FEATURE: Better Digestion

FEATURE: Better Digestion

Feeling bloated? Belching like a frat boy? Gas getting to you even when you’re not at the pump? What causes indigestion, and what can you do to prevent it naturally?

What causes indigestion?
Buffalo wings, hot sauce, fudge brownies. Indigestion is caused by a variety of factors. Common causes are stress, eating too late, eating too much, eating foods that are very rich, foods your body isn’t used to, and undiagnosed food allergies.

How to treat indigestion?

Move after you eat.
Our lives have become more and more sedentary. Break out of your TV rut and go for a walk after dinner. Walking eases digestion and is good for cardiovascular health and emotional well being.

Eat slowly.
Pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy the flavors. Meals can be a sensual experience. Enjoy the tastes and eat slowly. Belching can occur when we gulp down lots of air because we eat too fast. We belch to relieve abdominal pain and cramping. Gas is often a symptom of a problem - the problem is often eating too fast. Slow down and don’t drink carbonated water if your burping the alphabet skills are increasing everyday.

Change your meal.
Sometimes indigestion is caused by food allergies and lactose intolerance we don't realize we have. Talk to your doctor if you think a food allergy might be causing your upset. Otherwise, experiment by eliminating the possible culprit from your meals for a week, and see if you feel better. Sometimes flatulence is a result of lactose intolerance, caused by dairy sensitivity. And sometimes, it’s a result of all those healthy vegetables you’ve been eating. Beans, broccoli and cabbage can make you especially susceptible to flatulence. Mix up these healthy vegetables with leafy greens, fish and fruits.

All of these simple techniques are used by Blue Zones populations. Eating habits are integral to increasing your longevity and something as simple as using smaller plates to downsize your portions can be very effective.

Which foods cause gas? Find out here.