Your favorite foods can be delicious, but eating them too quickly or in large amounts might lead to occasional indigestion.
Indigestion symptoms can include feeling uncomfortably full after eating, or experiencing chest pain or a burning sensation in your upper stomach. Indigestion isn’t a disease itself, but rather a sign of other stomach issues like ulcers, gastritis, or acid reflux.
Source: Reflux symptoms can also include a weird feeling in your throat, chest pain, and more.
The good news is, that getting quick relief from indigestion is usually straightforward unless it's caused by an ongoing health issue. Wondering how to get rid of indigestion fast? Keep reading for some simple home remedies.
Natural Remedies for Acid Indigestion Relief That Work
Many people might not realize they have acid indigestion. Some signs, like hoarseness, throat pressure, stuffy nose, sour taste in the mouth, and a long-lasting cough, could easily be missed.
You can find medicines and supplements in stores that help treat indigestion quickly. If you're dealing with stomach discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, or heartburn, give one of these natural treatments at home a try for soothing relief.
Here are the best foods and drinks for getting rid of acid indigestion relief fast:
1. Peppermint or Chamomile
Studies have shown that peppermint is a helpful natural remedy for relieving stomach pain linked to indigestion. You can enjoy peppermint tea, which provides warmth to soothe your stomach or use peppermint essential oil for relief.
Chamomile is another option for easing indigestion because it naturally reduces inflammation and muscle spasms, which can alleviate stomach discomfort. However, if you take blood thinners, it's essential to consult your doctor before using chamomile to treat indigestion.
2. Ginger
Ginger has been used medicinally for centuries, including for the relief of indigestion. This herb contains compounds that researchers have discovered can promote stomach contractions. Consuming ginger can help speed up the movement of indigestion-causing foods through your digestive system, providing soothing relief.
Additionally, the compounds found in ginger can help ease accompanying symptoms like nausea and diarrhea, and even reduce vomiting. For quick relief, you can enjoy ginger tea, or if you're able to eat, you can add ginger to bland foods like white rice. It's important to eat slowly to prevent worsening your symptoms.
3. Licorice Root
Licorice can offer fast relief for indigestion due to its compounds that reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Although scientists are still studying how exactly licorice helps soothe stomach upset, research indicates that it aids in food movement through the digestive system.
A 2014 study demonstrated that licorice can:
- Alleviate stomach ulcers
- Soothe the stomach lining through increased mucus production
- Enhance blood supply to aid in the complete recovery of the stomach
Source: Licorice roof can offer fast relief for indigestion
To alleviate indigestion, you can chew on licorice root or brew it into tea with hot water. However, it's important not to overdo it. Consuming excessive amounts of licorice can lead to electrolyte imbalances, so it's best to stick to 2.5 grams or less daily.
4. Aloe Vera
A Trusted Source indicates that aloe vera can:
- Enhance digestion and improve appetite
- Support a healthy gut microbiome
- Lower the occurrence of stomach ulcers
Studies have shown that aloe vera is a beneficial natural remedy for various symptoms of indigestion, including:
- Heartburn
- Flatulence
- Acid regurgitation
- Food regurgitation
- Belching
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Aloe vera, ginger, and licorice root are all ingredients in Cumargold
5. Turmeric
Turmeric, containing curcumin, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest it may help ease symptoms of indigestion like bloating and stomach discomfort. Adding turmeric to meals or taking it as a supplement could offer relief.
However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
For people who get indigestion due to insufficient stomach acid production, apple cider vinegar can be a helpful remedy. Taking one to two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar mixed in water can provide fast relief from indigestion.
Apple cider vinegar is naturally acidic, which can stimulate the body's production and secretion of stomach acid. With increased acidity in the stomach, food digestion is enhanced, helping to alleviate discomfort, bloating, and heartburn associated with indigestion.
7. Fennel
Fennel seed is a well-known remedy for swiftly improving indigestion. This herb naturally alleviates stomach spasms and has been found to enhance delayed gastric emptying, a common issue in individuals with dyspepsia.
Source: Chewing fennel seeds can effectively indigestion.
Chewing fennel seeds or sipping fennel tea can effectively soothe stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea linked with indigestion.
8. Baking Soda
Baking soda is known for its ability to improve indigestion. Its high pH level helps neutralize stomach acid, easing symptoms like bloating, gas, and upper gastrointestinal discomfort. To use this remedy, mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in about four ounces of water and drink it.
However, it's essential to use baking soda cautiously. Consuming too much can lead to uncomfortable side effects such as stomach cramps, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. It's crucial to wait at least two hours between doses if you decide to use this treatment.
Overconsumption of baking soda can also have adverse health effects, especially in older adults. Experts recommend that adults under 60 should not exceed seven and a half teaspoons of baking soda in 24 hours, while those over 60 should limit intake to three and a half teaspoons in the same timeframe.
9. Lemon Water
Drinking lemon water can help neutralize stomach acid and improve digestion due to its alkaline effect. Simply mix a tablespoon of lemon juice in hot or warm water and drink it a few minutes before eating.
In addition to easing indigestion, lemon water is a great source of vitamin C. However, it's important to note that excessive consumption of lemon water can lead to tooth enamel erosion and increased urination. To protect your teeth, rinse your mouth with water after drinking lemon water.
How to Relieve Acid Indigestion at Night
Indigestion at night can be triggered by eating too quickly or consuming greasy, fatty, or spicy foods, as well as excessive alcohol intake. Symptoms like heartburn, upper abdominal pain, or nausea may arise.
Here are some tips to alleviate acid indigestion at night:
- Elevate Your Upper Body: Avoid lying flat, as this can worsen symptoms. Use pillows to elevate your upper chest, neck, and head while sleeping to prevent stomach acid from flowing backward into your throat, causing heartburn.
- Avoid Late-Night Meals: Refrain from eating within two hours of bedtime to allow your body time to digest food properly before lying down.
- Avoid Late-Night Exercise: Steer clear of vigorous exercise before bedtime, as it may exacerbate indigestion symptoms.
- Skip the Nightcap: Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages before bedtime, as alcohol can contribute to stomach inflammation and worsen indigestion.
- No Smoking Before Bed: Smoking can irritate the stomach lining and exacerbate indigestion symptoms. Avoid smoking before bedtime.
Additional Ways to Relieve Indigestion at Night:
- Take a Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relax muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate bloating, providing relief from indigestion symptoms.
- Apply a Warm Compress: If you prefer not to take a bath, applying a warm compress or heating pad to your abdominal area can help soothe cramping and pain associated with indigestion.
By incorporating these strategies into your nighttime routine, you can effectively manage and alleviate acid indigestion symptoms, promoting better sleep and overall well-being.
In Conclusion
You don’t have to endure frequent acid indigestion. While stomach discomfort can be disruptive, there are ways to manage it. Try these home remedies, but make sure to consult a doctor if you experience concerning symptoms.
It's important to note that the FDA doesn't regulate herbs and remedies for quality, so research your brand choices carefully.
Seeking medical attention promptly, getting a proper diagnosis, and starting treatment can lead to a quicker recovery and improved quality of life.
