Why do I get indigestion after eating certain foods, and what should I do next?

The symptoms you describe sound like food intolerance. This is a condition due to the inability to digest and absorb certain food substances. The undigested food substances are metabolized by gut bacteria to produce gases, which in turn cause the symptoms of 'indigestion'.

Studies show that dietary modification is the most effective way to improve symptoms. Medication is rarely helpful. The problem is that many patients are not able to identify what food substances they are intolerant to on their own. Further, as t people can become intolerant to foods that they could previously digest easily.

Hydrogen/ methane breath testing can help to test for lactose and fructose intolerance, which are two of the more common types of food intolerance. The other types may be identified through a low FODMAP diet. This often needs to be done under the guidance of a specialist dietitian. These services should be available in any tertiary hospital or digestive group practice.

Less commonly, the symptoms can be due to an underlying medical problem. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you may want to consider seeing a doctor to ascertain this.

I hope this is helpful.

Try to take smaller portions each time you eat for a period of time and see if there is any improvement. Fluids and exercise may help. Consider losing some weight if you are on the larger side.

The best way to achieve this is to combine regular exercises with restricting your daily Calorie intake. And do ensure you open your bowel regularly since constipation may worsen your symptoms.

Lastly, watch for alarm features such as vomiting, unexplained weight loss, passing black stools or having your urine colour deepening to almost tea colour. You will need professional help for the above. Best regards.

- Dr Quan