Foods to help you overcome acidity

Acidity can strike anytime, making you feel uncomfortable with all that gas in the stomach and heart burn. The reasons for this might be many, with the most common being long gap between meals, having too much of spicy food and tea/coffee regularly. So while the wrong food can trigger this problem, there are certain foods, easily available in the kitchen which help you get rid of acidity instantly.
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Banana is perhaps the best natural antacids that guards against acidity. Rich in potassium, it is advisable to eat one banana every day and if you have long gaps in between meals, banana is the best snack option. So pick up this fruit as and when you feel discomfort and heartburn.
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Basil leaves have soothing properties to give you instant relief from acidity. Chew on a few basil leaves or boil 3-4 basil leaves in a cup of water and let it simmer for a few minutes. Sip on it frequently till you feel better.
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Considered to having sattvic properties in Ayurveda, buttermilk contains lactic acid that actually helps regularise acidity in the stomach. Remember, to have a glass of buttermilk after eating a heavy or spicy meal and for best results sprinkle black pepper or cumin seeds powder in it. You can also add curry leaves for flavour.

Coconut water, helps turn your body’s pH level from acidic to alkaline while also protecting the stomach from harmful effects of further acid production.

If you are not lactose intolerant, drinking cold milk can help stabilize gastric juices in the stomach. Since it is rich in calcium, it also prevents the build-up of excess acid in the stomach. It is thus one of the simplest remedies when you have an acidity attack. Just reach out for a glass of cold milk and drink it right away.
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No wonder many Indians have a habit of chewing on saunf after meals, since it works best to prevent acidity. You can also have fennel tea to keep the digestive tract healthy and reduce the feeling of indigestion and bloating.
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Cardamom or elaichi stimulates digestion and helps relieve stomach spasms by soothing the inner lining of the stomach. This thus helps ward off the bad effects of excess acid produced in the stomach. Whenever you feel a bout of acidity striking, take two pods of cardamom, crush them coarsely and boil them in water. Cool and drink the juice to get instant relief.

Jaggery with its high magnesium content helps boost intestinal strength, thus aiding digestion. Make it a habit to suck on a piece of jaggery after your meal, to cool off your stomach.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the Doctors are their independent professional judgment and we do not take any responsibility for the accuracy of their views. This should not be considered as a substitute for Physician's advice. Please consult your treating Physician for more details.