Hyperacidity, also known as “acid dyspepsia” and pitta prakriti or amlapitta as per Ayurvedic science, is one of the commonest medical conditions seen in people of all age groups. 

Is Hyperacidity a Symptom or Disease? 

It is a condition in which the body secretes excessive amounts of acid (hydrochloric acid), which is a digestive juice that aids in the breakdown of food particles in the stomach. 

Due to this excessive acid secretion, sometimes, the stomach acid flows back into your oesophagus (food pipe leading from your mouth to stomach). This acid reflux leads to a condition known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). 

Causes of Hyperacidity 


  • Eating habits: Consumption of spicy, oily, salty, citrus, fried, and processed foods increases your chances of developing hyperacidity. People who skip their meals or have erratic meal timings are prone to developing these symptoms over time.

  • Stress and anxiety: Stress and lack of sleep can deplete the production of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which normally protect the stomach from the effects of acid.

  • Medications: Prolonged use of certain medications such as Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, iron and potassium supplements, etc., can irritate the stomach and oesophagus, thereby, causing heartburn/chest pain.

  • Lifestyle habits: Tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption can facilitate acid reflux by the lower oesophageal sphincter (a valve between your oesophagus and stomach) pressure.

Signs And Symptoms 

  • Burning sensation in your chest (heartburn or retrosternal burning). 

  • Gnawing or burning stomach pain.

  • Nausea or vomiting.

  • Frequent indigestion and bloating.

  • Belching.

  • No taste or metallic taste on the tongue.

  • Foul-smelling loose stools.

  • Dizziness and fatigue.

  • Loss of appetite.

When do These Symptoms Occur?

  • After eating a big meal or consumption of coffee/alcohol.

  • Chest pain or heartburn, more common when lying down, especially on your back.

  • When bending over or lifting an object.

  • After a bout of binge eating right before bedtime.

Ways to Control Hyperacidity


1. Change your eating habits: Make sure to fix particular meal timings. 

Breakfast must be healthy as well as heavy, and dinner should be light (remember: breakfast +++, lunch ++, dinner +). 

Avoid long gaps between meals. Avoid late-night eating, especially junk or street foods. Maintain an upright position after eating meals.

2. Stay well-hydrated: Drink lots of water. You can also add a glass of warm water after every meal.

3. Get enough sleep: Getting a good night’s sleep (approximately 7 to 8 hrs) can help your digestive system and your overall health and make you perform better in everyday life. 

Lack of sleep can add to the stress and in turn increase acidity levels.

4. Add ghee to your diet: Homemade ghee is the best way to reduce pitta from the body as well as to aid digestion, according to Ayurveda. You should also know that homemade pure ghee does not increase your cholesterol.

5. Eat fruits and nuts: Add about 25g of raisins to your diet before you hit the sack. It can either be eaten directly or you can soak it for 5 hours before consumption. This reduces pitta and excessive heat in your body.

Ayurveda recommends detoxification once a year. In such conditions, Virechan therapy is recommended in most cases (Virechan - flushes out excessive bile and toxins from your digestive tract).


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.

Dr.Niraj Gujarathi

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