Understanding certain digestive problems

Digestion is the process by which the body transforms food into nutrients and allows them to enter the bloodstream¹. Some issues, often minor, can arise during digestion in various organs of the digestive system, causing discomfort or even pain.

Functional dyspepsia, also known as digestive discomfort^2;3

Dyspepsia is characterized by a set of symptoms such as pain or digestive discomfort, most often occurring after meals and centered in the stomach area. A feeling of poor digestion, an uncomfortable sensation of fullness, early satiety, and stomach pain — all of these describe dyspepsia. Frequently, it’s also accompanied by bloating, belching, or hiccups. These symptoms tend to appear several times a week. It’s referred to as functional dyspepsia when no underlying cause is found and the symptoms have been present for at least ⁶ months, including ³ consecutive months. A medical consultation can help rule out other diagnoses and suggest treatment options when dietary recommendations alone aren’t effective.

“Gastralgias”: stomach pains⁴

Gastralgias, or stomach pains, generally occur after meals. They often feel like cramps or burning sensations in the stomach. If the pain becomes more intense or persists over time, further medical examinations may be considered.

“Meteorism”: abdominal bloating^3,5

Meteorism refers to an increase in abdominal volume due to a buildup of gas in the intestines. It is different from abdominal bloating, which is a subjective sensation of abdominal tension, even when there’s no actual increase in intestinal gas. A few simple tips can help prevent these digestive issues when they’re related to the ingestion of certain foods or mechanical causes.