Given our fast-paced routine and easy delivery of our favourite food, experiencing acidity has become common. Stomach pains, feeling gassy, heartburns are some signs of acid reflux. But why does acidity really occur? Some of the common reasons are skipping timely meals, overeating, consumption of oily foods, dehydration etc. A couple of other reasons include lack of sleep and stress. Experiencing acidity means that our gastric glands that produce acid for digestion end up producing excess acid. This acid then travels to the food pipe or the oesophagus causing heartburns and other symptoms mentioned above.

Now heartburns can be really annoying to deal with. When I get them, I feel like a dragon who’s capable of puking fire any minute. It’s an uneasy feeling and really not good for the oesophagus either. So in a situation like this, the easiest thing would be to pop an antacid. But in a situation where you don’t have an antacid, what do you do? You turn to these trusted home remedies that will ease your pain.

Scroll ahead for 5 ways you can treat acidity:

1. Buttermilk

Buttermilk contains lactic acid which essentially neutralises the acid in the stomach. A glass of chilled buttermilk will, therefore, reduce the acid reflux and will help you feel better.

Summer Cooler, Buttermilk by Camera Chemistry | www.shutterstock.com
Summer Cooler, Buttermilk by Camera Chemistry | www.shutterstock.com

2. Bananas

Bananas are low-acid fruits and can prove helpful when experiencing heartburns by soothing the oesophagus. Additionally, bananas are high on fibre and consuming them can help indigestion thereby strengthening the digestive system.

Bananas by Hanna_photo | www.shutterstock.com
Bananas by Hanna_photo | www.shutterstock.com

3. Coconut water

Amongst the many beneficial properties of coconut water, it is also an excellent remedy for acidity. Coconut water takes care of the pH balance of the body due to the presence of potassium and other natural enzymes. Potassium is an electrolyte and electrolytes are responsible for balancing the pH.

Organic Coconut Water by Valentina_G | www.shutterstock.com
Organic Coconut Water by Valentina_G | www.shutterstock.com

4. Cumin

Cumin seeds are alkaline, anti-inflammatory, and help in relieving acid reflux. They are also an essential kitchen ingredient so it’s not hard to find them. Consuming cumin seeds on a daily basis is said to facilitate good digestive health. Crush a few cumin seeds and have them with a glass of boiled water or pour the crushed powder in the boiled water to help with acidity.

Cumin Seeds by Dionisvera | www.shutterstock.com
Cumin Seeds by Dionisvera | www.shutterstock.com

5. Jaggery

Jaggery is high on magnesium and potassium and potassium is known for maintaining the pH balance. Having a lump of jaggery every day is advisable for its many digestive benefits. If you are experiencing acidity, suck on jaggery till its completely melted. Repeat this on an hourly basis till you are relieved from the acid reflux and heartburn.

Homemade Jaggery by SAM THOMAS A | www.shutterstock.com
Homemade Jaggery by SAM THOMAS A | www.shutterstock.com

The next time you experience the discomfort of acidity, make sure to give these remedies a try! If you know of any more ways, let us know in the comments below!

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