Treat Indigestion Naturally and Effectively: Home Remedies for Dyspepsia

Estimated 20-25% of the population suffers from indigestion or dyspesia to varying degree of severity. In most cases, the condition is associated with non specific symptoms which not only interfere with an individuals productivity. While use of antacids is most recommended, long term use is often associated with dreaded side effects. Here are some home remedies and natural treatment options that can help treat it effectively.

What Causes Indigestion?

Hiatus Hernia is a
cause for Indigestion

Dyspepsia occurs due to certain factors that raise the pressure within the abdomen, and thus, cause the contents of the stomach to move up in to the esophagus. The following factors have been considered to be high risk factors,

• Remaining hungry for prolonged intervals of time
• Over eating or consumption foods that are very spicy or oily. Higher consumption of processed foods or trans fats can also increase the frequency of dyspepsia
• Hiatus hernia
• Decreased tone of the esophageal sphincter
• Excessive consumption of carbonated and caffeinated drinks
• Having too much alcohol
• Smoking
• Obesity

Chronic conditions like esophageal cancer can also lead to it, espeically during the early stages of the disease.

Symptoms of Dyspepsia

While in most cases indigestion is linked with non specific symptoms of distress in the chest, there are some indicative symptoms,

• Retrosternal burning, which is usually aggravated on bleching or increased intra-abdominal pressure due to strenous activities.
• Abdominal bloating and flatulence
• Generalized discomfort and heaviness in the abdomen
• Abdominal cramps
• Occassional nausea with vomitting and recurrent episodes of water brash.  

Home Remedies to Treat Indigestion

Fennel Seeds help
treat indigestion

Here are some simple home remedies that can help in the management of indigestion and prevent the recurrence of dyspepsia.

• Fennel seeds: Munch on a tablespoon of fennel seeds after every meal. Fennel has powerful medicinal properties. It works as a spasmolytic and a wind reliever. It tones up the lining of the stomach and allays cramps, pain and abdominal discomfort.
• Caraway seeds: Caraway seeds can ease gastric distress. The seeds are an excellent carminative and help in the discharge of wind. It treats flatulence and bloating of the abdomen successfully, relieving painful cramps and tightness in the abdomen almost instantaneously. It relaxes the entire gastrointestinal tract. Include caraway seeds in to your daily diet.
• Mint and Ginger Decoction: Mint is a brilliant digestive; and so is ginger. They help ease spasms of the alimentary canal and decrease formation of gas. Menthol present in mint is the principal component that produces a GI-comforting effect. Gingerols present in ginger lessen inflammation and pain associated with gastric derangements. Drinking 250 ml of mint and ginger tea every morning helps ward off dyspeptic attacks effectively.

Prevent dyspepsia Naturally

Chronic and continual indigestion can be a big cause of worry. If neglected, it could develop in to a grave disease. There is a strong probability of developing irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis or peptic ulcer over a period of time. These guidelines will help you ward off indigestion and gastrointestinal derangements: 

• Don’t stay hungry for long periods of time. Have a small snack every 3 hours.
• Do not rush through your meal. Always consume food in a calm and leisurely atmosphere.
• Eat small, frequently meals through the day, avoid large, heavy ones.
• Limit your intake of caffeinated carbonated beverages.
• Quit smoking and limit the consumption of alcohol
• Never lie down after a meal. Sit erect for about 30 minutes after eating, in order to prevent regurgitation of acid or food.