Causes of Acidity: Understanding What Triggers the Burn

Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a common digestive condition that affects millions of people. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe (esophagus), causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, frequent acidity can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may lead to more serious complications if left unmanaged.

Understanding the causes of acidity is the first step toward prevention and lasting relief.

🔹 1. Poor Eating Habits

One of the biggest culprits behind acidity is how and what we eat:

• Skipping meals or irregular meal timings

• Eating large meals in one sitting

• Late-night eating or lying down soon after meals

• Eating too fast and not chewing food properly

These habits disrupt the natural digestive rhythm and cause excess acid production.

🔹 2. Spicy, Oily, and Junk Food

Foods that are high in fat, spices, or oil can irritate the stomach lining and trigger acid reflux. Some common examples include:

• Fried snacks

• Spicy gravies

• Pizza, burgers, chips

• Processed foods and packaged meals

Such foods are harder to digest and increase stomach acidity.

🔹 3. Excessive Caffeine, Tea & Carbonated Drinks

Drinks like coffee, tea, colas, and energy drinks are acidic in nature and can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — the valve that prevents stomach acid from moving upward.

When this valve weakens, it becomes easier for acid to rise, resulting in a burning sensation or bitter taste in the mouth.

🔹 4. Alcohol and Smoking

Both alcohol and smoking are major contributors to acidity:

• Alcohol increases acid production and irritates the stomach lining.

• Smoking weakens the LES and slows down digestion.

Regular use of either can turn occasional acidity into a chronic issue.

🔹 5. Stress and Lack of Sleep

Mental and emotional stress, along with inadequate sleep, can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Stress increases acid production, while lack of sleep interferes with digestion and gut motility.

This is why people under pressure often experience acidity, even if their diet seems healthy.

🔹 6. Certain Medications

Some common medications can irritate the stomach or cause the LES to relax, including:

• Painkillers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin)

• Antibiotics

• Blood pressure medicines

• Steroids

Always consult a doctor if you experience acidity after starting new medications.

🔹 7. Being Overweight or Obese

Excess body weight puts pressure on the stomach, pushing acid upward. This increases the chances of acid reflux, especially after meals or when lying down.

Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of acidity symptoms.

🔹 8. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against the stomach often lead to acidity. It’s very common during the second and third trimesters and usually subsides after childbirth.

🔹 9. H. pylori Infection

A bacterial infection caused by Helicobacter pylori can lead to excessive acid production and gastritis, which can cause burning, bloating, or ulcers.

If you experience chronic acidity, it’s worth getting tested for H. pylori by a gastroenterologist or infectious diseases specialist.

🔹 10. Underlying Medical Conditions

Sometimes, acidity is not just a dietary issue but a symptom of an underlying health problem:

• GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

• Hiatal hernia

• Gastritis

• Peptic ulcers

If you have frequent or severe acidity, a proper medical evaluation is essential.

✅ When to See a Doctor

While occasional acidity is normal, consult a doctor if you experience:

• Acidity more than twice a week

• Difficulty swallowing or persistent throat irritation

• Chest pain mimicking heart attack

• Unexplained weight loss

• Vomiting blood or passing black stools

📞 Get Expert Help

If acidity is interfering with your daily life, don’t ignore it. You may need a personalized treatment plan that addresses your diet, lifestyle, gut health, and underlying causes.

📍Contact DNA Diet Clinic by Dr. Rushikesh Trivedi to get a customized diet plan and expert advice tailored to your body’s unique needs.
📞 Call: 099133 30931