Acidity occurs due to the stomach producing too much acid, which then flows back up into the food pipe. This causes a burning sensation and pain, primarily in the lower chest area.
What Causes Acidity?
According to nutritionists, poor food habits and an unhealthy lifestyle are the main reasons why people experience acidity. This condition, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, arises from an imbalance in the digestive system.
Common Contributing Factors:
Here's a breakdown of factors contributing to excess acid production:
- Poor Food Choices: Consuming large meals, particularly those high in fat or spice, can overstimulate acid production in the stomach.
- Unhealthy Lifestyle: Stress, lack of exercise, and being overweight can disrupt normal digestion and lead to increased acidity.
- Dietary Triggers: Specific foods and beverages, like caffeine, alcohol, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate, are known to aggravate acidity for some individuals.
- Eating Habits: Eating too quickly, lying down immediately after meals, and irregular eating patterns can also play a role in causing acidity.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Acidity:
Making simple adjustments to your lifestyle can significantly reduce the chances of experiencing acidity.
- Eat Smaller Meals: Avoid large meals, instead, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Eat Slowly: Take your time while eating and chew food thoroughly to aid digestion.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and limit the intake of foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux for you.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing weight can reduce pressure on the stomach and lessen the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise aids digestion and promotes overall gut health.
- Don't Lie Down After Meals: Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down.
- Manage Stress: Implement stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Excessive Acid Production | The main cause; when the stomach produces more acid than normal. |
| Poor Food Habits | Irregular eating patterns, eating too much, or consuming foods that trigger acid reflux |
| Unhealthy Lifestyle | Stress, lack of exercise, and being overweight disrupt digestion. |
| Food/Drink Triggers | Specific items like caffeine, alcohol, citrus, and tomatoes that can increase acid production. |
Understanding the Process
Acidity arises when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring at the entrance of the stomach, doesn't close properly. This allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, causing inflammation and discomfort. The excess acid produced by the stomach exacerbates this issue.
