Acid reflux, commonly known as acidity, is a common digestive problem that can be uncomfortable and distressing. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation and other symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. While occasional acidity is normal, chronic acidity can lead to more severe health issues. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent acidity and keep your digestive system in check. In this blog, we’ll explore ten active and effective tips to help you prevent acidity and maintain a healthy digestive system as suggested by health professionals at Vedam gastro hospital, one of the best gastro hospitals in Surat.

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet is crucial for preventing acidity. Avoid spicy, fatty, and fried foods, as they can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and allow stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. Opt for lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help prevent acidity by reducing pressure on the LES.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for proper digestion and can help prevent acidity. Water dilutes stomach acid, making it less likely to irritate the oesophagus. It’s advisable to consume water between meals, rather than during, as excessive fluids during meals can dilute stomach acid too much, which may lead to poor digestion.

3. Avoid Trigger Foods: Acidity, or acid reflux, can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. One effective way to manage this digestive issue as explained by one of the best stomach specialists in Surat is by avoiding trigger foods. Some common trigger foods to steer clear of include spicy dishes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. Peppery foods can irritate the oesophagus, while citrus fruits, tomatoes, and onions can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. Garlic can increase the production of stomach acid, and coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can also relax the LES, promoting acid reflux.

4. Elevate the Head of Your Bed: If you experience acidity at night, try elevating the head of your bed by 6–8 inches. This slight incline can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus while you sleep. You can also use extra pillows to prop yourself up, but raising the entire bed is a more effective option.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of acidity. Extra weight puts pressure on your abdomen, which can push stomach acid into the oesophagus. If you are overweight, losing even a modest amount of weight can help reduce acidity symptoms and improve overall health.

6. Don’t Lie Down Right After Eating: It’s important to wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. This allows your stomach to digest food and reduces the likelihood of acid flowing back into the oesophagus. If you need to rest or nap, try sitting up in a chair or propping yourself up with pillows.

7. Quit Smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of various health issues but also contributes to acidity. Smoking relaxes the LES and promotes acid reflux. Quitting smoking is not only beneficial for your overall health but can also significantly reduce acidity symptoms as advised by our expert at Vedam gastro hospital, one of the best gastro hospitals in Surat.

8. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Tight belts, waistbands, and clothing can put pressure on your abdomen and exacerbate acidity. Opt for loose-fitting clothes that don’t constrict your waist. This will reduce pressure on your stomach and lower the chances of acid reflux.

9. Manage Stress: Stress is often a trigger for digestive issues, including acidity. High-stress levels can lead to poor eating habits and can disrupt the normal functioning of your digestive system. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies you enjoy to help manage and reduce stress.

10. Use Antacids and Medications: In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be enough to prevent acidity. If you continue to experience frequent or severe acidity, consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend antacids or prescription medications that can help reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice and take medications as prescribed.

Our team of best stomach specialists in Surat at Vedam gastro hospital, suggest that preventing acidity involves making a few lifestyle changes and adopting healthy habits. By maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding trigger foods, you can reduce the risk of acid reflux. Elevating the head of your bed, maintaining a healthy weight, and refraining from lying down right after eating are additional measures to consider. Smoking cessation, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and stress management can all contribute to a healthier digestive system. If necessary, antacids and medications can provide relief. By following these ten active tips, you can significantly reduce the discomfort and inconvenience of acidity and enjoy a healthier, happier life.