What is indigestion?
Indigestion, or dyspepsia as its also known, is often characterized by a painful or even burning feeling in the upper belly area and a feeling of fullness. Along with medically diagnosed IBS, dyspepsia is one of the most common functional digestive disorders.
When you get indigestion or an upset stomach, the digestion of your food is impaired in the short term. This often causes other symptoms such as:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Abdominal cramps
- Heartburn
What causes indigestion?
The symptoms of functional indigestion are varied and so are the reasons behind them. The triggers of indigestion can be extremely diverse - in some cases, several causes can be responsible simultaneously. While sometimes the cause is a more serious issue, most often it is simply the consequence of enjoying too much food, eating too fast or being stressed. The most common causes of an upset stomach are:
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Diet: Foods that can contribute to indigestion include those that are high in fat or sugars, greasy food, spices, spoiled food, coffee and alcohol. Hastily eating, combined with insufficient chewing or taking large bites plays a similar role.
- Stress: When stressed the body releases hormones that limit the functions of the digestive system contributing to indigestion.
As mentioned, it’s important to not mistake your symptoms for something more serious. If your symptoms have persisted for more than seven days a month for the last three months or if you are concerned please consult your healthcare professional as they can advise you on appropriate treatment recommendations.
Tips to relieve indigestion
Although experts have not yet found a cure, there are things you can do to relieve and limit digestive symptoms associated with the condition.
- Eat right: As well as eating foods that are easier to digest, also consider adapting the way you eat. It is best to slowly eat several small meals throughout the day, while paying attention to your chewing.
- Take notes: Keeping a journal of your mood, meals and symptoms to help you identify and avoid triggers.
- Keep Calm: Set clear limits to everyday stress, and use breathing exercises and techniques regularly.
How can Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief help?
The treatment of indigestion differs depending on the cause. Medications that target and alleviate several symptoms and possible causes simultaneously are particularly suitable.
Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief is effective on several parts of the digestive tract simultaneously (multi-targeted). Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief eases indigestion by stimulating the muscles in your digestive system, preventing excess acid and relieving indigestion.