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Indigestion is a common digestive problem experienced by most people at a point in their lives; it is characterized by a discomfort or pain in the upper part of the abdomen, it comes along with heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and it is medically known as dyspepsia or upset stomach.

This is a mild digestive problem, it occurs occasionally and there are little things you can do to ease this condition.

Symptoms of Indigestion

Symptoms usually occur after a meal; common symptoms of dyspepsia are:

  • Acid reflux and heartburn
  • Regurgitation of the foods into the gullet
  • Weight loss
  • Acidic taste in the mouth
  • Black stool
  • A burning sensation in the stomach
  • Feeling full or having a bloated stomach
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Belching
  • Blood in vomitus
  • Nausea, vomiting and a general feeling of being sick

SEE ALSO: Effective Home Remedies to Relieve a Bloated Stomach

Causes of Indigestion

When the stomach lining or the lining of the digestive system comes in contact with stomach acid; indigestion can occur. There are many factors that can damage the lining of the gastrointestinal tract; they are long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (painkiller drugs), indiscriminate and long-term use of antibiotics and an infection caused by H. pylori.

Other unhealthy lifestyles like chronic stress, drinking, smoking; unhealthy foods and poor nutrition can cause indigestion. Al these increases inflammation and this, in turn, will disrupt the lining of the stomach and intestines and cause increased sensitivity to stomach acid and digestive juices.

Some medical conditions like thyroid disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pancreatitis, pregnancy, gastroparesis, stomach infections, and stomach ulcers can cause indigestion.

Medications that can cause indigestion as side effects are painkillers (aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin)); oral contraceptives and estrogen, thyroid medicines, steroid medications and some antibiotics.

Effective Home Remedies for Indigestion

The following natural remedies can help you relieve indigestion fast at home.

SEE ALSO: Top Ten Natural and Herbal Remedies for Constipation

  1. Baking Soda

This substance can help treat indigestion caused by high levels of stomach acid because it is a natural antacid; it is a simple but effective remedy for indigestion, it neutralizes high concentration of stomach acid and relieves symptoms like heartburn.

Add a half teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of warm water and ingest; do this three times daily but do not use this remedy if you feel full after meals.

  1. Ginger

Ginger is a strong carminative herb that helps in the treatment of indigestion and other digestive issues; it ensures smooth flow of food in the intestine and it also stimulates the secretion and flow of digestive juices and enzymes to aid proper digestion.

Prevent indigestion by chewing on some fresh ginger root. You can also make homemade ginger tea before or after meals, it can also be added to meals because it is commonly used as a spice.

This will reverse indigestion and relieve its symptoms, like cramps, nausea, vomiting, bloating and stomach pain.

  1. Honey

Honey is rich in many phytochemicals and vital nutrients that help the digestive system to function properly; it reduces inflammation and it contains potassium which helps to relieve indigestion.

Take two tablespoons of raw original honey twice daily; you can add it to a glass of warm water or you can take it like that without adding it to water.

SEE ALSO: Top Ten Natural Remedies for Menstrual Pain

  1. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has the ability to soothe the stomach due to its rich content of saturated fats like capric and lauric acids; it destroys harmful microbes that can cause indigestion and other digestive problems.

Consume two tablespoons of pure and unrefined coconut oil daily; you can also use it to cook your meals.

  1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a strong antispasmodic property; it relaxes the digestive tract muscles and relieves inflammation and indigestion. Boil a cup of water and add an inch of cinnamon stick to it.

Leave it and let it steep for ten minutes and then you strain it; add some raw honey and your drink is ready. Repeat three times daily.

  1. Lemon and Ginger Tea

This is a powerful herbal tea for indigestion; it stimulates the digestive system, it relieves flatulence and a bloated stomach, it reduces the concentration of stomach acid and relieves inflammation.

Make ginger and lemon tea by grating fresh root of ginger or you can use the powder; add this to a cup of water and let it boil. You bring it down from the fire, sieve it and let it cool.

You then add the juice of one lemon to the drink; you can also add honey and your ginger tea is ready. Take these three times daily.

SEE ALSO: Top Ten Health Benefits of Lemons and Medical Uses

  1. Oatmeal

This food is rich I fiber; this promotes a healthy digestion, it absorbs excess stomach acid, relieves indigestion and gas or bloating.

Consume a bowl of cooked oatmeal daily. This will help relieve indigestion in a matter of days.

  1. Chamomile Tea

This is a popular remedy for indigestion; it relieves inflammation, heartburn, and stomach spasms and cramps. It reduces the production of stomach acid; it relaxes the muscles of the gastrointestinal system and facilitates proper digestion.

Boil a cup of water and add a teaspoon of chamomile; leave it for 5 or 10 minutes, strain it and then take it. You can add honey to enhance the taste and offer other benefits. Take these three times daily.

  1. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice is an effective home remedy for indigestion; it is rich in nutrients which aid healthy digestion, prevents digestive disorders, detoxifies the body and boosts the immune system.

Take a quarter cup of aloe vera juice daily before each meal.

SEE ALSO: Top Ten Effective Natural Cures for Typhoid Fever

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

This liquid can effectively reduce the acidity of stomach acid; it acts as a buffer because it contains a weaker acid called acetic acid. It improves the functions of the stomach and helps in settling an upset stomach.

Add a teaspoon of ACV in a glass of water and drink; do these twice or three times every day to you recover.

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