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Foods That May Trigger Acidity: Drop The Culprits

We all have experienced that feeling too well   – right after eating a heavy meal; a fiery sensation in the lower chest often followed by a sour taste of acid reflux that causes discomfort. Well, that’s what heartburn does to you after eating specific food items.  

Acidity is a common condition caused due to the reflux of food and acid from the stomach into the food pipe called the oesophagus. If you have been experiencing more frequent heartburn, it is time you throw the culprits away and instead choose alkalising food items to balance out the acid in your stomach.  

What causes heartburn and acid reflux?

In an average person, the oesophagal sphincter (a muscular band that lets food pass into the stomach and then contracts to prevent backflow into the oesophagus) protects the oesophagus from stomach acid. However, if the sphincter relaxes or weakens, the stomach contents may push upward and cause acid reflux.

Acidity and heartburn are most frequently reported after having a meal. Food is one of the major factors aggravating acidity as it stimulates the production of stomach acid.  

A survey conducted by the National Heartburn Alliance (NHBA) revealed that 92% of frequent

heartburn sufferers report food as the primary cause of their digestive discomfort.

Certain food items can exacerbate acidity and heartburn. Such food items relax the oesophagal sphincter and delay the overall digestion process. This allows the food to remain in the stomach for a longer duration and increase the risk of reflux and heartburn.

Food that can cause acidity and heartburn

Acidity & heartburn

The quantity and the timing of the meal are also important as a heavy meal eaten within 2-3 hours before bedtime or having a meal with alcohol increases the risk of acid reflux at night.

Symptoms of Food-induced acidity

Did you know eating watery fruits can help dilute the acid in your stomach? This can be a game-changer for those struggling to manage acidity symptoms. Examples of watery fruits include celery, cucumber, lettuce and watermelon.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

There are, however, certain foods that help reduce acid reflux.

High-fibre food items:

Alkaline food items:

Watery food items:  

Also Read: Acidity Problems? 14 Home Remedies That Can Help

Certain home remedies may also help ease heartburn symptoms:

Basil leaves have soothing and carminative properties that can provide instant relief from acidity.  

Ginger is a great digestive aid. It reduces irritation in the stomach due to its alkaline nature and anti-inflammatory properties.  

Lactic acid present in buttermilk neutralises the stomach acid and alleviates acid reflux and heartburn.  

Coconut water stimulates the production of mucus in the stomach, thereby protecting the stomach lining from the harmful effects of excessive acid production. Being rich in fibre, it aids digestion and prevents the re-occurrence of acidity.

Although certain home remedies can reduce heartburn and acid reflux, they cannot help in case of frequent and severe acidity. Certain over the counter and prescribed medicines can come to the rescue in such cases please consult a doctor for right diagnosis and treatment.

Contrary to popular belief, milk may not help you with heartburn or acid reflux. The fat present in whole milk or full-fat milk can worsen acid reflux. However, non-fat milk may help you neutralise the acid and give relief to heartburn symptoms.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Also Read: Omee Capsule

One of the best remedies for treating food-induced acidity is to avoid food items that trigger acid reflux and heartburn. Eating a healthy and holistic diet has helped many to overcome the problem of acidity and heartburn. In case acidity strikes frequently, you should visit a doctor for better supervision.  

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.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Heartburn And Acidity – The Downside And Side Effects Of Painkillers!

Are you amongst those who pop painkillers quite often? Well, you may not be aware, but painkillers can end up causing heartburn and damage to your stomach.    

Heartburn and acid reflux occurs when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the food pipe carrying food from your mouth to the stomach, called the oesophagus. In some people, the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that helps keep food in the stomach after you swallow, can become weakened, allowing food and stomach acid to travel back toward the mouth. This causes acid reflux and heartburn.

Although food and lifestyle are believed to be the main culprits, certain medications you take, viz., painkillers can also cause heartburn and acidity.

Did you know?

Most of the painkillers, like aspirin and ibuprofen, used to treat mild-to-moderate pain belong to the drug class called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Although they help alleviate pain, they can cause acidity and ulcers in the stomach.

A 2008 study found that 27% of individuals using NSAIDs reported heartburn, acid regurgitation or both compared to only 19% in non-users.  

I have always cautioned my patients that the risk of stomach and bowel (gastrointestinal) problems can be reduced by taking the lowest possible dose of painkillers, and only taking them for as long as necessary, also taking painkillers along with the medications to protect your stomach (antacids) helps in most of the patients.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen can cause acidity and heartburn by

acidity & heartburn

NSAIDs category of painkillers can increase the risk of heartburn and acid regurgitation by approximately 60%.

The symptoms of stomach problems after taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) include –

Most common side effects of NSAIDs affect the stomach. They range from minor problems like indigestion and stomach ache to more serious problems like gastritis, ulcers and bleeding in the stomach or bowel. They also increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes, particularly in people who have already had one. In people who have decreased kidney function, taking NSAIDs can increase the risk of acute kidney failure. It is especially important for them to avoid taking too high a dose.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Do not consume painkillers on an empty stomach

Although, paracetamol can safely be taken on an empty stomach; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, should be taken with or after food or a glass of milk.  

