Why can't I digest the food I've eaten?

Indigestion after meals is quite common in our daily life and there are many causes. For example, poor diet, eating too much greasy food and overeating may all cause indigestion. Of course, it is also related to decreased gastric function and digestion. Some elderly people are prone to this situation. In addition, they are also easily affected by emotions. Of course, there are also some reasons related to disease, mainly some digestive tract diseases.

Why can't I digest the food I've eaten?

The digestive function of the elderly is reduced and they are easily affected by emotions. Sometimes, it can be triggered by eating slightly rough or cold food, or eating too much or too greasy food. It is worth emphasizing that mild indigestion that is generally treated by self-treatment at home is mostly caused by bad mood, excessive work pressure, catching a cold in cold weather, or eating too much indigestible food. It only has mild upper abdominal discomfort, fullness, heartburn and other symptoms. Dyspepsia may be caused by idiopathic, congenital, inflammatory, infectious, or pancreatic diseases, or may be secondary to a variety of systemic diseases. For example, celiac disease is a gluten-sensitive enteropathy and a primary intestinal malabsorption syndrome. Because the small intestinal mucosa lacks a certain peptidase, it cannot completely break down the gluten metabolite α-gluten, which has a strong damaging effect on the small intestinal mucosa. The gluten consumed stimulates the production of IgA antibodies locally in the intestinal mucosa, and can form antigen-antibody complexes with IgA, which are deposited in the intestinal mucosa. With the participation of complement, an allergic reaction occurs, causing intestinal mucosal damage. Malabsorption syndromes include tropical and non-tropical malabsorption syndromes, and celiac disease in children. Malabsorption syndrome, which is prevalent in tropical areas, is characterized by chronic steatorrhea, multiple nutrient deficiencies, stomatitis, and megaloblastic anemia, and is effectively treated with antibiotics. Children with celiac disease and non-tropical malabsorption syndrome mainly suffer from malabsorption syndrome due to gluten intolerance.

What should adults do if they have indigestion?

1. Exercise regularly and avoid stress. Exercise helps improve digestion. Physical activity can help reduce many digestive problems. Studies have found a strong correlation between obesity, lack of exercise, stomach pain, diarrhea and irritable bowel movements. In addition, when the pressure is too great, the blood supply to the abdomen is reduced, affecting the normal secretion of digestive enzymes, slowing down the digestion process, and leading to heartburn, bloating and constipation.

2. Chew slowly. Chewing is essential for digestion. The chewing action not only breaks down food for easier digestion, but also helps send signals to the salivary glands, stomach, and small intestine to release digestive enzymes. At the same time, avoid overeating, because overeating will lead to insufficient digestive enzymes and excessive secretion of gastric acid, causing heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion. 3. Eat more dietary fiber every day. A high-fiber diet is an important part of a healthy diet. While it is beneficial for digestion, it also helps prevent diseases such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, hemorrhoids, and colon cancer. You should eat more fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grain cereals, nuts, etc. If you have indigestion, it is best to temporarily avoid gas-causing foods such as broccoli, baked beans, cabbage, cauliflower, and carbonated drinks. In addition, high-starch foods such as wheat, oats and potatoes can also cause bloating. While maintaining a high-fiber diet, you should also remember to drink plenty of water. 4. Do not take antacids in excess. When acid reflux occurs, many people first consider taking antacids. However, excessive use of antacids can reduce stomach function and make bacterial infections more likely, leading to digestive problems.

<<: How to heat milk storage bags

>>: Why is my appetite decreasing?