By Dr Prachi Garg +2more
Medically reviewed byDr Prachi Garg
Last updated: Jun 20, 2024
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Acid Reflux, commonly known as Acidity is a condition in which bile or stomach acids flow back into our oesophagus or food pipe and cause irritation.
This results in a burning sensation in our chest which is the commonest symptom of acidity.
Table of Contents
Symptoms of Acidity Are:
- Pain and burning sensation in the chest, stomach or throat
- Flatulence or Gas
- Indigestion
- Bad Breath
- Constipation
- Nausea or feeling of vomiting
- Heaviness in the stomach after eating
- Frequent burps
- Regurgitation of undigested food coming back in our mouth
Did You Know?
- GER is common, with about 20% of people in the United States experiencing GERD. source: NIH
- More than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month. source: magazine.medlineplus.gov
- GERD is more common in overweight individuals and pregnant women. source: niddk.nih.gov
- GERD is more common in men than in women. source: NIH
Common Causes of Acidity:
- Over-eating
- Eating at odd times or skipping meals
- Unhealthy eating habits like having too much tea, coffee, cold- drinks, junk, spicy, oily food etc.
- Stomach ailments like Ulcers, Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), etc.
- A bad lifestyle like taking too much stress, sleeping less, smoking, drinking alcohol etc.
Acidity has been confused with other conditions, here is a quick guide to understanding these terms better:
| Common Terms | Meanings |
| Acid Reflux/Acidity | – The oesophagus carries food from your mouth to the stomach- When the oesophagal muscle is weak or malfunctioning it allows acid to go back up the tube- This causes a number of symptoms all of which fall under the condition of acid reflux or acidity |
| Heartburn | – Heartburn is a symptom of acidity- When the acid moves up the oesophagus, it touches the lining of the tube and causes a sharp burning sensation in the chest- It is sometimes mistaken for a heart attack but it can be milder as well- Heartburn usually occurs after eating and can get worse if you bend over- despite the name, it is not connected to any heart issue |
| GERD | – GERD is a chronic (long term) form of acid reflux- It is usually due to damage, deformation or other issues with the oesophagal muscle- It can be more severe than regular acidity- While GERD is mistaken for heart attacks, sometimes GERD patients get heart attacks but assume it is an acidity attack |
| Gas | – Burping or feeling bloated with gas is common after eating, some people experience more severe gas- In some people, it may be a chronic issue due to dietary habits- The same foods and lifestyle that cause acid reflux may also lead to gas |
Home Remedies for Acidity:
1. Fennel or Saunf
Having around 1 teaspoon fennel powder with a glass of warm water relieves acidity and its symptoms like heartburn, bloating and improves digestion. [1]
2. Black Cumin Seeds
Chew cumin seeds directly or boil 1 teaspoon of them in a glass of water and drink it to relieve acidity.
Black cumin seeds are gastro-protective. They are effective in reducing and preventing acidity and its symptoms like heartburn, pain, nausea, bloating, constipation etc. [2]
Read More: 10 Health Benefits of Sabja Seeds
3. Cloves
Suck a piece of clove to get rid of acidity and its symptoms like flatulence, indigestion, nausea, gastric irritability etc. [3]
Whenever there are symptoms of acidity especially in elderly and middle age population,one should always visit a physician,I have witnessed few cases where people have ignored the persistent acidity symptoms which eventually turned out to be a case of coronary heart disease. A timely diagnosis can prevent mortality and morbidity in such patients.
Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS MD, CCEBDM
4. Lukewarm Water
Drinking a glass of lukewarm water empty stomach and before going to sleep at night, provides relief from acidity.
