Dietary and Lifestyle Suggestions - Indigestion

When there is excess acid in the stomach, certain foods may aggravate the condition, such as commercially processed foods, sugars, refined carbohydrates, fried foods, stimulants, spicy foods, alcohol, grapefruit juice, milk and dairy products, carbonated beverages, and orange juice.

Emphasize a diet rich in fiber, including whole grains, fruits and vegetables. The digestive system cannot function without sufficient fiber. Fiber assists with the maintenance of regularity. Wheat grass, chlorella and spirulina are also great complements to a sensible diet.

A balanced diet should consist of 20-30% whole grains, 20-30% protein (smaller amount of beans), 30-40% fresh vegetables, and 5-10% dairy, eggs, and fruits; 2% fats and oils.

Choose healthy oils, such as extra virgin olive oil, flax seed oil, and raw virgin coconut oil. Unsaturated fats and oils help to burn fat and absorb certain vitamins.

Eat organic foods, such as raw nuts and seeds, brown rice or white rice (most balanced grain), walnuts, apples, raw or lightly cooked vegetables, and drink plenty of water.

Other Dietary Recommendations

Protein

Protein repairs damaged cells; stimulates and maintains metabolism. Protein must be consumed in moderation. Insufficient protein can cause blood-sugar imbalances and metabolic disturbances, and other serious health problems. Too much protein can build up toxins in the body which can eventually lead to cancer and other disturbances. Other significant sources of protein include the following: legumes, nori seaweed, and beans (soya bean, aduki bean, black bean, green mung bean. The soya bean has the highest protein content. Miso soup is also very nutritional and contains friendly bacteria for intestinal health and balance.

Fats and Oils

Unsaturated fats and oils are the healthiest for the body, and are mostly found in grains, nuts and seeds. Unsaturated oils include safflower oil, sunflower oil, olive oil, etc...Unsaturated fats and oils serve to protect the heart, regulate cell activity, burns stored fat, and facilitates the overall digestive process. Saturated fats, on the other hand, are known as the "bad fats" and should be avoided. In addition, saturated fats are found primarily in meat and dairy products. Examples of saturated fats and oils include coconut oil, palm oil, butter, pork, beef, fried foods, etc...

Lifestyle recommendations

Chew food well, eat slowly, eat small meals, stop smoking, and get plenty of rest. All of these suggestions help the digestive system run more efficiently.

Reduce stress

Too much stress can cause damaging chemical changes in the body; therefore, food will not be properly digested and the body will absorb fewer nutrients.