Things That Cause Acidity + Top Remedies To Treat Acid Reflux

Human digestion is a complex process and it required production of a number of acids and digestive juices to break down food into smaller units. However, sometimes these acids and juices are produced in excessive or lower amount, leading to a series of symptoms indicating indigestion.

One such condition that may arise because of excessive production of acid in the stomach is called acidity. The gastric glands of the stomach typically produce 1.5 liters of hydrochloric acid each day to break down food into smaller units. The excess production of the acid may lead to acidity, which basically refers to a collection of symptoms.

Acidity may arise because of an imbalance in the production of acid or wear and tear of the protective lining on the inner side of the stomach. There are a number of acidity causes, including dietary and lifestyle-related factors responsible for the symptoms associated with the condition, including heartburn, constipation, nausea, acid reflux and burning sensation in the throat and stomach.

Primary Acidity Causes:

There are several factors that trigger the production of excessive amounts of acid in the stomach and lead to a series of discomforting symptoms. From day-to-day stress to bad dietary choices and habits, there are a number of things that may affect the production of acid or the functioning of the sphincter that keeps the acid in the stomach and prevents it from reaching the oesophagus. Acidity treatment is required if the acidity or acid reflux symptoms appear more than twice a week.

Some of the common acidity causes include:

Often consuming spicy, fatty and fried food

Lying down immediately after having food

Consuming large portions of meal than recommended

Obesity

Maintaining no gap between dinner and bedtime

Smoking

Alcoholism

Consumption of caffeine-containing drinks

Pregnancy

Medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin and hypertension drugs

Acidity Treatment: How To Cure Acidity?

People often wonder how to cure acidity at home or through medicines available in the market. While people who often suffer from the condition may require more serious acidity treatment such as vagotomy or the use of proton pump inhibitors and histamine blocking agents.

However, people with mild form of acidity can have an antacid commonly available at a chemist shop. Such antacids contain either magnesium, calcium or aluminum compounds that work be neutralizing the excess acid produced in the body.

Other forms of acidity treatment include herbal remedies that can be easily prepared at home. The key to finding an effective home remedy against acidity is to identify specific food items that are either basic in nature, trigger production of saliva or have soothing and calming properties.

For example, chewing a gum for 30 minutes after every meal triggers production of saliva in the mouth, which, in turn, helps dilute the excess acid produced in the stomach. On the other hand, things like mint and basil leaves have soothing properties that help cure inflammation in the digestive tract.

Other common home remedies involves the use of anti-acidity foods such as banana, apples, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, aloe juice, apple cider vinegar and ginger.

It is important for people at a greater risk of acidity to maintain a healthy weight, wear loose fitting clothes and have their meals at least two hours before hitting the bed at night. In addition, they must stay away from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.