Causes and Natural Remedies of Indigestion

Posted by sanjay on Thursday 23 Apr 2009

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Indigestion, or dyspepsia, occurs when the digestive juices in the body are not secreted correctly, resulting in stomach discomfort. One primary reason for this condition is the combination and variety of foods consumed by the affected person.

Causes of Indigestion
Some of the causes of indigestions are eating too rapidly, not taking the time to thoroughly chew the food, eating undercooked foods, a sedentary lifestyle, not getting enough exercise, allergies (primarily food allergies to foods such as onions, seafood, nuts), overeating, stomach ulcers, acid reflux disease, other digestive disorders, an inadequate or unbalanced diet, use of tobacco products, and drinking alcohol to excess.

Symptoms
Among the many symptoms of indigestion are bloated stomach, burping or belching, feeling full, upset stomach (with or without nausea), heartburn, and a burning sensation in the throat and/or chest.

Medical remedies used for indigestion/heartburn
Prescription antacid remedies (in liquid or pill form) and over-the-counter antacid remedies (in liquid or pill form).

Home remedies for Indigestion
Drink 4 ounces of pineapple juice before or after meals to reduce indigestion; mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with hot water and drink before eating to prevent indigestion;
mix equal amounts of baking soda and water and drink to relieve indigestion; chew a small amount of salted ginger before eating to stimulate good digestion.

Mix 1 tsp of cumin seeds with water and drink to aid digestion; eat oranges for good nutrition. They are also good for the digestive organs; eat grapes to reduce indigestion and stomach irritation; drink ginger tea after eating to promote a healthy digestive system and to prevent an upset stomach; eat peppermint to ease heartburn.

Helpful tips for indigestion and heartburn sufferers
Use cold packs on the stomach area for 30 minutes after eating meals; follow a well-balanced, high-fiber diet and avoid rich, spicy, fat-laden, or junk foods; drink plenty of water (8 to 10 glasses per day); eat slowly and take the time to thoroughly chew your food; develop a good exercise program and stick to it; stop using tobacco products; reduce intake of alcoholic beverages.