5 natural remedies for indigestion relief
Indigestion also called stomach upset is a feeling of pain or discomfort in the upper stomach. Its signs are gas/bloated stomach, growling stomach, nausea, sometimes vomiting, belching, heartburn, abdominal pain, etc.
The overproduction or underproduction of stomach acid is often a factor in the occurrence of indigestion. Indigestion is similar to heartburn/acid reflux, upper GI pain, ulcer, bloating, gas, etc.
It is a symptom of various digestive conditions in the body or as a result of habits such as food intolerance, overeating, drinking too much, etc.
For most people, indigestion is not something to be worried about, it’s probably caused by a habit, diet, or lifestyle. If you continue to experience indigestion despite making efforts or using remedies for relief, you might want to see a doctor for further investigation
foods for indigestion Relief
If you are experiencing indigestion, the following foods are helpful for relief:
- Yoghurt – Its probiotics are helpful in restoring gut bacteria and aids digestion
- Papaya – The enzyme papain aids digestion and improves gut health
- Oatmeal – This helps soothe the stomach and enhances digestion with its high fiber content
- Banana – This fruit is known for its high pottasium and fiber which aids digestion and soothes the stomach when irritated
- Bread – It is hard to go wrong with bread when battling indigestion, heartburn, stomach bug, etc.
- Plain boiled/steamed rice – It should be eaten with a simple broth/soup without much spicing or oil.
- Whole grains
It is best to avoid oily, fatty, fizzy, processed, and acidic foods while dealing with indigestion or they will make your situation worse. Opt for these simple healthy food options until the indigestion passes.
What to do when you experience indigestion
Once you experience digestion, you should do the following for relief:
- Cut down on or just stop the consumtion of teas, cola, coffee and/or alcohol for the rest of the day
- Avoid laying down and if you must, prop your head up to a much higher level than your body to prevent stomach acid from moving up to your throat
- Consider losing weight of you are overweight as it can be a cause indigestion
- Avoid taking pills such as ibuprofen, aspirinn, etc. They can worsen indigestion. Try natural remdies instead
- Avoid smoking and smoking environments
- Avoid spicy, fatty, acidic or oily foods completely
- Relax for about an hour if you can. Stress by itself can cause indigestion
- If your clothes are tight, loosen them especially those around the chest aand abdomen
- Do not eat less than 3 hours to bedtime or lay down after eating
natural remedies For Relief
Activated Charcoal
The imbalance of stomach acid is often a major cause of indigestion. Activated charcoal is known as the natural alternative to over-the-counter antacids. It is a very effective remedy in some cases better than conventional antacids.
Activated charcoal absorbs excess stomach acid and balances the PH of the stomach quite well.
Take a capsule or a teaspoon of an activated charcoal powder in half a cup of water after a meal once you start to feel the obvious signs of incoming indigestion. The relief comes quickly within minutes but, only use it when needed.
ginger
The ginger root is a known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It helps aid digestion, calm nausea and vomiting, throat irritation and soothe irritated stomachs.
It is best used fresh unless you don’t have it, them the powder or capsule is the next best option. You should add it to your tea, chew on it, add it to soups, etc. It is best taken fresh not cooked.
Baking soda
Baking soda is a well-used antacid with good reviews but pregnant women should avoid it because it causes water retention in some among others.
Baking soda is known to neutralise stomach acid and help bloating, gas, and stomach pain which are all symptoms of indigestion
Add half a teaspoon of baking soda to half a cup of water, mix and drink it. Remember not to overdo it or use more than 2 teaspoons in 24 hours.
Honey
Honey’s antibacterial property helps soothe the irritated stomach and coat the lining of the esophagus to prevent irritation. It also stimulates the sphincter and prevents stomach acid from backing up to the throat.
Take 2 full tablespoons of honey during indigestion or if you can’t, add a little water to 2 tablespoons of honey in a cup and drink.
Do not eat or drink anything else for the next hour or so or until you feel better.
Chamomile tea
If your indigestion is caused by stress, this is the remedy you want to use. It is often used to reduce stress and calm the nerves by those suffering from illnesses such as anxiety.
Take a tea bag of chamomile tea for indigestion when you need relief from stress-induced gas, bloating, excessive stomach acid production, etc. which are symptoms of indigestion
Conclusion
Indigestion or stomach upset is usually a symptom of a problem and not a condition by itself. Therefore, you need to figure out what is causing your indigestion and eliminate it. Natural remedies can only do so much.
I wish you the best and I hope that you are able to conquer your indigestion soon. Do let me know of your experience with these remedies in the comment section below.
Thank you for stopping by and have a nice day.