Acid reflux, commonly known as acidity, is a condition where bile or stomach acids flow back into our oesophagus or food pipe and cause irritation. We all have there-enjoying extra spicy and oily meals and later feel a burning sensation in our chest. Has it ever happened to you? If yes, then this burning sensation is known as acidity and is a very common type of stomach issue. Acidity can be caused by a variety of factors, including spicy foods, oily foods, junk foods, irregular eating habits, alcohol consumption, and regular smoking. This also causes difficulty in swallowing. Hiccups, indigestion, and frequent burping are some of the symptoms of acidity. It can be quite frustrating as it stops you from enjoying your favourite meals and leads you towards various discomforts. 

To further support your efforts in managing acidity, consider incorporating these dietary tips into your daily routine:

1. Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals:

• Instead of having large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This approach helps prevent excessive stomach acid production and reduces the chances of acid reflux.

2. Avoid Trigger Foods:

• Identify and avoid foods that trigger your acidity. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, and caffeinated beverages. Keeping a food diary can help you pinpoint and eliminate these triggers.

3. Opt for Alkaline Foods:

• Incorporate alkaline foods such as bananas, melons, and leafy greens into your diet. These foods help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from acidity.

4. Stay Hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps dilute stomach acid and aids in digestion.

5. Avoid Eating Late at Night:

• Try to have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before going to bed. Eating late can increase the likelihood of acid reflux as lying down soon after eating allows acid to flow back into the esophagus.

Acidity Problems? 8 Home Remedies That Can Help

Here are some simple home remedies that can help you deal with acidity and gastric issues immediately:

Basil leaves: The carminative and soothing properties of basil leaves can enable instant relief from acidity. As soon as you feel a burning sensation in your stomach, eat 3/4 basil leaves or boil 3/4 basil leaves in a cup of water and let them boil for 3/4 minutes. Sip the water immediately, and this will be the best for treating acidity at home. You can also include daily exercise and natural therapies in your daily routine.

Fennel or saunf: You can have one tablespoon of fennel with a glass of warm water as it will help in relieving acidity and its symptoms such as; burning sensation, weak digestion, bloating and heartburn. You can also chew a saunf after your meal as it will help with proper digestion. You can also have fennel tea because it helps the digestive tract be healthy and happy. This is considered helpful in acidity because of the oils found in these seeds.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon is known as a humble spice that works as a natural antacid for the stomach’s acidity and helps in settling stomach pain by improving absorption and digestion. You can drink cinnamon tea as it can help in healing infections in your stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Cinnamon is beneficial as it is full of nutrients and loaded with additional health benefits.

Buttermilk: A normal “Chaas”  or buttermilk can also work as a helpful and beneficial home remedy for acid reflux and heartburn. Buttermilk contains lactic acid that helps in normalising the acidity in your stomach. You can have a glass of buttermilk after a heavy meal as it will prevent you from having an acidity problem. Therefore, buttermilk has been introduced as a sattvic food in Ayurveda. Learn the benefits of Ayurveda retreats as it will be beneficial for you to have a healthy lifestyle.

Also read: 8 Best Wellness Retreats In India To Heal And Re-Discover Yourself

Jaggery: Have you ever wondered why our grandparents finished their meals with a jiggery (Gur)? They finish their meal with gur, which contains magnesium that helps in boosting intestinal strength. Furthermore, it also improves digestion and makes the digestive system stronger in nature, thus reducing the chances of acid reflux. You can eat a small piece of jaggery after your meal and enjoy various benefits, such as maintaining body temperature and having a cool stomach during summer. 

Cloves: Since the last few decades, cloves have created a special place in traditional medicine and also in Ayurveda treatments as they help in treating digestive disorders. This is carminative in nature and prevents the stomach from the formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract. You can add cloves while cooking spicy and oily foods such as kidney beans, which tend to cause flatulence. You can also visit an Ayurveda retreat in India just to effectively learn the importance and benefits of adding home remedies and natural therapies to your daily lifestyle. 

Cumin seeds: Cumin seeds also work as a powerful source for reducing stomach pain, improving digestion, and are hence known as a great acid neutralizer. Just crush some cumin seeds and add them to the glass of water, or you can also boil 1 tablespoon of cumin seeds and drink it after the meal. This also works as a wonder.

Ginger: Ginger contains various types of digestive and anti-inflammatory properties and is hence known as the most effective home remedy to treat acid reflux. You can add a slice of ginger to every meal, or you can also chew a slice of fresh ginger. Furthermore; you can boil it in a glass of water until it is half of a glass and then drink the water. This would definitely work as a helpful heartburn cure.

If you are experiencing acidity symptoms for more than three days, then you must visit the doctor as you might be suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Involve home remedies and Ayurveda treatments in your daily routine lifestyle to stay healthy and fit. If you want to rejuvenate yourself with the help of Ayurveda, then you must visit Nimba Nature Cure Village. They offer naturopathy treatments for gastro-intestinal diseases such as natural treatment for hyperacidity, natural gastritis treatment, fatty liver ayurvedic treatment, and ulcerative colitis treatment. Their team of Ayurveda experts will guide you through various essential and beneficial home remedies.