Mexicans suffer from unique ailments such as fallen fontanelle, evil eye, and indigestion. The latter condition is common among both young and old and is often treated by popping the indigestion, but... What are the myths and realities of this ailment?

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a feeling of fullness, heaviness, and discomfort in the stomach after a large or difficult-to-digest meal. Although this term is popular in Mexico and Latin America, it is recognized in medicine as a mild digestive disorder. The MSD Manual describes it as a feeling of fullness, even after eating small portions, accompanied by nausea, gas, or discomfort.

You can also read: Is it normal to have gas after eating?

Myths about indigestion

If you have also been a victim of the famous indigestion, then don't miss this information about its myths and realities so it doesn't happen again.

• Only children get indigestion: Although it's often said that only children suffer from indigestion, the reality is that it can affect everyone.
• It is cured by vomiting: Vomiting intentionally not only does not cure indigestion but can damage the esophagus and worsen indigestion symptoms.
• Soda helps with indigestion: Many believe that lemon soda relieves stomach discomfort. However, carbonated drinks contain sugars and gas that can worsen indigestion, increasing inflammation.

Truths about indigestion

• Popping the indigestion: Popping the indigestion or “pulling the skin” is a technique of traditional medicine that is widely used, and although it may seem unbelievable, there is some scientific evidence that it works. The Encyclopedic Dictionary of Mexican Traditional Medicine mentions that “several authors have suggested that with manual therapy, nervous stimulation is possibly achieved, which increases digestive peristalsis, with the consequent elimination of indigestible elements.”
• Stress influences: According to experts, nervousness or anxiety slows down digestion. Furthermore, indigestion is frequent in stressed people, with up to 37% of cases associated with anxiety.
• Avoid fats and spicy foods: Foods and dishes that contain fats and chili, as well as carbonated or alcoholic beverages, delay gastric emptying and increase acidity, causing inflammation, nausea, or reflux.
• Make yourself a tea: Chamomile, mint, or ginger teas have anti-inflammatory effects and can relieve indigestion.

Symptoms of indigestion

• Inflammation
• Stomach pain
• Gas
• Nausea
• Fatigue

See more: 5 home remedies for heartburn

Tips to prevent and treat indigestion

To avoid indigestion:

• Eat slowly and chew well.
• Avoid overly large meals.
• Reduce the intake of fat, sugar, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.
• Do not drink liquids during the meal.
• Set a schedule for eating.

In case of indigestion:

• Lie down in a semi-reclining position.
• Apply heat to the abdomen.
• Drink chamomile, mint, or ginger teas.
• Perform slow abdominal massages.
• Avoid self-medication.

As you can see, indigestion does exist and is quite a bothersome condition, so don't hesitate to take care of your diet and consult an expert who can guide you to improve your health and adopt the best treatment.

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