Understanding Acidity

The burning sensation in chest could be acidity. If care is not taken it may lead to peptic ulcer diseases (PUD).

Causes of Acidity

Problem of acidity increases with age. Inappropriate eating habits like consumption of fat, sugar, salt and alcohol in excess often lead to acidity. Excess secretion of hydrochloric acid or other digestive juices in the stomach is another common cause. Skipping breakfast, staying hungry for long hours, stress, pregnancy, spending too much time in sun may also cause acidity.

Signs and Symptoms of Acidity

There are many signs and symptoms of acidity. Most common signs include pain in chest, burning sensation in upper abdomen / chest after a few hours of meals, bitter taste in mouth and feeling hungry frequently.

An occasional loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, belching, coughing and pain during muscle contraction are other symptoms. Due to formation of ulcers in food pipe there may be a slight change in voice.

Home Remedies for Acidity

A small glass of cold milk gives a quick relief to chest burn. Instead of cold milk, one may even have a vanilla ice cream with nuts. It is also helpful in prevention of ulcers due to acidity. Drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water maintains balance of digestive juices and acids secreted in the stomach.

For instant relief put a little salt in a glass of pineapple juice or orange juice and drink it. Drinking green tea during afternoon meals or consuming milk tea after every meal helps in acidity. Coconut water gives instant relief from chest burn. For best results drink it every day. One may even drink a small glass of potato juice before afternoon and evening meals. Using ginger in cooking provides better digestion and prevents occurrence of heartburns.

Role of Diet and Exercise

Avoid eating very spicy food and use of all kinds of chilies must be minimal. Eating too much sugar worsens acidity. Therefore, a balanced diet is necessary. Studies show that brisk walking helps in prevention of acidity. It is also helpful in treatment of gastritis.

Acidity is found to be common in people with emotional sensitive nature. Leading a healthy lifestyle is the only permanent cure for acidity.