Acidity: Causes and Effective Home Remedies

Heartburn is marked by a burning sensation in the chest, just below the breastbone. This discomfort often intensifies after eating, during the night, or when lying down or leaning over.

While heartburn is common and usually not a cause for concern, many people can manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. However, frequent acid reflux or symptoms that interfere with daily activities might indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention. Many dietitians suggest dietary adjustments to alleviate acidity and detoxify the body.

What Is Acidity?

Acidity is a condition caused by excess stomach acid production, leading to symptoms like stomach ulcers, gastric irritation, heartburn, and dyspepsia. It often results from irregular eating habits, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking, stress, fad diets, and poor eating habits. Areas with high consumption of spicy, greasy, or non-vegetarian foods are more prone to acidity.

Certain medications, such as NSAIDs, can increase the risk of developing stomach acidity. A deep burning sensation typically marks acidity, which is also associated with indigestion and constipation.

Causes of Acidity1. Eating Habits

• Consuming spicy, peppery, vinegary, or paprika-rich dishes

• Deep-fried and greasy foods

• Excessive caffeine from tea, coffee, or chocolate

• Overuse of table salt

• Fiber-deficient diet

• Overeating or irregular eating patterns

• Unhealthy practices, like lying down immediately after eating

• Eating just before vigorous physical activity

2. Lifestyle

• Smoking

• Excessive alcohol, soft drink, and carbonated beverage consumption

• Inadequate sleep

• Insufficient physical activity

3. Medications

• Stress, anxiety, or depression

• Conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and stomach cancer

• Pain relievers, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and antidepressants

Symptoms of Acidity1. Heartburn

A burning sensation in the chest, from beneath the ribcage to the throat, caused by stomach acid rising into the throat.

2. Nausea

Stomach acids can cause a foul taste in the mouth, leading to nausea and possibly vomiting.

3. Cough

Acid reflux can inflame the esophagus, larynx, or voice box, resulting in a persistent cough, wheezing, or other breathing issues.

4. Regurgitation

The sensation of stomach contents backing up into the throat and mouth, often leaving a bitter taste.

5. Hoarse Voice

Persistent exposure to stomach acid can affect the voice box, causing discomfort while speaking and a sore throat.

6. Difficulty Swallowing

Acid reflux may irritate and damage the larynx, which is crucial for breathing, speaking, and swallowing.

Home Remedies to Cure Acidity1. Ripe Banana

High in potassium, ripe bananas help neutralize stomach acid. Avoid unripe bananas as they may aggravate acid reflux.

2. Black Cumin Seeds

Crush roasted cumin seeds and mix them with water or steep them in boiling water to aid digestion and relieve discomfort.

3. Fennel

Mix fennel powder with warm water for immediate relief from acidity and heartburn.

4. Cold Milk

For those who are not lactose intolerant, milk can stabilize gastric acidity due to its high calcium content.

5. Gum

Chewing gum may reduce acidity by increasing saliva production, which helps clear the esophagus.

6. Ginger

Known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, consuming fresh ginger or ginger juice can help neutralize stomach acids.

7. Buttermilk

Also known as "chaas," buttermilk contains lactic acid that helps normalize stomach acidity.

8. Almonds

Raw almonds help neutralize gastric acid and aid digestion due to their natural oils and high fiber content.

Conclusion

Home remedies can help with occasional heartburn and mild acidity. However, persistent acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions like esophageal ulcers or cancer. Consult a gastroenterologist to understand how these remedies can complement a medical treatment plan.

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