Dyspepsia, or indigestion, can cause discomfort and pain in your stomach area. To manage symptoms and improve your comfort, it’s important to know which foods and habits to avoid.

What to Avoid If You Have Dyspepsia?

Here’s a simple guide to help you.

Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate your stomach lining and make dyspepsia worse. Dishes with hot peppers, chilly, or spicy sauces can increase discomfort and cause pain. OPT for milder foods to help keep your stomach calm.

Fatty and Fried Foods: Foods that are high in fat or fried can slow down digestion and lead to more symptoms. Avoid items like french fries, fried chicken, and greasy burgers. Choose lean meats and baked or grilled foods instead.

Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages can increase stomach acid and irritate your digestive system. Stay away from citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, as well as tomatoes and tomato-based sauces. Also, limit your intake of acidic drinks such as orange juice and soda.

Caffeinated Beverages: Caffeine can stimulate your stomach acid production and worsen dyspepsia. It’s a good idea to cut back on coffee, tea, and energy drinks. Opt for caffeine-free beverages like herbal teas or water.

Carbonated Drinks: Carbonated drinks, including soda and sparkling water, can cause bloating and gas. These can make dyspepsia symptoms more uncomfortable. Stick to non-carbonated beverages to avoid these issues.

Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate your stomach and increase acid production, making dyspepsia symptoms worse. Avoid drinking alcohol or limit your intake to small amounts if you choose to drink.

Large Meals: Eating large meals can put extra pressure on your stomach and worsen dyspepsia. Instead, eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help your digestive system manage food better.

Late-Night Eating: Eating right before bed can cause indigestion and discomfort while you sleep. Try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before lying down to allow your stomach to digest properly.

By avoiding these triggers, you can help manage your dyspepsia symptoms and improve your comfort. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic