Digestion (poor)

Table of Contents

Other names

Indigestion
Dyspepsia
Weak Digestion
Digestive Weakness

Synopsis

Poor digestion refers to impaired breakdown and absorption of food, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, belching, abdominal discomfort, nausea, or a sense of fullness after eating small amounts. It can result from enzyme deficiencies, low stomach acid, sluggish motility, stress, overeating, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders.

While occasional indigestion is common, chronic or recurring poor digestion may signal issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastritis, food intolerances, gallbladder dysfunction, or pancreatic insufficiency. Digestion relies on coordinated function of the mouth, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and intestinal tract, so disruption in any part of this system can impair the overall digestive process.

Types of Poor Digestion:

  • Functional Dyspepsia: Chronic upper abdominal discomfort with no structural cause

  • Gastroparesis: Delayed stomach emptying

  • Pancreatic Insufficiency: Lack of digestive enzymes

  • Hypochlorhydria: Low stomach acid production

  • Bile insufficiency: Poor fat digestion due to liver/gallbladder dysfunction

Common Causes:

  • Overeating or eating too quickly

  • Stress or anxiety

  • Low stomach acid or enzyme production

  • Food intolerances (gluten, lactose, etc.)

  • Infections (e.g., H. pylori)

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Alcohol or tobacco use

  • Use of antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

  • Aging (natural decline in digestive secretions)

Severity Factors:

  • Mild indigestion may resolve with lifestyle adjustments

  • Persistent digestive weakness can lead to malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, or weight loss

  • Chronic poor digestion may increase risk for inflammatory or autoimmune conditions

When to See a Doctor:

  • Frequent indigestion lasting more than two weeks

  • Unintentional weight loss

  • Blood in stool or black/tarry stools

  • Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain

  • Signs of malnutrition (fatigue, brittle nails, hair loss)

  • Heartburn that doesn't respond to diet or medication

Natural Remedies

Eat slowly and chew thoroughly: Mechanical digestion starts in the mouth

Smaller, frequent meals: Easier on the stomach

Avoid overeating, fried, and processed foods

Warm fluids (e.g., ginger or fennel tea): Soothe the digestive tract

Manage stress: Stress hormones slow digestive function

Gentle movement post-meal: Aids motility (e.g., walking)

Fermented foods: Introduce beneficial bacteria (if tolerated)

Avoid drinking large amounts of water during meals: Can dilute enzymes and stomach acid

Apple cider vinegar (diluted): May support stomach acid levels (if not contraindicated)