There’s generally no harm in eating extra amounts of food, but it pays to know that there’s a limit our body allows. Adding body fat is the least of your worries since too much consumption could lead to several gastrointestinal conditions. Most of these are indigestion.
It’s mostly harmless but it could get worse. Indigestion could also be an indicator of chronic acid reflux which, if left untreated, could expose you to more serious gastrointestinal conditions. The best way you can prevent that is to watch what and how you eat. If you find yourself experiencing indigestion more often than not, then this guide is worth your attention:
What causes indigestion?
Also going by the term dyspepsia, indigestion is described as a gastric disturbance that occurs when you eat more food than your stomach can digest. However, the amount of food you eat isn’t the only factor. It may as well be a symptom of acid reflux that goes along with other symptoms like excessive burping and heartburn.
The medication you take can also cause stomach disturbance, especially if you’re taking drugs that are known to irritate your stomach. Drugs like ibuprofen can dissolve the lining protecting your digestive system from the acid it produces. Eating too much is also a notable cause because it displaces the acid in your stomach.
Other causes such as contaminated food may also cause indigestion, but food poisoning would be more likely. Food manufacturers are now using the latest technologies to ensure food safety and reminders by TDI Packsys point out the importance of using x-rays. However, indigestion is a different issue altogether and there are things you will need to do to prevent it.
Ways to Deal with Indigestion
- Opt for a low-fat diet
Nothing can irritate your stomach more than consuming meals with too much fat content, especially trans fats. You may also need to regulate eating foods with saturated fats, including most dairy products other than soy milk. As an alternative, go for foods containing healthy amounts of unsaturated fat sourced from canola oil and fish.
- Reduce your meals
If you tend to eat too much during major mealtimes, consider distributing your food consumption across five smaller meals. Not only will this help you control your caloric intake, but it prevents you from overusing your stomach.
- Mind your painkiller medication
If you’re taking painkillers like ibuprofen, check with your doctor first if it’s safe to take. You’ll be prescribed safer medication if you’re prone to indigestion.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
The main culprits in causing acid reflux are alcoholic beverages. which can restrict the esophageal sphincter. The same can be said of coffee. You don’t have to quit drinking these substances, but too much each day can weaken your digestive system and make you prone to indigestion.
- Avoid stressful situations
Stress can trigger binge eating in most people. This, in turn, causes indigestion. If you can’t avoid stress most of the time, at least learn how to cope with it. Instead of eating foods high in trans fats, replace them with healthier options that won’t irritate the stomach.
Endnote
There’s joy in eating the food we like, but a lack of control often leads to a stressed-out stomach. Before trying out new recipes, use this guide to make sure your next meal won’t be a painful one when you’re done!
