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Indigestion is one of the conditions that affects more women than men. Common symptoms include bloating after meals, early satiety, upper abdominal pain and heartburn. Jeong Hae-in, a professor of gastroenterology at Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital, said, "Indigestion can worsen during winter as lower temperatures cause the body to contract naturally and reduce physical activity, which in turn slows down stomach function and movement." Rapid temperature changes and cold weather activate the body's sympathetic nervous system, leading to decreased gastrointestinal motility.

Because indigestion is a common issue, there are many misconceptions about how to manage it. One widespread belief is that skipping meals can help. Professor Jeong said, "Repeatedly skipping meals due to indigestion can actually weaken stomach function further. The most important aspect of managing chronic indigestion is eating small amounts at regular times."

Cabbage is often consumed by those suffering from indigestion because it is known to be beneficial for the stomach. While it does help protect the stomach lining and can be effective for gastritis and stomach ulcers, it may not be suitable for indigestion patients who experience bloating, as it can produce excess gas.

Drinking milk to reduce heartburn can also be counterproductive. Professor Jeong said, "Milk's slightly alkaline properties can temporarily neutralize stomach acid, making one feel relief. However, since the body produces more acid to digest the proteins in milk, heartburn can return after some time." Instead, drinking warm water is a better remedy for heartburn.

Chronic indigestion can be caused by overeating, spicy foods, excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, and irregular lifestyle habits. "Since chronic indigestion tends to fluctuate between improvement and worsening, relying on misconceptions rather than seeking medical advice can be harmful. It is best to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis," she said.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.