Indigestion is a complex function exerted by the digestive tract that consists of a coordinated set of mechanical and biochemical operations, through which the substances contained in the food introduced into the body, are modified for absorption and utilized by the body itself.
For various reasons, such as eating an excessive amount of food, drinking cold drinks during digestion or the presence of food allergy or intolerance, optimal digestion may not take place. This is the case of indigestion. There are several symptoms that may be associated with poor digestion such as: the presence of halitosis, acid indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain or nausea.
What kind of diseases can be associated with poor digestion?
The following diseases may be associated with poor digestion:
- Food allergy
- Calculations gallbladder
- Cholecystitis
- Colitis
- Hiatal hernia
- Cystic fibrosis
- Gastritis
- Food intolerance
- Pancreatitis
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Sepsis
- Pancreatic cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Duodenal ulcer
- Gastric ulcer
- Peptic ulcer
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for poor digestion?
Since the origin can be derived from different causes, it is important to know the underlying cause that led to indigestion. Generally, a healthy and balanced diet can help against this condition, as well as maintaining a good eating habit (eating slowly, for example, minimizes the swallowing of air in the stomach and allows good food chewing and good digestion).
If the root cause for indigestion is not a disease, natural organic remedies can promote regression of the disorder. Digestive herbal teas, tablets or candy made from natural extracts aimed at improving the functionality and gastric digestion can help. One should avoid "do it yourself" treatments. A doctor’s consult is advisable, especially if one already suffers from other diseases.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of poor digestion?
A doctor should be contacted, when the patient is diagnosed with one of the associated diseases (see list of associated diseases).
