Indigestion is a common condition characterized by abdominal discomfort. In some cases, bloating, heartburn, uncomfortable fullness, belching and nausea can occur. Indigestion typically is not serious, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, unless you also experience unexplained weight loss or difficulty swallowing. Eating appropriate amounts of food in a relaxed manner, managing stress, taking over-the-counter antacids when symptoms appear and consuming a healthy diet may improve symptoms.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir are cultured milk products that contain probiotics -- healthy, or "friendly," bacteria that promote digestive health and may help prevent infections associated with harmful bacteria. Carrying excessive amounts of potentially damaging bacteria in your digestive tract can lead to bloating, gas and digestive pain, according to dietitian Debra Boutin. In a television interview, Boutin described beneficial probiotic sources as "any food that contains actual live bacteria." To make sure your yogurt and kefir selections provide probiotic benefits, examine food packaging for "live active cultures," such as lactobacillus acidophilus or bifidobacterium bifidus.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide rich amounts of antioxidants -- nutrients that enhance your body's ability to fend off infections and disease. Since fiber-rich foods, fruits and vegetables may help alleviate indigestion symptoms associated with constipation. If high-fiber foods trigger gas or bloating -- the case for some people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center -- consume cooked or pealed fruits and vegetables most often. If you eat a low-fiber diet, increase your intake of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, such as berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens and squash, gradually to allow your body time to adjust. Garlic, bananas and onions are considered prebiotic sources -- foods that enhance the growth of healthy bacteria. Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet for the broadest nutritional benefits.
Whole Grains
Whole grains, such as oats, barley, whole wheat, bulgur, popcorn and brown rice, are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber. As low-glycemic carbohydrate sources, whole grains have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels and enhance appetite control, heart-health and weight management. Since maintaining a healthy body weight is important for preventing indigestion, according to the Mayo Clinic, replacing enriched breads, pasta, cereals and snack foods with whole grain equivalents may reduce your symptoms. Whole grains also provide nutritious alternatives to high-fat carbohydrate sources, such as potato chips, onion rings and pastries -- foods that may interfere with digestion.
Lean Protein Sources
Protein helps your body develop and repair lean tissue and promotes lasting energy. Since protein digests slowly, protein-rich foods also have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels and can help you manage your appetite. Replace potential indigestion trigger foods, such as high-fat red and processed meats, with leaner alternatives for best results. Examples of nutritious, protein-rich foods are low-fat dairy or soy products, legumes, skinless white meat poultry and fish.
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