5. Watermelon Juice
A glass of watermelon juice is effective in relieving acidity and is good for digestion as well. [4]
6. Cardamom
Chewing 1 cardamom pod every day helps to prevent acidity, flatulence and improves digestion [5]
Also Read: Dietary Tips: Foods To Avoid With Acid Reflux
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar contains proteins, enzymes and pectin making it a highly nutritious addition to your diet. Some people claim that acid reflux may be caused by reduced amounts of stomach acid and this vinegar can introduce more acid into the system. However, further research is required. [14]
I recall a case of a gentleman who experienced symptoms resembling acidity. Unfortunately, instead of seeking medical advice, he relied on his regular acidity medication, which provided no substantial relief. Tragically, he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest merely two days later. In reality, he was suffering from angina, but continued to exert himself through lengthy walks in an attempt to alleviate his perceived acidity symptoms. The essential message I aim to convey is the importance of consulting a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis from the very beginning, as there are numerous instances where symptoms of heartburn and heart attacks are mistakenly interchanged.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
8. Almonds
Almonds are rich in nutrients and fibre, both of which may help to reduce the risk of heartburn and also absorb acid. Though there is no substantial clinical evidence for the same, the nutritional profile of almonds speaks for itself. In a broader sense, acidity issues are also linked with appetite and diet. Almonds can help regulate these factors due to their high nutritional value. [15]
9. Jaggery
Jaggery contains both potassium and magnesium, a lump of jaggery may just be what you need to calm your roiling tummy. Potassium is essential for maintaining pH balance and stimulating the production of mucus in the stomach lining. This prevents an acid overload and helps relieve your symptoms. Magnesium is required for keeping your digestive system strong and functioning normally, which reduces the risk of acidity and other digestive issues. [16]
10. Mint Leaves
Mint leaves not only aid in digestion but also bring a cooling effect to your entire system. For temporary relief as well as long term support against acid reflux, mint leaves are a simple yet elegant solution. [17]
11. Buttermilk
The lactic acid in buttermilk normalizes the acidity in the stomach and gives a soothing effect. A glass of buttermilk topped with black pepper and coriander helps in instantly easing our symptoms of acidity. [6]
Read More: 11 Health Benefits of Buttermilk
12. Ginger
Chewing raw ginger or drinking ginger tea can prevent acidity and aid digestion. Ginger stimulates digestive juices, helping break down food and preventing excess stomach acid. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe the digestive system, reducing discomfort from acidity. [7]
Also Read: 10 Health Benefits of Garlic
13. Banana
Bananas are effective in neutralizing acidity and alleviating heartburn. Combining banana with milk can further help suppress excessive acid production, offering relief from digestive issues. This natural remedy provides soothing effects and promotes digestive comfort. [8]
14. Papaya
Papaya is beneficial for reducing gastric acid secretion and easing acidity due to its natural enzyme, papain. Papain assists in digestion by breaking down proteins and supporting a more balanced pH in the stomach. This enzyme’s properties contribute to relieving symptoms associated with acidity, making papaya a natural remedy for digestive discomfort.. [9]
15. Ajwain
Consuming ajwain provides relief from acidity and flatulence. It is renowned for its digestive benefits and serves as an effective anti-acidic agent. Ajwain helps soothe the stomach and alleviate discomfort associated with acidity, making it a valuable natural remedy for digestive issues.. [10]
16. Cold Milk
Drinking a glass of cold milk is known to provide instant relief from acidity. The milk helps neutralize excess stomach acid, reducing the burning sensation and discomfort associated with acidity quickly and effectively. [11]
17. Baking Soda
Consuming a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 cup of water provides rapid relief from acidity and heartburn. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, works by neutralizing stomach acid, easing the discomfort caused by acid reflux and heartburn effectively. [12]
18. Turmeric
Adding turmeric to our diet can help alleviate acidity and the associated heartburn. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive system and reduce irritation caused by excess stomach acid. Integrating turmeric into meals or consuming it as a supplement may provide relief from acidity and related symptoms. [13]
Read More: 13 Health Benefits of Turmeric
19. Sleeping on Your Left Side
If the aforementioned food-related suggestions don’t help you out, you can always try out some non-food related ways like sleeping on your left side! Anatomy has got to do a great deal with this method of dealing with acidity. Since the oesophagus enters from the right side of the stomach, laying on our left side means the lower oesophagal sphincter lies above the level of stomach acid.
If you lie on your right side, the stomach acid covers this sphincter which increases the risk of acid reflux.
20. Chew on Some Gum
Some studies show that chewing on some gum may help reduce the acidity as the bicarbonate in it can help neutralise the acid to prevent reflux. More substantial research is required to support this finding but chewing gum can also create more saliva which can help in clearing the oesophagus.
21. Raise Your Head While Sleeping
Changing the position in which your sleep by raising the bed’s head so that the symptoms of acid reflux can be reduced is another home remedy that may help. Studies show that people who used a wedge to support and elevate their upper body had lessened acid reflux than those who slept in a flat manner.
In Addition to the Above, Certain Lifestyle Changes can also Help to Prevent Acidity. They are:
- Stay active and engage in any kind exercise, be it swimming, cycling, dancing or any of your favourite sport.
