We all enjoy eating delicious foods and relish our taste buds, however, if you happen to eat too fast or intake a large portion of food then we may occasionally have trouble digesting food. Indigestion is a common issue that can make us feel bloated even if we have not eaten anything and it can take a toll on your health. Also Read: Bloating: Try These Kitchen Wonders To Soothe Bloated Tummy
Indigestion is not a disease, it is a symptom of other digestive issues like ulcer, gastritis, or GERD. Indigestion is caused when the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, resulting in inflammation and causes irritation. Also Read: 5 Herbs For A Healthy Digestive System
Some of the underlying causes of indigestion include overeating, stomach infections, ulcers, acidity, smoking, alcohol, thyroid, and irritable bowel syndrome, intake of deep-fried and spicy foods, poor sleep patterns and stress.
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In these days of lockdown where people are confined at home and sedentary lifestyle becoming a habit, this may also lead to indigestion and other digestive woes.
Symptoms
- Acid reflux
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Belching
- Pain
- Feeling of fullness
- Burning sensation
- Bad breath
- Hiccups
Prevention
The uneasiness caused due to indigestion can be managed by modifying lifestyle habits. Healthy eating and drinking practices facilitate proper digestion. Here are a few preventive measures:
- Adequate hydration helps in the smooth digestion.
- Drink fluids after food and not during your meal.
- Avoid eating fast, take small intermediary meals and take time when eating.
- Chew food with your mouth closed to prevent swallowing air.
- Sit straight while eating.
- To prevent acid reflux from coming up while sleeping, keep your head and shoulder elevated.
Indigestion though not a severe condition has to be attended to subside the symptoms. A rich array of kitchen ingredients serve as effective natural remedies in calming down your stomach.
Natural Remedies That Provide Quick Relief From Indigestion:
Fennel Seeds
Fennels seeds have been suggested as an age-old natural remedy by our mothers to cure several digestive woes. The potent antispasmodic properties of fennel seeds work wonders in treating indigestion and also in easing stomach cramps, nausea and bloating. Simply chew few fennel seeds soon after the food if you have indigestion. You can also drink fennel water to get relieved from indigestion. In a pan take half a cup of water and add half a teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds, allow it boil well for 10 minutes and drink this water.
Ginger
Ginger is an effective remedy for indigestion as it helps in lessening the excess stomach acid secretion. It has the potential to reduce inflammation in the lining of the stomach, lessen irritation and stimulate the process of digestion. Sip on a cup of warm ginger tea to soothe indigestion. In addition, you can also take ginger candy, drink ginger ale or simply drink ginger water flavoured with honey or lemon to treat indigestion.
Pepper Mint Tea
The natural cooling properties of peppermint works amazingly well to calm the irritated stomach lining and promote digestion. Besides this, an antispasmodic effect of peppermint assists to get relieved from gastrointestinal woes like nausea and indigestion. Drink peppermint tea soon after food to get respite from indigestion issues.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a storehouse of antioxidants eugenol, cinnamaldehyde and linalool that helps to stimulate digestion and lessen the damage in the gastrointestinal tract. Drink a cup of cinnamon tea to settle flatulence, bloating, abdominal cramping and belching. Moreover, cinnamon tea assists to neutralise stomach acid secretions which help to lessen heartburn and stomach irritation. Drinking cinnamon tea thrice daily helps in relieving indigestion.
Ajwain
Ajwain is an amazing herb to treat several gastrointestinal woes including indigestion, acidity and flatulence. The active enzymes in ajwain seeds stimulate the secretion of gastric juices which helps in the smooth digestion process. Drinking warm ajwain water regularly is beneficial in treating indigestion and also eases stomach pain.
Foods That Helps To Reduce Indigestion
Reflux symptoms may usually occur when stomach acid touches the oesophagus causing irritation and pain. Adding specific foods into your meal plan supports mitigating symptoms associated with indigestion and acid reflux.
Vegetables
Vegetables are low in sugar and fat content, which naturally help to reduce stomach acid secretions. Some of the best choices of vegetables include green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, green leafy vegetables, potatoes and cucumbers.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a good source of complex carbs and dietary fibre that boost energy levels. A diet high in fibre has been associated with a low risk of indigestion. Other fibre-rich food options include brown rice, wheat, brown bread and millets.
Fruits
Non-citrus fruits such as melons, bananas, apples and pears are less likely to cause indigestion symptoms than acidic fruits.
Lean Meats
Lean meat such as fish, chicken, seafood and eggs are low in fat and a source of healthy fatty acids and proteins that lower symptoms. Have them grilled, broiled, baked or poached to minimise the spice and oil used while cooking.