Yoga is beneficial for many aspects of your health, but you might notice indigestion after a session. Many inversion poses stimulate your digestive system and may cause disturbances, particularly if you are a beginner. You don't have to suffer through the problem, though, because simple changes to your routine help prevent it. In addition, certain yoga poses help fight indigestion. If the condition persists or worsens, contact your doctor to rule out a more serious issue.

Causes

In many cases, the cause of indigestion after yoga is eating or drinking too much before or during your session. Drinking too much water too quickly during your yoga session may also cause indigestion once you're finished, particularly if you performed inversions, twists or forward bends. A buildup of gas sometimes occurs during yoga as well and might result in indigestion once you're done.

Treatment

If indigestion hits soon after yoga, home treatment is typically appropriate. Over-the-counter antacids help neutralize acid that causes indigestion and are often enough to alleviate symptoms. Light meals and drinks for several hours after yoga prevent exacerbating your indigestion and allow your body time to recover. Crackers, toast and peppermint tea may calm indigestion and make you feel better.

Prevention

Avoiding food before yoga is an easy way to prevent indigestion afterward. "Yoga Journal" suggests forgoing a meal in the two or three hours leading up to your yoga session. At the same time, avoid drinking too much water before and during yoga to help curb indigestion. Zack Kurland, author of "Morning Yoga Workouts," recommends sipping water during your session, rather than gulping a bunch before heading into the studio. This prevents dehydration but also keeps from filling your stomach so full that you feel sick soon after completing a yoga session.

Yoga Poses

While some yoga poses might contribute to the development of indigestion, others are ideal for treating digestive disturbances. Incorporating these poses, in combination with healthy eating and drinking habits before and during yoga, helps treat current indigestion and strengthen your digestive system, helping to counteract future bouts. These poses stimulate your intestines, helping relieve indigestion. Vimla Lalvani, author of "The Power of Yoga," recommends Modified Bow pose. "Yoga Journal" suggests Full Boat pose, Seated Forward Bend pose and Warrior II pose.

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