Food helps reduce irritation of the stomach lining, which in turn helps reduce the risk of indigestion, heartburn, pain and nausea.

Managing heartburn while taking painkillers

In patients with frequent painkiller use, acidity, heartburn and stomach ulcers can pose a grave problem. Various ways to alleviate the symptoms include:

  Painkillers should be taken only in quantity and time intervals as prescribed by the doctor. This can help reduce the risk of ulcers and heartburn.  

Food helps reduce irritation of the stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion, heartburn and stomach pain.

Mucilage acts as a natural coat that protects the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.

Consume mucilage rich foods like liquorice root tea, Aloe Vera juice.  

Probiotics contain live bacteria and yeasts that are vital for good gut health. They can reduce stomach injury caused by painkillers.

As the wise saying goes, ‘One must embrace painkillers strictly as prescribed, seeking guidance from a trusted doctor to uncover potential remedies for side effects such as heartburn and gastritis can help. Remember, recklessly indulging in painkillers without proper medical guidance can be harmful.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Also Read: Pantoprazole Foods to Avoid

Also Read: Omee Uses

If you experience chronic heartburn and acidity from your medication, consult your physician so that he can suggest ways to cure heartburn symptoms.

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.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Get Rid Of Acidity And Heartburn By Changing Your Lifestyle

Acidity is more common than you think! About 7.6% of Indians report heartburn and/or regurgitation at least once a week.

When we eat food, it goes through the oesophagus and into the stomach. A circular muscle called the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) exists between the oesophagus and the stomach that relaxes to allow food into the stomach and then closes (contracts) to prevent backflow into the oesophagus.

The stomach secretes acid to assist food breakdown during digestion. Excess production of acid by the stomach glands in some cases leads to a condition called acidity. For some people, the sphincter weakens or relaxes abnormally allowing the stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus, causing acid reflux and heartburn.

Acid reflux can sometimes occur even in healthy people. It is usually for a shorter period without any significant symptoms.  

Causes of Acidity and Heartburn

Acidity and heartburn are primarily caused by improper dietary habits and poor lifestyle choices. Major causes of acidity and heartburn include:

stress & anxiety

Frequent heartburn (several times a week) may be a symptom of a long-term condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is critical to treat frequent heartburn as untreated chronic acidity can lead to inflammation and narrowing of the oesophagus, precancerous changes, and cancer of the oesophagus.

Symptoms of Acid reflux and heartburn include-

man coughing

Managing Heartburn and Acidity

The most important step in managing acidity and heartburn is to identify food items that trigger heartburn and reduce or stop the intake of those food items. Do not self-diagnose or take medications without proper consultation. 

Also Read: Pantoprazole Foods to Avoid

Certain home remedies can also help alleviate heartburn symptoms:

Basil leaves have soothing and carminative properties that can provide instant relief from acidity.  

Lactic acid present in buttermilk neutralises the stomach acid and alleviates acid reflux and heartburn.  

Cumin seeds are a great acid neutraliser, and they aid digestion and relieve stomach pain.  

Coconut water stimulates the production of mucus in the stomach, thereby protecting the stomach lining from the harmful effects of excessive acid production. Being rich in fibre, it aids digestion and prevents the recurrence of acidity.

Also Read: Dietary Tips: Foods To Avoid With Acid Reflux

If heartburn symptoms continue despite diet and lifestyle modifications, consider taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication.

Medicines to manage heartburn and acidity

Medicines for managing heartburn include antacids, alginates, histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2-receptor antagonists) and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Antacids neutralise the acid in the stomach, providing fast, short-term relief.  

Alginates are extracted from algae and are used with antacids to prevent acid reflux. Alginates form a raft that sits on the surface of the stomach contents, preventing reflux.  

The H2 receptor antagonists reduce stomach acid secretion.

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) block acid by reducing the production of gastric acid, allowing time for damaged oesophageal tissue to heal.  

Amongst several PPIs available like Omeprazole (know more), Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole and Esomeprazole, Omeprazole is the one having highest published evidence and studies regarding its better safety. All the PPIs have similar efficacy; however, Omeprazole due to its better safety and highest affordability, is the most used PPI globally with more than 40% prescription share worldwide.

These medicines are most helpful for people who have heartburn often, i.e., more than two days of a week. In case of severe acidity, the patient may have to undergo surgery (vagotomy) to curb the acid production in the stomach.  

When acidity and heartburn hits, many home remedies, over the counter treatments, and lifestyle changes may provide relief. If you experience heartburn or acidity more than twice or thrice a week, talk to your doctor. In some cases, they might suggest medication or other treatments.

Also Read: Tab Omee

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.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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