Heartburn and acid reflux - #60

Dear Priyanka, Managing hyperacidity through Ayurveda involves balancing the Pitta dosha, improving digestion, and incorporating soothing practices. Here’s a comprehensive Ayurvedic prescription: 1. Dietary Recommendations (Ahara) Avoid Acidic and Spicy Foods: Minimize consumption of citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, and vinegar, as they can aggravate acidity. Favor Cooling Foods: Include sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes. Good options are: Vegetables: Leafy greens, cucumbers, and zucchini. Fruits: Sweet apples, pears, and melons. Whole Grains: Opt for easily digestible grains like rice and oats. Healthy Fats: Incorporate ghee and olive oil in moderation. Warm, Cooked Meals: Focus on warm, cooked foods that are easier to digest and soothing to the stomach. 2. Herbal Remedies Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Known for its ability to balance Pitta and improve digestion. It can be taken as juice or powder. Ginger: Helps stimulate digestion and reduce nausea. Use fresh ginger in teas or meals. Licorice Root (Mulethi): Soothes the stomach lining and helps alleviate acidity. Triphala: A blend of three fruits that aids digestion and detoxification. 3. Lifestyle Modifications Regular Meal Times: Eat at consistent times and avoid skipping meals to maintain digestive balance. Smaller Portions: Consume smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones to prevent overwhelming the digestive system. Avoid Eating Late at Night: Allow at least 2-3 hours between your last meal and bedtime to facilitate digestion. 4. Stress Management Meditation and Deep Breathing: Incorporate daily practices to reduce stress, as stress can exacerbate acidity. Gentle Yoga: Poses like seated forward bends can help calm the digestive system. 5. Hydration Warm Water: Drink warm water throughout the day to aid digestion. Herbal Teas: Consume soothing teas like chamomile, peppermint, or fennel. 6. Consultation Personalized Guidance: For persistent hyperacidity, consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for a tailored treatment plan that addresses your unique constitution and symptoms.