Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a term used for a set of symptoms caused by excess production of acid by the gastric glands (glands located in different regions of your stomach that secrete juices and mucous) of your stomach. 

Your stomach normally secretes hydrochloric acid which is required for the breakdown and digestion of the food you eat. If your stomach produces more hydrochloric acid, the excess acid can sometimes travel back up to the esophagus [muscular tube connecting the throat (pharynx) with the stomach)] and cause a burning sensation, resulting in discomfort. 

The innermost layer of your stomach wall is called gastric mucosa. This is covered by a thick layer of mucus (a slimy protective substance that is produced by many lining tissues in your body). Gastric mucous serves two purposes: 

  • The lubrication of food in order to facilitate movement within your stomach.
  • The formation of a protective layer over your stomach cavity to fight infections.

Acidity is a common stomach disorder that can affect children, young adults, and older people. Most often, acidity is a result of a sedentary (inactive) and stressful lifestyle. 

Other factors that can cause acidity are: erratic or irregular eating habits, not eating meals at the same time every day, following fad diets (popular or trending diets sold basically as weight loss programs), taking stress, and excessive smoking and alcohol consumption. It can also be triggered by eating stale, oily, and spicy foods. 

Certain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) also predispose certain individuals to gastric acidity. NSAIDs are medicines that are widely used to relieve pain, and reduce inflammation and fever.

Common symptoms of acidity include a burning sensation after eating a meal, especially a heavy meal filled with fatty foods. Sour belching (frequent burping) is also commonly seen. You may also have constipation and indigestion as a result of acidity. 

The quickest way to get relief from acidity is through over-the-counter (OTC) medications known as antacids (a class of medicines that neutralize the acid in your stomach). 

However, long term use of these antacids can disturb the pH of the digestive tract. The pH of your mouth, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach is critical to your digestion. 

Eating the right foods can help neutralize acid contents in your stomach. 

Here are 10 superfoods to help you tackle acidity at home:

1. Buttermilk

Buttermilk, a fermented dairy drink, is regularly consumed as a cooling drink in the summer by many people, especially after meals. Ever wondered why? Buttermilk contains lactic acid (an organic acid that improves your digestion) which helps to neutralize the acidity or acid reflux in your stomach. It also cools your stomach and soothes any irritation caused to the gastrointestinal tract or digestive tract. You can include a glass of buttermilk after or during the meals to avoid acidity.

2. Cinnamon

While cinnamon is best known as a flavourful ingredient, its efficacy extends far beyond the kitchen. What most people don't know is that it also acts as a natural antacid. 

Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals. Its anti inflammatory properties can help heal any infections of the digestive tract. You can also boil and strain cinnamon powder to make an aromatic tea which can aid in getting relief from acidity.

3. Tulsi (Basil) 

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is popular for its medicinal properties and also plays a role in managing acidity. It helps stimulate your stomach to produce more mucous, which reduces the effect of gastric acids in your digestive tract and also helps in preventing stomach ulcers (painful sores in the lining of the stomach). Chewing on five to six tulsi leaves when you suffer from acidity, is a great way to beat the discomfort.

4. Jeera (Cumin Seeds)

Jeera or cumin seeds is another spice widely used in Indian cuisines. It has properties that stimulate the production of saliva (an extracellular fluid produced in your mouth that facilitates chewing) which helps in better digestion, improves metabolism (sum total of all chemical reactions that release energy in your body), and relieves gas and other gastric troubles. It is also known as a great acid neutralizer. 

You can chew a few seeds of jeera to relieve acidity or boil it in water and drink the solution when it has cooled down. It can be consumed as a tea anytime during the day.

5. Pudina (Mint Leaves)

Mint leaves, commonly used as a culinary ingredient, have certain effective properties which can help in lowering the acid content of your stomach and result in improved digestion. It also has a cooling effect which helps to reduce the pain and burning associated with acid reflux. 

Chew a couple of mint leaves after a heavy meal or add it to your glass of buttermilk for better taste and results.

Note that mint leaves can trigger or cause acidity in a few individuals. If your symptoms do not get better or get worse after eating mint leaves, remember to avoid resorting to this remedy the next time.

6. Ajwain (Carom Seeds)

Carom seeds, commonly known as ajwain in India, contain high levels of thymol. Thymol helps in the release of gastric juices from the stomach, thereby accelerating the process of digestion and preventing regurgitation (the action of bringing swallowed food or acid up again to your mouth).

Chew a spoonful of raw ajwain seeds every day in the morning to boost your digestion. Maintain a gap of half an hour between eating ajwain and having your breakfast. 

7. Ginger

Ginger may relieve gastrointestinal irritation. This root is known to improve digestion, and aid better absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients in your stomach. 

It also protects your stomach against ulcers by promoting mucous secretion and reducing the effect of the acid on your stomach. It can be consumed raw or added to tea, soups, and green tea.

8. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Amla is very effective in neutralizing stomach acids. It is a powerhouse of vitamin C. Having high amounts of vitamin C helps in healing the injured lining of your stomach and the esophagus. Have one teaspoon of amla powder twice a day to help keep acidity at bay.

9. Elaichi (Cardamom)

Ever wondered why elaichi is a staple addition to mouth fresheners after meals? Well, that is because elaichi is carminative in nature and is known to stimulate digestion. 

It curbs the inflammation of your stomach lining and helps soothe heartburns. It also soothes the mucous membrane, allowing it to function better, thereby relieving the symptoms of acidity. 

Crush two pods of cardamom (with or without the skin), boil the powder in water, and drink the cooled juice for instant relief from acidity.

10. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Many people mistakenly believe all acid reflux and indigestion is caused by an overproduction of acid. The latest research shows it's actually the opposite for many people: there is too little acid produced to adequately digest the food eaten. 

Apple cider vinegar, or cider vinegar, is a vinegar made from fermented apple juice and used in salad dressings, food preservatives, and chutneys (flavored sauce of Indian cuisine which is made from vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices). 

ACV helps balance your stomach pH by neutralizing stomach acid. Taking a spoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water every day might improve the acid content of your stomach and result in better digestion.

While this is a good list to keep in mind, your reactions to individual foods can vary. It is best to look out for specific food or food habits that trigger acidity. 

Consult your general physician in case you have repeated episodes of acidity. Remember to stay physically active, eat a healthy and balanced diet, rest well and stress less to reduce bouts of acidity.


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.