Acidity Home Remedies
Home remedies for acidity make it easy to treat the condition of excessive secretion of acids in the stomach during the process of digestion. the remedies include consuming plantains, cumin seeds, orange juice, cloves, milk, honey, apple cider vinegar, ginger, jaggery, aerated drinks, coconut water, coriander leaves, leafy vegetables, and sprouts, among a number of other similar food products.
The remedies help to treat this serious stomach disorder, which is a synonym for heartburn and excessive gas formation. In this, the gastric juices or acids inside the body and stomach are produced in excessive amounts, leading to the condition of acidity.
A proper level of hydrochloric acid is required to digest food by breaking it into simpler forms. However, in the case of excessive secretion of this acid by the gastric glands, and leads to the surplus production of pepsin and other enzymes. All of this contributes to acidity, which may occur in people from different age groups.
Causes Of Acidity
As mentioned earlier, acidity is caused due to the excessive production of acids in the body. However, there must be some conditions or causes that contribute to this potentially dangerous situation. The most significant contributing factor is the consumption of food that lacks fiber and is highly refined and processed. It may also be caused due to abnormal mental conditions like chronic stress or anxiety. Food containing a high content of spices or capsaicin also leads to acidity. Bad eating habits like overeating and fast eating may also compel acidity to occur in the body.
Smoking and alcohol may also contribute significantly towards it. Keeping your stomach empty for a long time is a key factor leading to acidity. And insomnia and the lack of proper exercise may also cause it.
Heartburn: This is the symptom of acidity that when shows up, cannot be ignored without medication. It is a burning feeling in the chest, just behind the breastbone. One may experience it right after eating and it may continue from a minute to an hour. Heartburn is a very common problem with acid reflux patients and is also one that shouldn’t be left untreated as it can lead to life-threatening conditions like Barett’s Esophagus, cancer, etc. It is also important that you check with your doctor if you experience chest pain while exercising or exerting yourself, as this can also be the sign of heart attack. The symptom of heartburn reaches a high when you lie down, resulting from the movement of acid from the stomach (where it actually belongs) towards the esophagus.
Asthma: Acidity can also trigger asthma. This is because, with the constant coughing and acid reflux, the air passage and lungs get affected, thereby making it difficult to breathe. Another reason for this is that when acid enters the esophagus, it triggers a nerve reflex which narrows down the airway to keep the acid from entering. This results in asthma or difficulty in breathing.
So, if your abdominal pain accompanies any of these symptoms, then you’re probably suffering from acidity. Although, it is highly recommended that you see a doctor because these symptoms can also be a sign of a more dangerous condition.
Regurgitation: Next in line is the symptom of regurgitation. When you get this feeling of acid accumulating in your mouth or throat, it is a sign of acid reflux. It makes the taste of your mouth bitter and makes you feel pukish.
Sore Throat: A sore throat in acid reflux can come in many forms. These include esophagitis, which pesters the tissues lining the throat; and dysphagia, wherein the patient suffers from a difficulty in swallowing food. Besides, one may also experience hoarseness, coughing, inflammation, throat pain, etc. as a result of acidity. These classic cold and flu symptoms can also be indicating another issue that is acidity.
Effects Of Acidity
Acidity is a serious disorder, which may lead to further problems like acid reflux and dyspepsia. Also, it may give rise to situations like constipation and food swallowing disorders. A person suffering from it is prone to pain while contracting muscles and also, a sensation of pain in the ears.
Curd with Vegetables
According to an article published in the American Chronicle, one of the very simplest home remedies includes the preparation of Raita, which is curd mixed with grated vegetables like tomatoes, coriander, or cucumbers. This definitely aids digestions and helps in the elimination of acidity.
As a final word of caution, you should not just completely rely on home remedies if your symptoms are severe. If you’re experiencing too much discomfort, then you should make sure to see a doctor.
Ginger Juice
Ginger juice, mixed with roasted cumin seeds and rock salt, happens to be an excellent option for the treatment of acidity.
Onion Juice
One of the most important home remedies for acidity is fresh onion juice.
Coconut Water
Coconut water and aerated drinks are also helpful in targeting acidity and restoring the normal secretion of stomach acids.
Anise Seeds
Boiled water, along with anise seeds are great ideas to treat acidity. Allow the mixture to stand for some time and then add a spoonful of honey to enhance its effectiveness in treating acidity.
Pineapples and Oranges
Pineapple and orange juice, with added salt, are also effective in fighting against acidity.
Mint Leaves
It is also a good idea to chew mint leaves with boiled water to keep acidity at bay. Mint juice is also advised for the same purpose.
Fruits and Nuts
Almonds, cucumbers, lemons, lemon juice, watermelons, and bananas are also recommended nature-based home products for the treatment of acidity.
Aloe Vera
The aloe plant can also be a good home treatment for curing acidity, according to an article published in The Hindu, one of the best Indian Newspapers.
Ginger
Ginger is a natural remedy for the treatment of acidity. In fact, it is recommended to add a touch of ginger to every food item to keep the body free from acidity.
Jaggery
Jaggery in appropriate amounts is also among the most effective home-based remedies for acidity. It is good to consume small amounts of this product (around 10 grams) along with your meal.
Drinking Water
It is a natural home remedy to drink two glasses of water in the morning regularly. This helps to maintain the level of acids in the stomach.
White Vinegar
White vinegar, when taken with meals, helps to lessen acidity and also aids in the proper digestion of food. It is recommended to take two spoonfuls of white vinegar with every meal.
