7 Tips For Indigestion Prevention And Relief

We all suffer from indigestion every now and then. Indigestion is usually not a serious condition. In fact it is not a disease as we sometimes think of it but rather a collection of uncomfortable symptoms in the upper abdomen. Most of the time we experience indigestion during and after a meal. The cause is not always clear but most of the known causes seem to be associated with the digestive system. However, there are some instances where these symptoms  that we think of as indigestion may be linked to other organs and even serious conditions like a heart problem.

Why does indigestion occur?

The symptoms that are typically associated with indigestion includes:

• Nausea
• Stomach bloating
• Abdominal fullness
• Stomachache
• Heartburn

Two of the common causes of indigestion are acid reflux and aerophagia (air swallowing). Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is where the stomach acid flows backwards up into the foodpipe (esophagus). Air swallowing causes air to accumulate in your upper git where it can cause discomfort until it is belched out. Overeating is another problem as the stomach does not empty out fast enough and reflux may occur. Other causes that may sometimes present with the symptoms of indigestion includes peptic ulcer disease (PUD), gastritis, gallstones, pancreatitis and a hiatal hernia.

If you ever experience indigestion along with dizziness, left arm pain, profuse sweating and breathlessness then you need to see a doctor immediately. It is probably not indigestion. Remember that the typical cardiac pain in the chest area that is portrayed in the media does not always occur with heart problems. Often people experience a mild discomfort in the abdomen or heartburn yet it is cardiac in origin. And there are cases where a person does not even experience any cardiac symptoms despite having a mild heart attack. This is known as a silent heart attack.

Eat and Drink Slowly

Most of us eat on the go these days as daily commitments leave little time for a long meal. Another problem is being distracted while eating a meal, like watching TV while eating. As a result we tend to take too large bites, swallow before chewing thoroughly and drink too fast while taking in a lot of air. It this eating and drinking behavior that plays a major role in indigestion. Instead take small bites and chew slowly. Ensure that your food is thoroughly chewed before you swallow. The same applies to drinking beverages. Take small sips rather than large gulps.

Have More Smaller Meals

It is not just eating and drinking too fast but also the quantity that we eat per meal which can be a problem. The convenience of modern life coupled with a fast food culture where bigger is better means that meals are often larger than what we should be eating. Furthermore the time constraints in life means we would rather stock up extra during traditional meal times. But there is no need to starve yourself. Rather eat smaller meals several times in a day than the three large meals – 3 medium-sized meals and 2 small snacks.

Avoid Trigger Foods and Drinks

Some foods and drinks are more likely to trigger indigestion. Typically spicy foods, heavily processed foods and fatty foods are more of a problem. Caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks are other known triggers of indigestion. It is not always necessary to avoid these foods and drinks altogether. Consuming it in moderation and occasionally may not pose as much a problem. However, if even small amounts tend to trigger indigestion then you should avoid it completely.

Sit Up Straight Or Take A Stroll

Lying down or sleeping after a meal, especially a large meal, is often a problem when it comes to indigestion. Rather sit up straight or move around to help with digestion. Make a habit of walking around after eating and even if you cannot get a little exercise in this way, stand up and do the dishes or other chores. But do not exercise vigorously after a meal. This can actually cause indigestion. Try to avoid heavy meals as it can make you feel sleepy. Similarly you should not eat too late in the night or you may be forced to go to bed without waiting for your food to digest.

Stay Calm And Talk Less

Getting agitated when eating or talking excessively during meal time can also be a problem. You may end up eating faster than you normally would and swallowing air that can lead to indigestion. Rather sit down to a quiet meal. Listen more than you talk and avoid topics that may end up stressing you out. Try relaxing even after a meal. You do not have to sit still but avoid partaking in any activity that may stress you out. Try some deep breathing and meditation even when you have indigestion.

Loosen Your Belt Or Clothing

It seems quite natural to undo some of your clothing when you are suffering with indigestion. Tight clothing or a tight belt increases the pressure on your abdomen. You may be able to manage with the pressure during the course of the day but after a meal in can contribute to acid reflux and indigestion. Although it is not considered appropriate to do it in public, loosening some of your clothing can be helpful. It can be a matter of undoing a few buttons of your shirt or a notch or two off your belt.

Take OTC Indigestion Medication

Simple OTC remedies for indigestion may help you belch to release some of the trapped air in the stomach, neutralize your stomach acid or form a foam on top of your stomach contents in order to prevent the acid from irritating your foodpipe. These OTC medication can be purchased from most convenience stores and supermarkets and are very effective for the occasional episode of indigestion. However, if you are experiencing severe or recurrent indigestion then your doctor may prescribe medication to suppress your stomach acid or speed up emptying of the stomach.