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It’s a familiar situation. You’re enjoying a delicious dish—perhaps a rare treat—and even though both your stomach and brain are sending signals that you’re full, you can’t resist those extra bites. And maybe you top it off with some dessert.
Whether you're preparing a grand holiday feast at home or picking up takeout from your favorite spot, there’s always the chance that you might overeat just a little bit. If that happens, indigestion might follow. Here are a few tips to soothe your stomach when you feel like you’ve eaten a bit too much.
What exactly is indigestion?
If you didn’t grow up during the days when Alka-Seltzer ads were a staple on TV, here’s the lowdown on indigestion. Also referred to as “dyspepsia” or simply an upset stomach, “indigestion” encompasses a range of digestive discomforts, such as bloating, a feeling of fullness, upper abdominal pain, and nausea.
Indigestion can arise from a number of causes beyond simply overeating. Some of these causes could be more serious health concerns, so if you frequently experience these symptoms, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional. But for now, let’s focus on how to feel better after a heavy meal.
How to manage indigestion
Many people have their go-to solutions for indigestion, so it may take a bit of trial and error to discover what works best for you. Here are a few remedies to consider:
Try standing up and walking around.
Drink as much water as you can without discomfort.
While some people find ginger ale helpful for an upset stomach, others prefer ginger tea for better relief.
Chewing gum may help alleviate heartburn.
A simple remedy for heartburn includes using a baking soda solution.
Sleeping in a certain position can also help ease acid reflux.
If nothing works, try wearing loose clothes, getting comfortable, and waiting it out.
As tempting as it may seem to reach for an antacid, keep in mind that "excess stomach acid does not cause indigestion, so using antacids will not help your indigestion," according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Got your own tried-and-true remedies for indigestion? Feel free to share them in the comments below.
