Here's what you should do if you suffer from acidity
Scientifically called Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acidity is a common digestive issue, that occurs when the acid in the stomach jumps back into the food pipe and you feel a burning sensation or pain in your chest area. It is generally caused due to bad eating habits such as long gaps between meals, oily food, smoking, etc. Here's how you can deal with acidity.
Basil
Basil or Tulsi leaves have great soothing properties, and can help relieve the acidity. It is an effective remedy to cure heat burn, as it stimulates the stomach to produce more mucus in inner linings, thereby preventing the acid to hit the stomach walls. You can chew a couple of basil leaves on an empty stomach or sip some basil tea, to avoid acidity.
Banana
Bananas are extremely helpful for digestion, owing to their high fiber content. Rich in potassium, magnesium, and various essential vitamins, bananas are a great antidote for excess acid production in stomach, which further helps in curbing mid/severe acidity. We suggest you to start your day with two bananas to keep your tummy full. They also keep the pH levels of your body in check.
Buttermilk
Additionally, cold buttermilk can do wonders to your stomach and digestive health. We say so because it contains lactic acid that neutralizes the acid in the stomach. So, every time you end up eating a heavy or spicy meal, grab a glassful of buttermilk to give relief to your stomach and reduce chances of acidity and other digestive issues.
Fennel seeds
It is often advised to munch on some fennel seeds or saunf after your meals, as it is known to boost digestion. It contains anethole, a compound that can soothe your stomach, and prevent digestive issues like bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. You can take a spoonful of them after every meal, or mix in a cupful of water to drink.
But since prevention is better than cure, follow these tips
Here are some dos and don'ts to avoid acidity: 1) Don't take long gaps between your meals. Eat some healthy snacks in between. 2) Don't sleep right after having a meal, especially a heavy one. 3) Drink hot beverages in moderation. 4) Do not wear tight clothes. 5) Regularly perform Yoga and other exercises to keep your digestive system healthy. 6) Quit smoking.