Imagine having a plate of your favorite food and yet finding it difficult to even take a bite? Usually our foods are filled with spices and taking them on a regular basis can be heavy on the body. A lot of us suffer from indigestion at some point in our lives due to eating heavy foods for a long time. Without poor lifestyle habits indigestion can be a long term problem.
What is meant by indigestion?
Indigestion is generally referred to as a bad stomach or upset stomach. It generally refers to many gastrointestinal problems. It can be the major sign of an underlying gastro condition.
What are the common signs that indicate indigestion?
The most common signs of indigestion include:
- Feeling of full within a few spoons
- Uncomfortable feeling while or after eating
- Acid regurgitation
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
If you are noticing any of these signs, reach out to a gastro hospital in Coimbatore to seek immediate help.
What are the four best herbs that help to soothe your stomach?
Indigestion isn’t always a huge problem. But luckily, there are a lot of home remedies that can help ease the pain and discomfort of indigestion and also help in improving your digestion.
Here are the herbs that help in easing the indigestion:
Chamomile:
Chamomile has been an elixir in home remedies. Chamomile is known to have shown greater results in easing constipation, indigestion, and other colic disorders. Chamomile is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that help in managing the burn and inflammation that is caused due to indigestion. It can also help in calming the bloating. But it is important to consult your indigestion specialist before taking chamomile in your routine.
Fennel seeds:
Fennel, a well-known traditional post-meal digestive stimulant, is known as a great home remedy for indigestion in Ayurveda. Fennel seeds contain quercetin and alkaloids can prevent vomiting, and also improves the gut flora. Fennel seeds have been used for indigestion problems from the centuries back. Introducing fennel in your diet can help improve digestion and also eases the inflammation.
Ginger:
The ginger plant, with its active gingerol compounds, proves highly effective in addressing diverse underlying factors of indigestion. For centuries, ginger has been proven as one of the finest foods for aiding digestion, calming an upset stomach, and also improves digestion. Its impressive reputation stems from its ability to stimulate the appetite, boosts the metabolism and reignites the digestive fire and improves the nutrient absorption, clears the gastrointestinal tract, and also promotes a smooth digestion.
Peppermint:
Peppermint, a refreshing and calming green herb, is a popular remedy for aiding digestion and relieving an upset stomach. Its menthol and flavonoid compounds work effectively to regulate stomach secretions, provide relief from mild acidity, and address the underlying causes of indigestion. However, individuals with gastroesophageal disorders may need to avoid peppermint as it can worsen the symptoms.
What are the various foods to avoid in case of indigestion issues?
Indigestion can be triggered by various factors, such as overeating, consuming irritating foods, or eating too quickly, causing discomfort and even pain. While indigestion may gradually subside, it can be quite uncomfortable. During such episodes, certain foods can worsen the condition, making the discomfort worse. Here are some of the most harmful offenders:
- Spicy foods: foods with high chili levels can lead to heartburn and inflammation of the stomach lining.
- Highly processed foods: Processed foods are generally filled with high levels of sodium.
- Dairy products: in few people foods like cheese, milk, curd can cause bloating
- Alcohol: Consuming alcohol in higher levels can irritate the lining of the stomach.
Seeking dyspepsia treatment is essential in case you are having consistent indigestion issues.
Does indigestion last for long?
After eating, you might experience symptoms of indigestion lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. The process of digesting a meal typically takes about 3-5 hours, during which your stomach breaks down the food before passing it on to your intestines. Throughout this time, your pancreas and gallbladder release bile and enzymes to aid in the digestion process. These organs, located in your epigastric region (upper middle abdomen), are where indigestion symptoms commonly arise.
What are the tips to prevent indigestion?
Avoid overeating in a single sitting, and also, try not to have dinner too late, allowing sufficient time for digestion before lying down. Take note of the foods and beverages that tend to trigger your indigestion symptoms and consider reducing their consumption if feasible. Some individuals discover that adopting overall healthy habits, such as getting adequate sleep, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight, can significantly alleviate their indigestion.
When should you reach out for immediate medical help?
Indigestion occurs to everyone, but prolonged indigestion is a concern. And if you have signs like,
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swallowing issues
- Stools with blood
- Constant nausea and vomiting
- Sudden weight loss
Important Takeaway:
Indigestion is a prevalent issue, typically not considered serious. However, when experienced frequently, it can escalate into a genuine concern, disrupting eating patterns, sleep, and overall quality of life. It is crucial to be attentive to persistent indigestion as it might be an indication of an underlying medical condition, albeit rarely a severe one. Given the complexity of the digestive system, numerous factors can influence its functioning and cause indigestion. Reach out to a gastroenterologist in Coimbatore if you are facing any issues with your digestion.
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