Hyperacidity, also known as acid dyspepsia, is a common issue bothering most people. It is a medical disorder where the stomach produces an excess of acids, mainly hydrochloric by the gastric glands.
Also Read: Acidity: Signs, Symptoms And Prevention

Hyperacidity is the result of an imbalance between the acid-secreting mechanism of the stomach and intestine and the shielding mechanism that provides safety. Generally, the stomach secretes hydrochloric acid which aids in the breaking down of food into smaller substances, thereby promoting the digestion process. However, when there is an excess build-up of hydrochloric acid in the stomach it leads to hyperactivity.


Belching A Lot? Try Some Of Our Wide-Range Of Ayurvedic Remedies To Treat Acidity!

Causes:

Some of the causative factors that lead to hyperacidity include:

• Poor eating habits.
• Erratic meal timings and having a very late dinner.
• Stress and anxiety.
• Eating a lot of spicy, fried and junk foods.
• Excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages, like coffee or tea.
• Physical inactivity.
• Going to bed soon after having food.
• Smoking and alcohol abuse.
• Continued usage of certain medications.
• Disturbed sleeping pattern.
• Other conditions that may cause include pregnancy, obesity, ageing, and fasting.

Some Of The Signs And Symptoms Include:

• Heartburn
• Bitter or sour belching
• Nausea and vomiting
• Throat irritation
• Abdominal distention
• Aversion towards food
• Mild chest pain
• Flatulence
• Poor Appetite
• Tiredness

Prevention And Home Remedies:

Hyperacidity can be very well managed following certain preventive measures and home remedies that offer respite from hyperacidity.

Prevention

• Practices mindful eating habits and eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
• Regularise meal patterns and timings.
• Avoid intake of spicy, sour, deep-fried and junk foods.
• Restrict the intake of caffeinated beverages.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Bee physically active and involve in moderate-intensity workouts.
• Maintain a proper sleeping pattern.
• Refrain from going to bed immediately after having food.
• Beat stress by involving in activities like yoga, meditation and cultivating some hobbies.

Additional Preventive Remedies To Alleviate Dyspepsia

Cut Down Acid Inducing Foods

If the acidity levels in the body are high, it is best to avoid foods that make heartburn worse such as spicy foods, fried foods, onions, citrus-based foods, peppermint, and certain kinds of chocolates.  Try some gluten-free food options that may help reduce the symptoms and regulate acid levels.

Lose Weight

People who are obese have more problems with acidity. Lose the extra pounds by making an exercise regime. To curb the hunger pangs, eat smaller and more frequent meals that have limited calories and eat at the right time. Instead of refined sugar, natural herb-based sugar options can be considered.

Go On A Low Carb Diet

Eating a high-calorie and high-carb diet will increase the production of excessive hydrochloric acid in the body. It is best to go for a low-carb-based meal plan at least for some parts of the day until the symptoms of dyspepsia alleviate.

Amazing Home Remedies To Combat Hyperacidity:

Tulsi leaves

The amazing carminative and anti-ulcer properties of tulsi leaves helps to lower the gastric acid secretions and stimulate the digestive system to increase the secretion of mucus. Chew 2-3 tulsi leaves regularly to get instant relief from hyperacidity.

Ginger

The potent anti-inflammatory effect of ginger lessens the flow back of stomach acid into the oesophagus, improves mucus production and works as a digestive aid. Have a glass of ginger tea soon after meals to get respite from acidity.

Cold Milk

Cold milk is one of the time tested natural remedy for hyperacidity. The richness of calcium in milk averts excess secretion of hydrochloric acids and also absorbs the acids in the stomach. Drinking a glass of cold milk offers instant relief from a burning sensation in the stomach or heartburn, however just have plain milk without the addition of sugar or sweeteners.

Mint Leaves

Mint leaves are a natural coolant and have impressive carminative properties to pacify the acid secretions in the stomach. It is known to soothe abdominal cramps, acidity, flatulence and works as a digestive aid. Sip on a cup of mint tea to calm the irritated tummy and lessen acid secretions.
Also Read: Pudina/Mint Leaves: Health Benefits Of Pudina Juice, Uses For Skin, Hair And Side Effects

Here is a simple herbal tea recipe with mint leaves, ginger and honey to cease acid reflux and soothe the tummy.

Mint And Ginger Tea

Ingredients:

9 – 11 fresh mint leaves

2 cups water

2 small ginger pieces, grated

3 tsp honey

Method:

Boil water in a kettle on medium flame.

Add the mint leaves and ginger to this and allow to cook for 5 – 7  minutes.

Turn off the stovetop and mix in the honey well.

Filter the blend using a strainer into a vessel, then pour the piping hot mint and ginger tea into cups and drink it after meals.

Wellness Tip:

During hyperacidity, the stomach’s natural pH is hampered, which results in constantly feeling bloated, besides encountering indigestion and flatulence. Sipping on warm fluids after meals, particularly post-dinner aids in rectifying the pH balance in the gut and ensures smooth assimilation of food before bedtime. Also consuming hot caffeine-free herbal beverages like mint and ginger tea must be done at a relatively slow pace, to stimulate the digestive processes, relieve dyspepsia and uplift gut health.

Cumin Seeds (Jeera)                                  

Ayurvedic medicine strongly recommends cumin seeds for treating all types of digestive woes. Cumin seeds stimulate saliva production which assists in the digestion process. It works as a potent acid neutralizer and helps to get cleared off acidity, bloating, flatulence and also heals the ulcer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Causes Acid Dyspepsia?

Acid dyspepsia, or acid indigestion, can be caused by various factors including overeating, eating too quickly, having very spicy or fatty foods, stress, smoking, and certain medications that can irritate or inflame the stomach lining.

What Is The Best Medicine For Dyspepsia?

The best medicine for dyspepsia depends on the underlying cause. Antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and H2-receptor antagonists are commonly used to treat acid indigestion. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is essential.

What Foods Trigger Dyspepsia?

Some people experience dyspepsia when they eat spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. Other common triggers include caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and carbonated beverages.

What Are The Alarming Symptoms Of Dyspepsia?

Alarming symptoms of dyspepsia include persistent or severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting blood. These symptoms may be a sign of serious underlying health problems and need prompt medical care.

What Is Functional Dyspepsia?

Functional dyspepsia is a chronic medical condition of sensation and movement in the stomach. It is characterized by recurrent or long-term pain or uneasiness localised in the upper region of the stomach without any evidence of any disease.

Is Dyspepsia The Same As Indigestion?

Yes, dyspepsia is another term for indigestion. It describes a range of symptoms that occur in the upper abdomen, including pain or discomfort, bloating, and feeling full too quickly.

How Serious Is Acid Indigestion?

Acid indigestion is usually not serious and can be effectively regulated with lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications. However, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Can Acid Indigestion Be Cured?

Acid indigestion can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. However, long-term management may be necessary in some cases where there is an underlying cause, like peptic ulcer or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It's important to seek advice from a healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis and proper treatment.

References:

 

Efficacy and Safety of a Natural Remedy for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Double-Blinded Randomized-Controlled Study

Umberto Alecci, 1 Francesco Bonina, 2 Andrea Bonina, 3 Luisa Rizza, 3 Santi Inferrera, 1 Carmen Mannucci, 4 and Gioacchino Calapai

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5080480/

 Vakil N., van Zanten S. V., Kahrilas P., et al. The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a global evidence-based consensus. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2006;101(8):1900–1920. doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2006.00630.x. [PubMed]