4 Common Causes of Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia or upset stomach, is a common stomach problem that tends to hit us every then and now. It is typically characterized by abdominal discomfort and a burning sensation, particularly in the upper abdomen.

Many-a-times, indigestion can also be followed by other digestive discomforts like heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. A feeling of fullness in between meals, excessive belching, burping, stomach bloating, a gnawing sensation in the stomach, etc. are some of the most common symptoms associated with indigestion.   

What causes indigestion?

Indigestion is typically associated with our adverse lifestyle and food habits. It can also arise as a side-effect of certain medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it is not particularly a disease, rather a symptom of other digestive problems.

Some common causes of indigestion include:

1. Poor eating habits

Poor eating habits and food behaviour are the primary causes of indigestion. In today’s fast paced world, we often face trouble in maintaining a healthy eating routine and fail in deciding on healthy foods. This can eventually affect our digestive health and make us susceptible to abdominal discomfort. Some food behaviour and eating habits that may cause indigestion include:

• Overeating or eating meals too fast.
• Drinking excessive amount of coffee and other caffeinated beverages.
• Drinking carbonated and artificially sweetened drinks like sodas and cold drinks.
• Eating fatty, spicy and gassy foods.
• Eating excessive amount of foods like tomatoes and citrus foods as they contain a lot of acids.    
• Moreover, dairy products like milk, cheese, paneer, etc. can also cause indigestion in lactose intolerant people.

2. Smoking

Smoking is injurious to healthy in every possible way. Many people assert that smoking makes them feel full. This feeling is primarily induced by the harmful effects of the chemicals used in cigarettes. Moreover, health experts claim that smoking also kills major digestive enzymes that may leave the food undigested in the stomach for prolonged periods of time.

3. Alcohol consumption

Drinking excessive amount of alcohol adversely affects our health in many ways. It makes us dehydrated, pulls out water from our body, and shrinks the cells to eventually cause indigestion.

4. Stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety make our body undergo notable hormonal changes. They increase the levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and interfere with the processing of food. This can lead to indigestion.

Fortunately, mild symptoms of indigestion can be relieved easily with natural antacids like Gas-O-Fast Jeera. It is loaded with the goodness and wellness of Ayurveda to provide instant relief from acidity and indigestion. However, in extreme cases, indigestion may also cause some severe symptoms like recurring vomiting, black stools, unexplained weight loss, and trouble while swallowing food. In such cases, people are suggested to seek medical attention immediately.