Dr. Rajkumar Singh
Acidity, also known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes inappropriately, allowing acid to escape from the stomach. Acidity originates from the stomach, where gastric glands produce hydrochloric acid (HCl) to aid digestion. When excess acid is produced or the acid escapes into the esophagus, it leads to symptoms of acidity. Causes of Acidity: a. Dietary Factors: Spicy, oily, and fatty foods, excessive consumption of caffeine, tea, or carbonated drinks, overeating or irregular meal timings and excessive alcohol consumption. b. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, stress and anxiety, lack of physical activity, lying down immediately after meals. c. Medical Conditions: GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Hiatal hernia, helicobacter pylori, infection, peptic ulcers. d. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, certain antibiotics and steroids. Symptoms of Acidity: Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), sour or bitter taste in the mouth, regurgitation of food or liquid, bloating and gas, nausea and vomiting, difficulty swallowing and chronic cough or sore throat. Acidity, can often be managed with natural home remedies: a. Ginger: Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate gastrointestinal irritation. Consuming ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to meals may reduce acid reflux symptoms. b. Cold Milk: The calcium in milk can neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn. Drinking a glass of cold, low-fat milk can help soothe the burning sensation. c. Fennel Seeds (Saunf): Chewing fennel seeds after meals can aid digestion and reduce acidity. They contain compounds that soothe the stomach lining and prevent acid formation. d. Bananas: Ripe bananas are low in acidity and can help neutralize stomach acid. Their natural antacid properties make them a good snack for those experiencing acid reflux. e. Chewing Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce heartburn symptoms. f. Apple Cider Vinegar: While anecdotal evidence suggests that diluted apple cider vinegar may help balance stomach acidity, scientific support is limited. If you choose to try this remedy, mix a small amount with water and consume it before meals. Incorporating these remedies, along with maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, we can help manage acidity.
Diet and Precautions
In acidity, recommended diet include: a. Fruits (Non-Citrus): Bananas, apples, papaya and melons (watermelon, muskmelon). b. Vegetables: Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce), carrots, broccoli, cucumber and pumpkin. c. Grains & Carbohydrates: Whole wheat bread, oats, brown rice and quinoa. d. Proteins: Lean meats (chicken, turkey), fish (grilled or steamed), lentils and beans and tofu. e. Dairy (Low-Fat): Skim milk, yogurt (probiotic) and buttermilk. f. Healthy Fats: Almonds (in moderation), olive oil and coconut water. g. Foods to Avoid: Spicy and fried foods, citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, tomatoes), caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea, soda), carbonated drinks, processed and fast foods, excessive dairy (cheese, full-fat milk), chocolate and sweets and alcohol and smoking. Precautions for Managing Acidity: Eat Small, Frequent Meals – Avoid overeating to prevent acid build-up. Avoid Lying Down Immediately After Eating – Wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down. Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water, but avoid drinking large amounts during meals. Chew Food Properly – Helps in better digestion and reduces acid production. Maintain a Healthy Weight – Extra weight can put pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. Wear Loose Clothing – Tight clothing can put pressure on the abdomen, worsening acidity. Manage Stress – Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress-induced acidity. Sleep with Head Elevated – Use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated while sleeping. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol – Both weaken the esophageal muscles, increasing acid reflux.
Advancements and Future Treatment
With growing research in gastroenterology, new advancements are emerging to improve the treatment of acidity, acid reflux, and GERD. Some of the latest developments and potential future treatments include: a. Advanced Medications: Potassium-Competitive Acid Blockers (P-CABs): New class of drugs, such as Vonoprazan, offering faster and longer-lasting acid suppression than traditional Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). More effective in treating H. pylori infections linked to chronic acidity. Improved PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) Next-generation PPIs are being developed for better long-term safety and reduced side effects like nutrient deficiencies and kidney issues. Dual-release PPIs allow extended acid suppression throughout the day. b. Minimally Invasive Procedures: LINX Device (Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation) A small, flexible ring of magnetic beads placed around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to prevent acid reflux while allowing food passage. FDA-approved and gaining popularity as an alternative to surgery. Endoscopic Therapies: Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) – A non-surgical method that tightens the LES using an endoscope, reducing acid reflux. Stretta Therapy – Uses radiofrequency energy to strengthen the LES muscles, reducing acid reflux symptoms. c. AI & Personalized Medicine: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Gastroenterology: AI-powered tools help analyze endoscopic images for faster GERD diagnosis. Predictive models are improving personalized treatment plans based on a patient’s genetics, diet, and lifestyle. Genetic & Microbiome Research: Studies are exploring the gut microbiome’s role in acidity and probiotics-based treatments to restore balance. Personalized treatments based on a patient’s genetic response to PPIs and antacids. d. Future Potential Treatments: Regenerative Medicine: Research is underway to use stem cells to repair damaged esophageal tissues and restore LES function. Bioengineered tissue implants may help severe GERD cases. Natural & Alternative Therapies: Targeted herbal medicines are being explored as safer alternatives to long-term acid suppressants. Nutraceuticals (medical foods & supplements) are being tested to promote gut healing. With ongoing research, the future of acidity treatment looks promising, moving towards less dependence on medications, minimally invasive solutions, and personalized care.
(The writer is a youth motivator and former University Head, Dean, Social Sciences and Dean Students’ Welfare (DSW) of the B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura)