Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is the term for digestive discomfort felt in the upper abdomen and associated with improper eating habits or other digestive conditions. A number of symptoms and cause of indigestion; but fortunately, it is not a disease and can be prevented safely and easily. Because indigestion is a highly individualized experience and can take a number of forms and causes, consider your specific symptoms before taking preventative action and consult your doctor if the condition persists.
Modify Diet And Eating Habits
Step 1
Avoid big, heavy meals and opt in favor of smaller, more frequent servings of healthy, balanced foods without excess fat or spice.
Step 2
Chew your food slowly and completely.
Step 3
Minimize caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverage intake when eating.
Step 4
Drink herbal peppermint tea after meals. According to MayoClinic.com, peppermint tea may help ease symptoms of indigestion in some individuals.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Step 1
Start a regular exercise routine to help keep you trim and healthy while simultaneously aiding digestion.
Step 2
Make time for at least 30 minutes of daily aerobic exercise -- but be sure to wait an hour or two after eating to perform strenuous physical activity.
Step 3
Take measures to manage stress with healthy behaviors on a daily basis. Activities such as yoga, meditation may help reduce stress, improve sleep patterns and further aid in the prevention of indigestion.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that indigestion can have many causes, most of which are related to dietary imbalance and lifestyle practices and can be prevented by following the steps above. Simply eating too fast or a bit too much can cause indigestion, while other times specific substances such as high-fat or very spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol or carbonated beverages impede digestion and cause discomfort. According to MayoClinic.com, non-dietary factors, including smoking, medications, nervousness and emotional trauma, can also contribute to indigestion. In rare cases, indigestion may be a symptom of gastritis, pancreatitis, ulcers, gallstones or stomach cancer.
- Consult your physician before taking these steps to prevent indigestion if you have any of the digestive diseases listed above, or if your condition persists or worsens.
Things You'll Need
- Low-fat, healthy foods
- Caffeine, alcohol and carbonation-free beverages
- Herbal peppermint tea
