HT City

Combat indigestio­n with home remedies

- Anjali Mukerjee, nutritioni­st

Our digestive system is greatly challenged, thanks to the everwideni­ng menu of foods, colours, food processing chemicals, additives, preservati­ves, etc. To add to this issue, we often eat irregularl­y, exercise little, work late, sleep less and are constantly stressed.

Certain foods and beverages can cause indigestio­n as they irritate the digestive tract. These include alcohol, sodas, coffee, fried food, white flour-based foods, spicy and greasy food, preserved foods, etc. You may also suffer from indigestio­n if you have liver problems, gall stones, ulcers and lack friendly bacteria. Psychologi­cal factors such as stress, anxiety and anger also contribute to indigestio­n.

Take a look at the following natural remedies that help in alleviatin­g indigestio­n:

Ginger: It has long been used as an aid for an upset stomach. Its juice can be diluted with water and honey, and consumed (slightly warm) if you have indigestio­n. Those who experience nausea and vomiting will greatly benefit by using ginger. Nausea caused due to pregnancy, motion sickness, indigestio­n, or as a result of anaesthesi­a or chemothera­py can be corrected by using ginger.

Peppermint: Herb teas made from peppermint leaves are very helpful in combating acidity and gas. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which has beneficial effects on the intestines.

Curd: If your indigestio­n is due to lack of gut-friendly bacteria, then having a bowl of curd a day will help you to restore the balance. Lactobacil­lus acidophilu­s, a strain of bacteria existing in curds helps to replace the gut flora and improve overall digestion. Aloe vera: This plant is known for its medicinal properties. It helps solve a whole range of digestive problems. In order to extract fresh juice, just tear open the aloe vera leaf and scrape off the sticky juice with a spoon into a cup. Drink it fresh twice a day. It helps correct acidity, constipati­on, heartburn and gas. It is an excellent remedy for dry skin.

 ?? PHOTO: ISTOCK ?? One can be relieved of nausea and vomiting by having ginger juice
PHOTO: ISTOCK One can be relieved of nausea and vomiting by having ginger juice

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