Acidity is a common issue in our fast-paced lives, often showing up just when one is trying to relax or enjoy a good meal. If you’ve ever experienced that familiar burning sensation in your chest or felt discomfort after eating, you’re not alone—acidity affects millions and can disrupt your daily routine.One of the leading causes of acidity is modern lifestyle habits, such as irregular meals, frequent consumption of spicy or oily foods, excessive caffeine, alcohol, and high stress levels. Smoking and certain medications can also contribute. These factors together increase stomach acid production, making it easier for that acid to move up into the esophagus and cause discomfort. 

Symptoms

• Burning sensation in chest or throat (heartburn)

• Sour or bitter taste in mouth

• Indigestion, bloating, or discomfort after eating

• Nausea or feeling of vomiting

• Persistent burping or hiccups

• Difficulty swallowing in some cases

• Regurgitation of food or acid

Causes

• Eating spicy, oily, or fatty foods

• Overeating or irregular meal timings

• Excessive intake of caffeine, soft drinks, or alcohol

• Smoking and tobacco use

• Stress, anxiety, and lack of physical activity

• Lying down soon after eating

• Use of certain medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics, antidepressants)

• Digestive disorders (GERD, peptic ulcer)

Cure & Management

• Eat smaller, frequent meals

• Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or citrus items

• Stay upright after meals; avoid lying down immediately

• Reduce stress through exercise, meditation, or yoga

• Quit smoking, limit alcohol, and cut down caffeine

• Use home remedies (cold milk, fennel seeds, ginger tea)

• Take antacids or doctor-prescribed medications for persistent symptoms

• Consult a professional if symptoms persist or worsen