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What Are the Best Remedies for Indigestion?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

Although indigestion can be the result of a number of causes, there are a few remedies for indigestion that can help in many cases. It is important to remember that severe, acute, or persistent indigestion all warrant professional medical attention. Some serious causes for indigestion include ulcers, stress, and diseases that either target or impact the digestive system. Because indigestion can be a symptom of serious conditions, it is important to report indigestion to a doctor if it occurs with great frequency. For mild cases, however, there are a number of remedies that can be done right at home, including staying hydrated, consuming some herbs or carbonated drinks, and avoiding stress.

There are a number of home remedies for indigestion that people have been using for years. Some people find that drinking a glass of water with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar works well to reduce indigestion. Some people prefer to drink hot water with lemon for indigestion. Teas that work as good treatments for indigestion include ginger tea and mint tea.

Baking soda and water can soothe indigestion.
Baking soda and water can soothe indigestion.

Ginger is also used to relieve indigestion when it is consumed in the form of ginger ale. In fact, ginger ale and other fizzy drinks such as club soda are often used for this, too. Sometimes people mix baking soda into a glass of water to make their own fizzy tonic instead of drinking bottled carbonated beverages.

There are a few eating and drinking practices that can function as preventative remedies for indigestion. Eating quickly or eating without chewing properly are both causes of indigestion, as is eating large quantities at one time. As such, people can help prevent indigestion by eating small meals, eating slowly, and being sure to chew each bite of food properly. Smoking and consuming excess alcohol can also cause indigestion, so those trying to avoid indigestion should quit smoking and consume alcohol in limited amounts.

Apple cider vinegar has been known to work wonders in easing indigestion.
Apple cider vinegar has been known to work wonders in easing indigestion.

Some basic remedies also involve reducing stress — which can trigger indigestion &mdash, getting enough sleep every night and exercising for 30-minute intervals a few times a week. Many people feel that simply taking walks aids in proper digestion. As walking can also reduce stress, getting in a few walks every week is a good way to help stave off indigestion. There are some medications and over-the-counter capsules that relieve indigestion, but people should consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking one of these remedies. Individuals experiencing regular, but not serious, indigestion can also rely on Supergreens to both prevent and improve indigestion. Supergreens powders contain digestive enzymes that promote healthy digestive function.

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

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Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

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Discussion Comments

Ocelot60

I think that oil of licorice is a very beneficial remedy for acid indigestion. You can find it in oil or pill form at most natural food stores.

Raynbow

There are many over-the-counter medications that relieve gas, reduce stomach acid, and calm indigestion. Trying different remedies for indigestion one at a time is a good way to find the one that works best for you, because not all people respond to all types of stomach medications.

For help in choosing the best over-the-counter indigestion medication, you can get quick advice from a pharmacist. As the article points out though, you should always seek a doctor's opinion if your symptoms are severe or persist.

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    • Baking soda and water can soothe indigestion.
      Baking soda and water can soothe indigestion.
    • Apple cider vinegar has been known to work wonders in easing indigestion.
      By: AgathaLemon
      Apple cider vinegar has been known to work wonders in easing indigestion.
    • Stress may cause indigestion problems.
      By: snaptitude
      Stress may cause indigestion problems.
    • Onions cause indigestion.
      By: Natika
      Onions cause indigestion.
    • Taking an antacid may help alleviate indigestion.
      By: Jimerji
      Taking an antacid may help alleviate indigestion.
    • Ginger tea or raw ginger can be used to ease indigestion.
      By: praisaeng
      Ginger tea or raw ginger can be used to ease indigestion.
    • Stress and indigestion can be controlled by modifying one's diet.
      By: michaeljung
      Stress and indigestion can be controlled by modifying one's diet.