Symptoms:

• Pains in the upper abdomen
• Feeling of fullness, nausea, vomiting
• Belching, flatulence, appetite loss

Potential causes:

• Rich, fatty foods or food that has gone off
• Excessively hot or cold food or drinks
• Excessive alcohol consumption, nicotine
• Stress and hectic atmosphere
• Infection

What you can do yourself:

When your mother told you to chew your food well before swallowing it, she had medical science on her side. Well-chewed food takes the strain off the stomach and bowels, thereby helping to prevent digestion problems. A meal eaten at leisure in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere not only tastes better, but also contributes to good digestion. By contrast, stimulants such as coffee, black tea, mate tea and cigarettes should be consumed in moderation. Taking a walk after a heavy meal also aids digestion.

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