- Eat smaller meals, 4 to 5 times a day.
- Have your dinner early, at least 2 hours before you hit the bed.
- Don’t overeat and chew your food well while eating.
- Don’t lie down immediately after a meal.
- Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
- Raise the head end of your bed while lying down.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
Avoid Foods That Trigger Acidity like:
- Very spicy and oily food
- Tea, coffee, cold drinks
- Raw onions, garlic
- Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, kiwis
- Tomatoes
- Junk food, etc.
Also Read: Pantoprazole Foods to Avoid
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the fastest way to cure acidity?
Boil some mint leaves in water and drink a glass of this after meals. This is an instant remedy. You may also try other things like sucking on a piece of clove to get relief from acidity.
What should I do if I get acidity everyday?
A sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits can cause acidity frequently.
If you experience severe heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms or conditions often, you must contact the doctor. In case you are having difficulty swallowing or taking pills for acidity everyday and no home remedies are working for you, it’s time to seek medical help.
Which doctor should I consult for acidity?
A gastroenterologist will be able to help you in relieving the symptoms and providing treatment for acidity.
Which foods can I eat to avoid acid reflux?
You can eat vegetables such as spinach, cucumber, carrot, broccoli, cabbage, sweet potato, peas, pumpkin and fruits, especially bananas, apples, watermelon, you can also eat unsweetened yogurt, fenugreek, beans, nuts and seeds, such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, to avoid acid reflux.
Does acidity cause chest Pain?
Yes, acidity can cause chest pain when stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, a condition known as acid reflux or heartburn. This discomfort is typically felt in the chest area, often behind the breastbone, due to the proximity of the esophagus to the heart.
Does acidity cause neck Pain?
Acidity typically does not cause neck pain directly. However, severe acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) may lead to discomfort that radiates upward, potentially causing a sensation of throat tightness or irritation, which can be mistaken for neck pain.
Does lemon cause acidity?
Lemon itself is acidic in nature, but it can have an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized. However, consuming large amounts of lemon or highly concentrated lemon juice may exacerbate acidity in individuals prone to acid reflux or GERD due to its acidic pH, potentially triggering symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Does acidity cause fever?
Acidity itself does not cause fever. Fever is typically a response to infections or inflammatory conditions caused by viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. However, severe cases of acid reflux or GERD could potentially cause throat irritation or inflammation, which might lead to discomfort resembling a feverish sensation, but this is not a true fever caused by infection.
Can acidity cause headache?
Acidity itself is not directly linked to causing headaches. However, severe acid reflux or GERD can lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep patterns, which may indirectly contribute to headaches in some individuals. Additionally, stress and anxiety often associated with acid reflux can also trigger tension headaches.
Are acidity and pitta same?
Acidity and pitta are related concepts in Ayurveda, where pitta is one of the three doshas (bioenergies) governing bodily functions. Pitta dosha, when aggravated, can lead to symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, and acidity. Thus, while they are not exactly the same, an imbalance in pitta dosha can contribute to acidity and related digestive issues.
Is curd good for acidity?
Yes, curd (yogurt) is often considered beneficial for managing acidity. It contains probiotics that can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding digestion and reducing symptoms of acid reflux. However, individual tolerance may vary, and some people with severe acid reflux or lactose intolerance may find curd exacerbates their symptoms.
Is coconut water good for acidity?
Yes, coconut water is generally considered good for acidity. It is alkaline in nature and can help neutralize excess stomach acid, providing relief from symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. Additionally, coconut water is hydrating and contains electrolytes, which can further support digestive health. However, as with any food or beverage, individual responses may vary, so it’s advisable to observe how your body reacts to coconut water.
Is ice cream good for acidity?
Ice cream may worsen acidity for some individuals due to its high fat content, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and allow acid to reflux into the esophagus. Therefore, moderation is advised for those prone to acidity.
Is acidity dangerous?
Acidity itself is not typically dangerous, but chronic acidity or acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions if left untreated, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or esophagitis. It’s important to manage acidity symptoms to prevent potential complications.
Is acidity and acid reflux same?
In common usage, “acidity” and “acid reflux” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort or pain. However, acidity can also refer more broadly to the level of acid in the stomach, while acid reflux specifically describes the movement of that acid upwards.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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