If you downed a triple-layer spicy meatball sub and extra-large root beer at lunch, there's a chance that you'll be headed back to the workplace with a touch of indigestion. Not everyone makes the connection between eating certain foods and the stomach gurgling and discomfort that can take place after, but learning the basics of indigestion can help you make smarter choices at lunch. Also known as "dyspepsia," the upper-abdominal discomfort associated with indigestion can include belching, bloating and nausea. It's also possible to feel burning or pain.
Causes
Lunchtime indigestion can take place thanks to a variety of factors. Alcohol and carbonated beverages sometimes contribute to indigestion; these factors are less of a factor for breakfast meals but might also contribute to indigestion at dinnertime. You might also feel indigestion while taking certain prescription medicines including antibiotics or some anti-inflammatory drugs, according to Better Medicine. If you skipped breakfast and feel ravenous by lunchtime, you might feel indigestion because you quickly chow down too much food. Some physical conditions, including gallstones, peptic ulcers or stomach inflammation, can also contribute to lunchtime indigestion. Hurriedly running errands after eating lunch can cause indigestion, since your body wants time to process food.
Treatment
Indigestion is a symptom rather than a disease, so treatment lies more in prevention than anything else. Most feelings of lunchtime indigestion should dissipate within a few hours, but seek medical attention if you're still experiencing pain or discomfort after that, according to The Cleveland Clinic.
Prevention
Forgo the spicy lunch truck tacos and triple-caffeinated blended coffee drink at lunch. Registered dietician Lisa Hark and physician Darwin Deen of Doctissimo suggest opting for small, low-fat meals throughout the day instead. Have fruit, pretzels or yogurt. This helps keep you from rushing through lunch; eating slowly and fully chewing food helps you avoid indigestion. If you get the chance, step outside the office or home for a short walk -- but avoid vigorous exercise. Workplace stress can also contribute to lunch indigestion, so take breaks for deep breathing or meditation. Also, steer clear of the workplace buffets commonly used to celebrate birthdays or retirement, since these can include high-fat or spicy items.
Etiquette
If indigestion strikes and you feel overcome with the urge to express associated bodily functions, observe proper etiquette by taking care of business in the privacy of the bathroom. You may choose to withhold "sound effects" if someone is using a nearby stall, according to a 2008 "Marie Claire" Cubicle Coach. On the other hand, if you're witness to another person's functions, etiquette dictates that you don't acknowledge the occurrence, as this can cause embarrassment.
