In the normal body process, acid is secreted to aid in the digestion process because it is instrumental in the breaking down of the food particles in the digestive system process. However, hyperacidity happens when there is an excessive acid formation of acid in the stomach that it irritates the gastrointestinal lining. It is usually characterized by a burning sensation which could travel back up into the esophagus which becomes heartburn or a feeling of being frequently hungry or being bloated. Gas formation in the stomach brings stomach upsets and discomfort.
Among the usual causes of hyperacidity is excessive intake of oil-rich and very spicy or alcohol intake and smoking. Poor eating habits which includes the unusual habit of not chewing food properly or eating in a rush manner or poor diet choices such as excessive red meat and lack of fiber is also one of the major reasons of the onset of this disorder. Some other causes are unhealthy sleeping habits, pregnancy in which the growing baby might be exerting effort on the digestive track or obesity wherein the fat deposits causes the same pressure as that of the baby inside the womb. A major cause of hyperacidity also at this time is the stress and strain that we are challenged in our daily routines. Some medicines also stimulate the production of stomach acids thus side effects include hyperacidity.
If hyperacidity is not treated properly, it may lead to more serious related problems which includes haemorrhoids or piles or fistula, inability to consume the required food for balanced diet and blood leakage through the stool. Modern medicine treat hyperacidity with antacids or digestion stimulants. However, these drugs interfere with the proper digestive system too thus the body is in danger of other serious side effects. Luckily, there are herbal remedies for hyperacidity which acts very mildly and have the ability to decrease the acidity and gas problems in the stomach reducing the irritation and discomfort.
Herbal Remedies:
- Carrot and Cabbage juice – Cabbage being a fibrous vegetable has the ability to cleanse the colon and thus is considered good for constipation. On the other hand, the vitamins in carrots promote the proper functioning of the digestive system and reduces the amount of acids to regular levels. Make a juice out of 200 grams of each vegetable in 2 cups of water. Drink the concoction at least 30 minutes before each meal twice a day to generate desired results.
- Peppermint and Honey – Mixture of honey and peppermint becomes an effective antacid without the side effects of manufactured drugs. It also promotes digestion and prevent constipation by providing a soothing sensation to bowel movement.
- Ginger, Garlic and Common Salt – Making a paste from these three ingredients is said to be the best herbal remedy to dispense of gas problems. The paste, like the other herbal remedies decreases the acidity in the stomach and promotes the proper digestion.
Going herbal is always a better alternative especially in the treatment of hyperacidity as they have no known side effects, aside from the offering an effective remedy for related digestive problems.