Indigestion from Whole Grains

Causes
Gluten Intolerance
Fiber Counts
Remedies
Considerations

Written by Carly Schuna

14 July, 2011

Fact Checked

According to the National Institutes of Health, indigestion encompasses a variety of symptoms, including an uncomfortable sensation of fullness during or after eating and pain or a burning feeling in your upper abdomen. Although several causes can spur indigestion, high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, are notorious for bringing it on or exacerbating existing symptoms.

Causes

Whole grains and whole-grain products tend to be high in dietary fiber. While fiber actually has profound benefits for the digestive system, suddenly increasing your fiber intake or regularly eating a lot of high-fiber foods can cause gas and indigestion. Although indigestion can be uncomfortable, the NIH reports that most cases are mild and are not symptoms of any severe health condition.

Gluten Intolerance

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People who have celiac do not tolerate gluten, a protein compound that is found in the whole grains wheat, rye and barley. One way to judge whether you may have celiac or not is to keep a detailed food journal for several weeks. In your journal, write down the times you eat wheat, rye or barley products, how much you eat and how you feel in the hours following. If you consistently get indigestion or related symptoms after eating those products, share your experiences with your doctor.

People who have celiac do not tolerate gluten, a protein compound that is found in the whole grains wheat, rye and barley.
In your journal, write down the times you eat wheat, rye or barley products, how much you eat and how you feel in the hours following.

Fiber Counts

If you suspect that whole grains are contributing to chronic indigestion for you, it may help to lay off the most fiber-rich grain sources and get more fiber through alternate food sources, such as fruits and vegetables.

Remedies

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Indigestion from whole grains is often mild and can be relieved with simple home remedies or over-the-counter products, such as antacids. Health professionals at Columbia University also recommend attempting to relieve indigestion by reducing stress in your life through exercise, meditation or yoga.

Considerations

If your indigestion is severe and chronic, interferes with your daily life or is accompanied by other troublesome symptoms, see your doctor before changing your diet or giving up whole grains.