|  | Conditions Treatments | Heartburn GERD

Diets for Indigestion Sufferers

Indigestion is the term used for a feeling of being over-full or uncomfortable during or after eating. This feeling can be accompanied by heartburn, a burning or pain in the upper stomach. Anyone can get an upset stomach now and then, but chronic indigestion could be the symptom of a larger problem such as ulcers or GERD (gastroesophogeal reflux disease).

  1. Foods to Avoid

    • Some people react differently to different foods, so keep track of which foods seem to bring on symptoms of indigestion. In general, to avoid triggering indigestion, avoid spicy foods like peppers, acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes, foods with caffeine including chocolate and coffee, and carbonated beverages like sodas. Alcohol, greasy and fried foods are also indigestion triggers. Certain kinds of medication can also be triggers and you should talk to your doctor if you think your medication is causing indigestion.

    Journal

    • Keeping a food and activity journal can help you identify patterns in your indigestion. For example, you might not notice that a short walk after a meal reduces the occurrence of indigestion. Write down what you eat, what time you eat, activity of any kind and the times of the activity, and the time you go to bed. After a few weeks, take your journal to the doctor to discuss your symptoms and possibly get treatment.

    BRAT Diet

    • You may wish to rely on the BRAT diet until your indigestion symptoms pass. Then you may slowly reintroduce normal foods into the diet. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Some people find relief by also including yogurt or teas in the BRAT diet. Once your stomach feels better, slowly begin eating your normal diet.

    How to Eat

    • Besides the foods you eat, be aware of how you eat. Eat slowly, eat smaller meals, take small bites, and chew thoroughly. If you talk a lot while chewing, this forces air into the stomach, which can trigger indigestion. Do not lie down immediately after eating.

    See a Doctor

    • If your symptoms get worse, it could mean something more serious than indigestion. Go to the doctor or the emergency room immediately if you have unusual indigestion or pains that might indicate a heart attack. Symptoms of a heart attack include shortness of breath, unusual sweating, radiating pain to the jaw, neck, arms, or across the back. Other serious symptoms are vomiting, unusual weight loss or loss of appetite, and severe pain in the abdomen.

Heartburn GERD - Related Articles