How to Get Rid of Acidity

The stomach secretes acid for the proper digestion of food. The excess secretion of acid by the gastric glands of the stomach can cause acidity, or acid reflux. Acidity can harm the esophageal lining by causing pain, irritation and serious damage if left untreated. Luckily, you may be able to manage or get rid of acidity through medication, lifestyle changes and proper diet.

Instructions

• 1

  Get a proper diagnosis for this condition. Depending on the severity of the acidity, a doctor may treat this condition either with prescribed or over-the-counter medication. Some of these over-the-counter medications to treat acidity are antacids (neutralizes acid), H-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors, both of which reduce the production of acid. For a more serious case of acid reflux, you may need a prescription.

• 2

  Eliminate alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, tea, citrus fruit drinks and high fat, fried or spicy foods from your diet to get rid of acidity. In addition, abstain from smoking, as this may also increase stomach acid.

• 3

  Choose foods that are high in complex carbohydrates to include in your meals. Drinking water is also advisable.

• 4

  Eat smaller meals to reduce the chance of stomach acid coming back up into the esophagus. Less food requires less acid secretion for digestion. In addition, wait 3 to 4 hours before sleeping or lying down after a meal.

• 5

  Maintain a healthy body weight to minimize the chance of this condition. Extra weight can increase the risk factors for heartburn and acid reflux.

• 6

  Learn to manage stress in your life. Too much stress can trigger an over-production of stomach acid.

• 7

  Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 9 inches. When sleeping, try to keep your body from the waist up elevated. You can get foam wedges which are available in medical supply stores to elevate your body.