Common Causes of Acidity and How to Prevent It
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can occasionally be challenging. One prevalent health issue that often appears due to our modern lifestyle is acidity. Acidity, normally referred to as acid reflux or heartburn, can cause discomfort and disrupt daily routines. However, with a few lifestyle changes and proactive steps, you can effectively prevent and manage acidity. In this blog post, the best gastroenterology clinic in Pune, Maharashtra, Kaizen Gastro Care & his team will explore the common causes of acidity and provide useful tips on how to prevent it.
Understanding Acidity:
Acidity occurs when the stomach’s digestive juices flow back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. This uneasy feeling is often referred to as heartburn due to its location in the chest area. While periodic acidity is fairly common and usually harmless, chronic or intense acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Common Causes of Acidity:
- Dietary Habits : One of the primary contributors to acidity is an improper diet. Consuming spicy, fried, and fatty foods, along with excessive caffeine and carbonated beverages, can trigger acid reflux. Further, large meals and late-night eating can put extra strain on the stomach, leading to acidity.
- Overeating : Gorging on large feeds puts strain on the stomach and LES, increasing the chance of acid reflux. Instead of consuming three large meals a day, opt for smaller, more frequent meals to help digestion and control excessive stomach pressure.
- Obesity : Holding excess weight, especially around the abdominal area, can improve abdominal pressure. This pressure can push stomach contents back into the esophagus, leading to acidity.
- Lifestyle Choices : Smoking and consuming alcohol can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that serves as a barrier between the abdomen and the esophagus. When the LES is weakened, stomach acids can flow back up more easily, causing acidity.
- Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress and anxiety can disrupt the regular digestive process, leading to improved acid production and heightened sensitivity to acid reflux symptoms.
- Pregnancy : Hormonal changes and the growing uterus during pregnancy can put pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. This is an ordinary issue for many pregnant women.
- Certain Foods : Some foods are naturally acidic or can relax the LES, causing acid reflux more likely. These include citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, and onions.
- Medications : Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain antibiotics, and blood pressure medications, can relax the LES and contribute to acid reflux. If you suspect your medicine is causing acidity, consult your healthcare provider for potential options.
Preventing Acidity - Kaizen Gastro Care's Tips:
- Adopt a Balanced Diet : Focus on consuming a well-rounded diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid or limit spicy, fried, and fatty foods, as well as caffeine and carbonated beverages. Less, more frequent meals can also aid prevent acidity.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight : If you are overweight, consider assuming a healthier lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and a balanced diet. Shedding excess weight can relieve pressure on the stomach and lower the risk of acidity.
- Practice Mindful Eating : Pay awareness to what you eat and how you eat. Avoid eating large meals right before bedtime, and give yourself at least two to three hours between your last meal and sleep.
- Stay Hydrated : Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can benefit dilute stomach acid and control excessive acid production. However, avoid drinking large amounts of water during meals to prevent overfilling the stomach.
- Limit Alcohol and Smoking : If you smoke, consider quitting, as it can weaken the LES. Restraint is key when it comes to alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking can exacerbate acidity.
- Manage Stress : Engage in stress-reducing workouts such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity. Managing stress can have a positive impact on your digestive health.
- Elevate Your Head : If you encounter nighttime acid reflux, elevate the head of your bed by a few inches. This slight elevation can aid prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
- Wear Loose Clothing : Tight-fitting clothing, specifically around the waist, can put pressure on the stomach and contribute to acid reflux. Opt for loose-fitting attire, specifically after meals.
- Sleep on Your Left Side : If nighttime acid reflux is an issue, try sleeping on your left side. This position can assist keep the stomach below the esophagus, decreasing the likelihood of acid reflux.
Conclusion:
Acidity is a common problem that can significantly impact your quality of life if left unmanaged. By understanding the common causes of acidity and executing the preventive measures shared by Kaizen Gastro Care, you can take control of your digestive health. Remember that every individual is special, so it may take some trial and error to find the proper combination of lifestyle changes that work best for you. If you experience chronic or intense acid reflux, it’s advisable to consult with acidity specialists in Pune, Maharashtra, for personalized guidance and treatment options. With a proactive approach, you can minimize the occurrence of acidity and enjoy a more comfortable and resonant life.