Gastric Hyperacidity also known as acid dyspepsia, indicated by excessive production of gastric acid in the stomach.
The stomach secretes acid that is essential to carry out the digestive process. Although, when there is an excess production of this acid, it leads to hyperacidity. It is basically an imbalance between the acid-secreting mechanism of the stomach and the protective mechanisms involved.
Primary Symptoms:-
- Acid reflux (Heartburn)
- Gastritis
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Sour or bitter belching.
- Throat burn.
- Regurgitation of food or sour substance
- Gaseous distention of abdomen
Factors causing it are mainly lifestyle related and whatever may be the root cause for it, the primary step is to de-root the causes from your routine.
External Factors:-
- Prolong intake of medications may also cause acidity.
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Stress
- High intake of spicy or oily foods or intake of certain foods that triggers acidity.
- Irregular eating pattern, eating large meals and lying down right after meals.
- Lack of physical activity
Whatever may be the cause for it, the primary step is to de-root the cause from your routine. These digestive problems can become severe, if left untreated and may cause a host of other disorders like stomach ulcers, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and various other health problems.
Recommended dietary suggestions:-
Food can either help treat the condition or may even aggravate the condition. So, it is not just important to know the right type of food but to also take small and frequent meals at intervals. Also, ideally diet should be bland, soft and easy to digest.
- Include liquids like Coconut water, watermelon juice, puree or juices of vegetables and fruits
- Egg whites (avoid yolks), washed green gram dal
- Include barley, old rice and potatoes in the diet.
- In fruits bananas, dates, figs, apple, papaya and pomegranate can be added to the diet.
- Carrot leaves, celery leaves and curry leaves are helpful in controlling acidity.
- Vegetables like carrot, bitter gourd, white pumpkin, cucumber, and beetroot are good for relieving acidity.
- Include only Healthy fats - avocados, almonds, walnuts, olive oil, sesame oil, flaxseed oil.
- Include ample amount of water and follow an active lifestyle.
However, intake of certain foods like rice, milk, mint, wheat is controversial and depends upon individual to individual, as it may act as a trigger food for some.
Practice a few remedies for instant relief:-
- A spoonful of ginger juice post meals
- Sucking on a piece of clove
- Infusion of coriander seeds taken with sugar twice a day.
- Having 2 tsp of gulkand ( sweet preserve of rose petals) with water post meals.
Things to Avoid:-
- Avoid processed foods and soya fermented foods
- Spicy, oily, fried food
- Avoid lying down immediately after having food in the supine position
- Avoid untimely meals and late night meals
- Practice mental relaxation techniques
In a nutshell, following good eating habits, healthy lifestyle and precautions along with proper medication from a doctor can aid in improving the condition.