Natural Treatments for Acid Indigestion

We live in high stress times. Many people work too hard, have too much stress and are paying for it with poor digestion. More and more people take antacids every day, but they can prevent your body from assimilating other important nutrients as well. Vitamin B-12 in particular is often deficient in people who take antacids too often.

What is Acid Indigestion?

Acid indigestion is caused by too much stomach acid. If untreated, it can aggravate the duodenum �€" which connects the stomach to the intestines �€" or damage the stomach lining, causing ulcers. If the stomach acid effects the esophagus, it can cause heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as well.

Symptoms of Indigestion include:

Heartburn- usually a hot, burning, dull ache or pain behind the breastbone

Sour Taste in the mouth - caused by acid coming up from the stomach

Excessive Belching

Increased amounts of saliva

Difficult or painful swallowing

Sore throat or laryngitis

Persistent cough or difficulty breathingThe Importance of Diet

Diet and Lifestyle Changes are the best defense in the treatment of acid indigestion. Caffeine and alcohol both stimulate the production of stomach acid and so should be avoided to the greatest extent possible.

There are some other dietary influences that may trigger an attack. These include:

Eating foods with too much fat in them.

Eating foods with too much spice in them.

Smoking

Overeating

Eating too late in the evening, or eating just before sleeping.You may want to log your symptoms to see what triggers an attack for you, as a way to learn what to avoid.

There are also some positive dietary steps you can take. For example, taking both an enzyme and probiotic supplement. Cooking food destroys its natural enzymes. if you only eat cooked food, then your body has to take enzymes from somewhere else - the liver and pancreas, this then weakens their function, and can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, gas and bloating. If you are unable to tolerate raw vegetables, taking a plant enzyme supplement may be very beneficial.