Acid indigestion, often referred to as simply indigestion or dyspepsia, is a collection of symptoms that occur in response to dietary habits, emotional factors and, in some cases, as symptoms of underlying illness. Most cases of indigestion are mild and treated effectively through dietary lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications. If your symptoms are severe, seek guidance from your doctor.
Eat Smaller Meals
Since overeating is a common cause of indigestion, consuming smaller meals may help prevent or lessen symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, chewing food more slowly may also help. Since people who eat quickly tend to overeat, slowing down will also help you better manage portion sizes. If you're unsure as to appropriate portion or meal sizes or have difficulty adhering to them, seek guidance from a trusted dietary professional. If you experience symptoms regardless of meal size, discuss your symptoms and alternative treatment measures with your doctor for best results.
Avoid Food and Beverage Triggers
Certain foods are known to exacerbate symptoms of acid indigestion. According to the Mayo Clinic, spicy foods, high-fat foods, high-fiber foods as well as caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic beverages, are common triggers of indigestion. Since people's triggers and symptoms vary, keeping a food diary that tracks food and beverage choices, amounts and when particular symptoms arise, may help you determine your personal triggers.
If you've recently begun partaking in a high-fiber diet, do not restrict fiber-rich foods entirely, as most of them, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains, are nutritious and valuable toward improving and maintaining health. Instead, gradually increase the amount of fiber you consume on a daily basis until your body adjusts. If you continue to experience symptoms, you may wish to limit specific high-fiber foods from your diet. Citrus fruits, tomatoes and cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage are common indigestion triggers.
Psychological or Medical Treatment
In some cases, indigestion is an underlying symptom of psychological disorders, such as major depression or anxiety disorder. According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, indigestion may also indicate a more serious physiological condition such as stomach ulcers. If you experience elongated periods of negative moods such as sadness, anxiety or loss of purpose, or if you've been diagnosed with a psychological disorder, seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional who can guide you toward appropriate treatment. If your symptoms, such as stomach pain, are severe or sudden or if your symptoms seem to carry on regardless of dietary or behavioral changes, seek medical testing and guidance from your doctor. In these cases, symptoms tend to dissipate once the underlying cause is properly treated.
