The first reaction when you get a stomach upset- what did I eat? Then trickles a surprising range of causes - The spicy curry? The third cup of coffee that tipped the scales? The street food vendor; were his hands dirty? But what is stomach upset and why does it happen? At some point in time, we all have gone through this experience, which made us question our life choices.
Let’s learn about indigestion or stomach upset and also about some common remedies for all stomach problems.
What is Indigestion?
In simple terms, when your tummy feels uncomfortable or bloated after eating, and there’s a nausea-like feeling, you are said to have indigestion or functional dyspepsia. The signs and symptoms often include:
- Nausea
- Burping
- A burning sensation in the stomach or chest
- Feeling uncomfortably full
- Diarrhea or constipation
Sometimes it’s accompanied by a feeling of heaviness that doesn’t seem to go away. If ignored, it can disrupt your daily routine and leave you feeling drained.
Why Does It Happen?
Indigestion can be caused by several factors:
- Deficiency of digestive enzymes
- Eating heavy or greasy meals
- Stress and anxiety
- Irregular eating habits
- Lack of appetite due to illness
Stress is a major contributor to indigestion. When you’re anxious, your body’s digestive processes slow down, making it harder for your stomach to do its job. Skipping meals or eating at odd hours also takes a toll on your digestive health. Similarly, a deficiency in essential nutrients can make your digestive system weak over time.
Foods to the Rescue
When dealing with indigestion, easy-to-eat foods are your best friends. Here are some great options:
Bananas: Bananas are a rich source of potassium. When you have stomach upset, your body fluids are lost due to diarrhea or vomiting, making your body require electrolytes.
Coconut water: This is another option to get your electrolyte revived. It is the best hydrating fluid with lots of minerals to have when you have stomach issues.
Probiotic Foods: Yogurt, buttermilk, and fermented foods introduce good bacteria into your system, which aids digestion. A classic comfort food, curd rice is light, soothing, and packed with probiotics that help restore balance to your gut. It’s particularly effective when you’re feeling nauseous or bloated.
Detox Water: Sip on detox water infused with lemon, cucumber, or mint to flush out toxins and soothe your stomach. Hydration is important whether healthy or unhealthy.
Remedies for stomach upset relief
If your stomach needs a little extra help, here are some options:
Laxatives: The cause of your stomach upset can also be constipation and for that mild laxatives can provide relief by promoting bowel movement or motion. However, use them carefully, and never use them without consulting a doctor.
Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller portions can prevent overloading your stomach. Instead of three large meals, try six smaller ones throughout the day to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.
Herbal Teas: Ginger or peppermint tea can reduce nausea and improve digestion. For centuries, teas were part of natural remedies for stomach issues.
Fasting: A brief period of fasting gives rest to your stomach. Don’t fast for longer durations as it may cause acidity. Once your stomach feels lighter, you can start having solid foods gradually.
Herbal Medicines: Ayurvedic medicine for stomach problems that cures constipation, gas, acidity, indigestion, and other digestive issues comes in handy when you are seeking a safer and natural remedy.
Preventive Measures
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to avoid indigestion in the first place:
Chew Slowly: Take your time while eating. Let your teeth work more in breaking down food than your digestive system.
Eat less: Eating too much at once can burden your stomach and lead to discomfort.
Keep Moving: Dump sedentary lifestyle. Take a short walk after meals to maintain a healthy digestive system and to keep obesity at bay.
Lifestyle: Stress-bursting practices like meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can greatly reduce the chances of indigestion. Don’t forget to get a good nap, as sleep deficiency can directly impact your digestive system.
Takeaway Tips
- Listen to your stomach. If you’re feeling off, opt for light, easy-to-digest meals.
- Avoid spicy or oily foods that could worsen the symptoms.
- Include probiotics in your daily diet to keep your gut happy.
Conclusion
Indigestion though a small issue can be a red flag that your body needs your attention. Small changes in your diet and lifestyle can greatly help your digestive system making you overall healthy. Keep your gut healthy as it rewards you with good energy and an active life.