Advice for acidity

Acidity Advice 

Our stomach secretes hydrochloric acid which in turn secretes various digestive enzymes that are essential for the digestion of the food particles. If there is excess secretion of acid in the stomach it leads to a condition called acidity. Eating refined, spicy and rich foods, stress, not eating on time, alcohol consumption and smoking, eating hurriedly and overeating are some of the reasons for acidity.




Certain remedies that can be useful for curing acidity are:-

• Do not skip a meal or leave large gaps between the meals. Avoid spicy and fatty foods. Avoid eating foods just before going to the bed.
  
  
  Chew the food properly.
• Mix 2 teaspoons each of apple cider vinegar and honey to a glass of water and have this before meals.
• Consuming milk is beneficial for acidity.
• Drink coconut water 3 to 4 times a day.
• Take a piece of clove and suck on it slowly to relieve acidity.
• Have tea containing spearmint and liquorice instead of normal tea or coffee or any cola drinks.

Advice for acidity 

You have already identified two causes of acidity: irregular meal timings and fast food. A lifestyle change involving higher consumption of homemade meals eaten at regular timings would go a long way in creating a long-term solution to the problem. If you are unable to cook at home everyday you could try making a larger quantity of food and freezing or refrigerating it for 2-3 days. Various kinds of whole-wheat breads and pastas can be kept in the fridge without adverse effect. Carrying a packed lunch or dinner from home can ensure that you have at least one home-cooked meal a day if you work from outside home. Make sure you include lots of fresh vegetables lightly cooked in oil and a few spices. You may want to go avoid acidity causing foods like cooked tomatoes, dairy products, vinegar, etc.

Make sure you increase your intake of fruit such as melons, sweet apples, sweet mangoes, and strawberries. Eat the fruit at least half an hour before a meal and never immediately after a heavy meal. Wait for at least two hours before you eat fruit once you have eaten a meal.

Another easy and highly effective way to deal with acidity is to drink 1-2 liters of water a day. The water helps in diluting the discomfort that high levels of acidity can lead to.