Common causes of indigestion (Dyspepsia) are too much or too little acid in the stomach, a bacterial or fungal infection, nervous tension, overeating, difficulty in breaking down fatty acids, constipation, over-activity of stomach muscles, wind rising from the stomach, disturbed rhythms and eating food too quickly. Hiatus hernia or too much stomach acid will cause heartburn. Too little hydrochloric acid or digestive enzymes will cause a feeling of indigestion after a meal. A fungal infection or bacterial imbalance in the gut will also result in the symptoms of indigestion. Nervous tension affects the digestive system which causes a lack of secretions causing indigestion. Overeating causes tension on the stomach wall which in tern causes nausea. Problems with breaking down fatty foods would cause the stomach to empty slowly. Constipation could cause problems with back pressure from a toxic bowel. Over-activity of stomach muscles especially at the exit from the stomach to the small intestines which may result in the reverse flow of food which can force food upwards into the oesophagus or even mouth to cause symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. Nausea and the sense of fullness can be cause by trapped wind in the stomach. Shift workers can be prone to indigestion because of the changed time that they eat which interferes with the natural rhythms of digestion. Eating too quickly, too much and not chewing properly will put pressure on the digestive process by overloading the stomach making it less efficient. To tackle to problem of indigestion it is best to chew food properly, slowly, not to overeat or eat late at night. To avoid stomach irritants such as alcohol, coffee, and too avoid concentrated proteins. Take digestive enzymes and probiotics. Take a walk after eating to encourage the digestion process. The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Indigestion. Artichoke Digestive enzymes Multivitamin and multiminerals Peppermint Probiotics Vitamin C |
