Indigestion / Upper Belly Fullness – Functional Dyspepsia
Functional Dyspepsia is a chronic digestive condition marked by upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, early fullness during meals, and sometimes mild nausea. Unlike ulcers or reflux disease, there’s no visible structural damage — the problem lies in the stomach’s motility and sensory nerves. It often appears after meals and can significantly reduce appetite or enjoyment of eating.
Common Triggers
- Eating large or high-fat meals
- Eating too quickly or under stress
- Excess coffee, alcohol, or spicy foods
- Carbonated drinks
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Impaired stomach emptying (gastroparesis-like symptoms)
- Chronic anxiety or nervous system overactivation
Relief & Management Goals
- Ease upper abdominal tightness and fullness
- Improve gastric emptying and reduce post-meal stagnation
- Calm hypersensitive stomach nerves
- Prevent overeating by encouraging mindful eating habits
Quick Guide
- Breath: Before and after meals, use gentle belly breathing to relax the stomach muscles.
- Pain scale: Aim to keep discomfort ≤3/10 within 30 minutes of eating.
- Success signs: Less pressure in the upper abdomen, longer comfort window after meals, reduced early satiety.
Step-by-Step Functional Dyspepsia Relief Program
Step 1 — Pre-Meal Stomach Relaxation (2 minutes)
Goal: Reduce nerve tension and allow stomach to expand comfortably during eating
- Sit upright in a quiet space before your meal.
- Place one hand on your upper abdomen, just below the breastbone.
- Inhale gently through the nose, feeling the hand rise slightly without forcing.
- Exhale slowly through pursed lips, imagining the stomach wall softening.
- Repeat for 6–8 breaths before starting your meal.
Success: A calmer, less tight upper stomach when you begin eating.
Step 2 — Mindful Eating Pace (Daily)
Goal: Prevent overfilling and allow the stomach time to signal fullness
- Take smaller portions initially; you can always add more later.
- Chew each bite 15–20 times before swallowing.
- Pause for 30–60 seconds between bites — put down utensils if needed.
- Stop eating at the first sign of gentle fullness, not complete satiety.
Success: No tightness or heavy pressure within 20–30 minutes after finishing your meal.
Step 3 — Post-Meal Upright Position (30 minutes)
Goal: Support natural gastric emptying and avoid pressure on the stomach
- After eating, remain seated upright or take a gentle stroll.
- Avoid lying down or slouching forward, as this compresses the stomach.
- Keep tight waistbands or belts loosened during this period.
Success: Less post-meal discomfort and a lighter feeling in the upper abdomen.
Step 4 — Upper Abdominal Massage (2–3 minutes)
Goal: Stimulate stomach motility and relieve mild spasm
- Stand or sit comfortably with one hand flat over the upper belly.
- Using gentle circular motions, massage clockwise over the stomach area.
- Keep the pressure light, focusing on warmth and relaxation rather than deep pressure.
- Breathe slowly throughout, syncing each circle with your breath.
Success: Reduced tightness and easier digestion within 15–30 minutes.
Step 5 — Evening Nervous System Reset (10–15 minutes)
Goal: Lower daily stress that can amplify functional dyspepsia symptoms
- Find a quiet spot and lie on your back with knees bent.
- Rest hands gently on the lower ribs.
- Inhale slowly, feeling ribs widen; exhale fully, letting the body soften.
- Optionally, listen to calming music or a guided relaxation track.
Success: A calmer digestive system at bedtime and less morning bloating.
Practical Tips
- Split large meals into 4–5 smaller meals if symptoms flare with big portions.
- Limit coffee, strong tea, and alcohol, especially on an empty stomach.
- Avoid cold drinks with meals; opt for room temperature or warm beverages.
- Manage stress using daily breathing or relaxation exercises.
- If symptoms persist, get tested for Helicobacter pylori infection.
When to Seek Medical Help
- Sudden worsening of symptoms or severe persistent pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting blood or black/tarry stools
- Persistent vomiting or difficulty swallowing