander. If you want to know more about these herbs, read our article, “Several herbs assist with digestion.”
Fruits: Some fruits are very beneficial for digestive problems, like kiwi, apples, and watermelon. Eat these fruits once a day.
Indigestion is a very common problem in this world. You can cure this problem easily by developing good eating habits and leading a healthy lifestyle.