Acidity: Know the Symptoms, Causes, and Home Remedies

2021-12-21 16:32:08

Acidity is a common problem in the modern world. Due to the consumption of junk food, irregular diet, and oily foods, people are prone to acidity. Now, do you know that there are several home remedies that can cure acidity? In this blog, we will know the causes, symptoms, as well as home remedies of acidity.

Acidity, also known as acid reflux, is a condition in which heartburn is felt around the lower area of the chest. It is also a common ailment that occurs when stomach acid flows back to the food pipe.

Causes of Acidity

Unhealthy Eating Habits- Spicy and greasy foods and carbonated beverages can cause acid reflux. Irregularity in eating due to a busy schedule and long working hours also leads to acidity.

Excessive consumption of food- Sometimes our craving for certain food-items or the taste of food makes us eat more than our appetite which leads to overeating and becomes the reason for acidity.

Side-effects of medicines- Several pain relievers and other common medicines leads to acidity as a possible side-effect. This leads to a burning sensation which is a common symptom of acid reflux.

Overconsumption of Caffeine- Tea, and coffee contain caffeine. Since people consume these without giving them a thought. It is the only source of refreshment for people stretching their office hours. Overconsumption of tea and coffee is also a cause of acid reflux.

Frequent consumption of alcohol and smoking, followed by lack of sleep- Alcohol can cause the stomach to produce more acid. According to the research conducted by the American College of Gastroenterology, alcohol relaxes the muscles around the stomach. This results in the leakage of the contents of the stomach. 

Stress and Anxiety- Stress and anxiety in themselves are serious conditions. This also results in the build-up of the acid in the stomach and causes acid reflux. This can result in indigestion as well as heartburn.

Symptoms of Acidity

The most common symptoms of acidity are-

The sensation of Heartburn- A burning sensation or discomfort. This may move gradually from the stomach to the abdomen or chest. In severe cases, it can even move into the throat.

Regurgitation– A sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the mouth or throat.

Apart from the common symptoms, there are other symptoms as well. These are-

• Bloating
• Black stools with blood
• Blood in vomit
• Burps
• Sensation of food being stuck in the throat
• Hiccups that don’t let up
• Nausea
• Sudden weight loss 
• Wheezing, dry cough or chronic sore throat

Prevention

• Never skip the meals and take the meals on time.
• Eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet without fail.
• Strictly avoid sour, spicy, greasy, and junk food.
• Say NO to smoking as well as limit the consumption of alcohol.
• Practice moderate workouts and be physically active.
• Maintain a proper sleeping pattern. Also, do not go to sleep immediately after having dinner.
• Practice meditation, yoga, meditation, as well as extra-curricular activities.

Home Remedies to Cure Acidity

Buttermilk

Coconut water

Coconut water is rich in fiber and cool in potency. Consuming 2 glasses of coconut water daily can help in relieving heartburn. It also helps to soothe the digestive system. It also protects the stomach from the effects of the production of excessive acid.

Cold milk

Milk is rich in calcium and provides instant relief from acidity. This is one of the simplest home remedies. Due to the calcium content, cold milk also prevent the build-up of acids in the stomach.

Ajwain 

Ajwain provide relief from acidity and flatulence. It is an anti-acidic agent and is also very good for digestion.

Tulsi leaves 

The properties of tulsi leaves help to lower the gastric acid secretions. It also stimulates the digestive system to increase the secretion of mucus. 

Chewing 2-3 tulsi leaves regularly can also help in providing instant relief from acidity.

Fennel (Saunf)

Consuming around a teaspoon of fennel powder with a glass of warm water relieves acidity. It also eases heartburn, bloating and improves digestion.

Cumin seeds

Cumin seeds are rich in antioxidants. It is helpful in treating all types of digestive issues. It stimulates saliva production which further aids the digestion process. Cumin seeds also work as a potent acid neutralizer and help to cure acidity, bloating, and flatulence.

Pudina leaves

Pudina leaves are a natural coolant. The carminative properties help in pacifying the acid secretions in the stomach. Pudina leaves are also known to soothe the acidity and also aids digestion. Mint tea is also a useful remedy to calm the irritation in the stomach.

Bananas And Almonds

Having bananas regularly helps in relieving symptoms of acid reflux. Consuming a handful of almonds or similar nuts also provide benefit in curing acidity. 

• Buttermilk is excellent for curing acid reflux. It contains lactic acid that gives a soothing effect and also normalizes the acidity. 
• Consume a glass of buttermilk with a pinch of black pepper and coriander. It helps in easing the symptoms of acidity.