Home Remedies for Indigestion in the Elderly

Indigestion is a frequent and common occurrence among the elderly. Burping, gas, and bloating can be extremely discomforting and is usually a sign of something that you ate that does not agree with you. Most often, there are several remedies for indigestion in our homes. If you do not have any remedies in your kitchen to treat indigestion, a visit to the grocery store may be necessary as the ingredients can be purchased there. Most home remedies for indigestion are safe, effective, and affordable. However, due to your advanced age, we suggest that you consider medical advice if symptoms of indigestion progress.

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda is used for various ailments. This is one of the most commonly used remedies that can be applied quite easily. Baking soda is best known, however, for treating acid indigestion. If you suffer from acid indigestion, try taking 1 teaspoon of baking soda and diluting it in 8 oz of water, and drinking it. The baking soda acts by neutralizing stomach acids and relieving bloating and indigestion.

Herbal Tea

Drinking herbal tea after a heavy meal controls the onset of indigestion to a great level. The tea bag should be dipped in a hot cup of water and covered for approximately five minutes. Drink the tea while it is warm. You can try any type of herbal tea for this remedy including chamomile, mint, raspberry, and ginger root or green tea.

Ginger

This is a great remedy for a number of intestinal issues. Ginger relieves nausea, bloating, and acid indigestion. Ginger can also help with motion sickness. If you feel as if you have overeaten, and indigestion is imminent, you can consider chewing on a fresh, slightly salted piece of ginger. Ginger can also be taken as a tea.

Fennel

Nausea and flatulence that occurs with indigestion can be controlled by chewing a spoonful of fennel seeds. Fennel can also be ingested as tea where you can add two teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds to a cup of hot water. If you have eaten too much spicy or fatty food, you should definitely try fennel seeds to relieve indigestion.

Pineapple

This fruit aids in digestion and relieves indigestion. Pineapple contains bromelain aiding in digestion. Consuming a piece of pineapple after a meal or drinking pineapple juice can relieve symptoms of indigestion.

Advice for the Elderly

Indigestion is often a sign of an underlying condition. For example, regular indigestion can mean you have gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. You could also be having ulcers, gallbladder disease, IBS, stomach infections, etc. So, although the above remedies may be helpful with the occasional bout of indigestion, they may not provide you permanent relief. If indigestion persists or becomes worse and lasts for more than two to three weeks, you should consult a doctor. Failure to consult a doctor may result in serious problems.

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