What''''s Acidity? Acidity is a form of indigestion in which there is accumulation of acid leading to a burning
sensation in the
stomach and the digestive tract. The stomach periodically produces acid to aid in digestion. It is when we don''''t eat at regular intervals or are excessively stressed the stomach produces more acids which harms our body.
What does it happen? 1. Irregular Meals 2. Oily and spicy foods 3. Stress 4. Over Eating
Symptons ofAcidity 1. Burning sensation in the digestive tract 2. Headache 3. Sour Burps 4. Dizziness dive to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)
Remedies Here are a few kitchen remedies that are sure to ease your discomfort...
1.
Kokum: Sherbet made with kokum and perked with jeera is excellent in keeping
Acidity at bay. Check out the recipe of Kokum Sherbet
2.
Lemon: Juice of one lemon mixed in half glass of water and ½ teaspoon sugar if consumed before meals helps to relieve acidity.
3.
Vegetable juices: Juices of vegetables like carrot, cucumber, radish or beetroot help to balance the acid in the stomach due to their alkaline nature. Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavour of these juices.
4.
Mint: Fresh mint juice taken every day or fresh mint leaves boiled in a cup of water and sipped slowly after meals also helps to keep the stomach acids at bay.
5.
Onion (pyaz): The juice of onions is an excellent remedy for acidity. Have them in salads with your meals or alternatively, you can also try a whole wheat flour or jowar rotis made with onions as done in the recipe of Jowar Pyaz ki Roti.
Foods to be Avoided Tea and coffee
Pickles, canned and preserved foods
Vinegar
Confectionery and mithai
Fermented foods like idli, dosa, dhokla, bread, cheese etc.
Tuvar dal.
How can acidity be prevented? 1. Regular eating habits and a healthy diet can prevent acidity. Do not remain hungry for a long time. Have plenty of raw foods, salads and juices and avoid spicy or deep fried foods.
2. Eat in a calm and stress-free environment. Avoid irregular and hurried meals.
3. Have your evening meals at least two to three hours before going to bed.
4. Drink plenty of water (at least 6 to 8 glasses per day) and other fluids to maintain the acid balance in the stomach.
5. Avoid smoking and alcohol.