Most people in New York City experience indigestion now and then. If an upset stomach and a little gassy bother you, you should consider seeing your Manhattan gastroenterologist. If the condition recurs frequently or leads to more severe symptoms, your indigestion may result from poor food or lifestyle choices.
Improve Your Heartburn, Gas & Indigestion
You can take simple steps to mitigate or even prevent your symptoms in the future. Here are four things you can do today to lessen your heartburn, gas, and indigestion:
1. Increase fiber.
The best way to keep your stomach and intestines in good working order is to include more fiber in your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, your body needs fiber — 25 grams a day for women and 38 grams a day for men. Fiber is easily digestible, so it helps to clean your system by pushing everything along. Whole-grain bread, raspberries, split peas, lentils, and beans are all high in fiber. Drink plenty of water during and after your high-fiber meal to aid digestion.
2. Decrease certain foods.
Some foods naturally produce gas. If you are continually bothered by bloating, gas, and indigestion, eliminate or reduce these foods from your diet:
- Baked beans;
- Lettuce;
- Broccoli and Brussels sprouts;
- High-fat and spicy foods;
- Cabbage and cauliflower;
- Onions and garlic;
- Tomatoes or tomato-based products;
- Certain fruits, such as citrus, pears, peaches, and apples;
- Chocolate, chewing gum, peppermint, and hard candy;
- Carbonated drinks.
3. Change your habits.
Reduce the portion size of your meals. Don’t eat within a few hours of going to bed. Avoid fatty foods, such as fast food. Your body can’t tolerate highly processed foods, which can lead to indigestion, gas, and bloating. Don’t wear tight-fitting; they can put undue pressure on your stomach and intestines. Also, lying down after a meal can worsen your indigestion.
4. Make healthier choices.
If you smoke, you should consider stopping. Nicotine taxes your whole body, not just your lungs. Decrease the amount of alcohol and caffeine you drink. If you’re overweight, shed some pounds. Finally, seek to reduce your daily stress. If you can’t quit your stressful job or remove yourself from a stressful relationship, find time and activities that help you cope– such as meditation or gentle exercise.
Remember: If your heartburn symptoms persist despite having taken these steps, see your doctor. If you also have more severe symptoms — such as a change in your bowel patterns or acid regurgitation — book an appointment with a gastroenterologist in New York City. It could be a sign of a more severe illness.
Contact us for more information on how our NYC Gastroenterologists can help treat heartburn, gas & indigestion.
