Foods to Avoid in Chronic Acidity

Introduction:

Acidity is one of the common conditions that are faced by the population throughout the globe. The quality of life can be impacted by this condition. Stomach glands produce an acid content to digest food; in this condition, stomach acid contents are excessively produced. This can cause indigestion, gastric inflammation, and acid reflux. The affected patients often feel a burning sensation referred to as heart burns. They are caused due to various factors, but the primary factor leading to chronic acidity is bad eating habits. It is recommended to avoid certain foods during this condition. The focus of this article will be on the foods that should be avoided in cases of chronic acidity.

What Are the General Factors That Cause Chronic Acidity?

Unhealthy eating habits are the primary cause of acidity. Other factors leading to this condition are mentioned below.

• Presence of other gastrointestinal disorders such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), stomach ulcers, and tumors.

• Extreme stress.

• Smoking habits.

• Lack of physical activity.

• Alcohol consumption.

• Obesity.

• Pregnancy.

• Side effects of some medications, such as anti-depressants and antibiotics.

What Are the Foods to Avoid in Chronic Acidity?

Even though there is a lack of research and studies regarding eliminating certain foods in such conditions, some research experts suggest avoiding the foods mentioned below. These foods tend to trigger or aggravate the symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion.

1. Beverages: Acidic beverages have been shown to worsen the symptoms of chronic acidity, such as acidic reflux, by decreasing the physiological pH of the stomach contents. Examples of such liquids are caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.

• It is strictly recommended to avoid carbonated drinks in patients with chronic acidity. Carbonated beverages have infused carbon dioxide gas under pressure. Sodium and other minerals are also added to improve the taste. When consumed, they produce a prickly sensation that is shown to be enjoyable but at the same time irritable. They are acidic with a pH of three to four. Often, avoiding carbonated beverages from the diet have shown to reduce the symptoms of acidity.

• Caffeine is a naturally occurring substance and a stimulant. They are found in various foods such as coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, etc. They stimulate the central nervous system and help one stay active and avoid tiredness. The effects of caffeine on acidity are still debatable, with some researchers suggesting that caffeine tends to aggravate the symptoms of chronic acidity, whereas some suggest not. However, it is better is eliminate caffeine from the diet when they seem to trigger the symptoms of acidity.

• Alcohol is one of the common causes of death around the globe and one of the common causes of GERD. They have been shown to increase acidity symptoms, and consuming them can damage the mucosal layer of the stomach and esophagus (food pipe). People with a chronic history of alcohol consumption are recommended to eliminate alcohol consumption or to have them in moderation.

2. High-Fat Meals: Acid reflux is one of the common symptoms of acidity. Fatty foods and highly processed meals tend to put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (valve present at the end of the esophagus that prevents the backflow of stomach contents), this can increase the backflow of acid contents from the stomach, causing heartburns. Foods that are high in fat take longer for digestion and hence can increase the acid production in the stomach, which in turn irritates the digestive tract. Fatty foods can relax this esophageal sphincter. Some examples of foods that are high in fat content are mentioned below.

• Greasier and oily foods.

• Full-fat dairy products.

• Potato chips.

• Ice cream.

• Heavy cream.

• Fatty and fried meats.

• Bacon.

• French fries.

3. Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are one of the important parts of a balanced diet. However, some fruits and vegetables tend to trigger the symptoms of chronic acidity. Certain fruits and vegetables have high acid contents that aggravate the symptoms of acidity.

• Some citrus fruits like limes, lemons, and oranges are highly acidic and can be the stem reason for excessive acid content in the stomach. These fruits can relax the lower esophageal sphincter causing increased acid reflux. It is recommended to avoid the intake of citrus fruits during chronic acidity to prevent the symptoms.

• Vegetables like tomatoes are rich in citric acids, and malic acid tends to increase the symptoms like heartburn.

4. Spicy Foods: Foods that are too spicy or foods containing pepper, paprika, or vinegar comprise a chemical compound named capsicin. This chemical compound can irritate the digestive tract, especially the esophagus, and increase the symptoms of acid reflux. Recent studies suggest lower acidity incidence in people who consumed less spicy foods. It is recommended to eliminate spicy foods during chronic acidity.

5. Chocolates: Chocolates that contain cocoa powder are acidic. Studies have indicated that the cocoa content in chocolate can lead to the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, resulting in the reflux of stomach acid contents. Other components of chocolates, such as theobromine and caffeine, can also aggravate the symptoms of chronic acidity.

What Are the Recommended Lifestyle Modifications During Chronic Acidity?

In addition to the dietary recommendations, some recommended lifestyle changes to prevent the symptoms of chronic acidity are mentioned below.

• Opting for smaller and more frequent meals instead of a few large meals.

• Avoid lying down after a meal to prevent the backflow of stomach acid contents.

• Studies show an association between smoking and increased stomach acid production, impairing the lower esophageal sphincter. It is necessary to quit smoking in chronic acidity.

• It is recommended to minimize and avoid stress.

• It is advised to chew the food thoroughly before swallowing.

• Maintaining a healthy weight and the ideal body mass index is recommended.

• It is advised to avoid wearing tight clothes to prevent pressure over the abdomen region.

• One should sleep on time and maintain a good sleeping pattern.

• It is recommended to eat food at least three hours before sleeping.

• Have plenty of fluids.

Conclusion:

Chronic acidity is a digestive condition caused by increased acid production in the stomach, which irritates the digestive tract causing acid reflux and heartburn. Certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of acidity. It is recommended to follow the above mentioned dietary recommendations and a healthy lifestyle to alleviate the symptoms of chronic acidity. A few lifestyle modifications along with a healthy and balanced diet can help in the long run.