Acid reflux - #869

From an Ayurvedic perspective, chronic acid reflux and tachycardia are often linked to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, leading to excessive heat and acidity in the body. This imbalance can also trigger stress and anxiety, exacerbating symptoms like restlessness and a rapid heartbeat. To manage these conditions, focus on a cooling and soothing diet. Avoid spicy, oily, and acidic foods, as well as stimulants like caffeine and alcohol. Instead, incorporate cooling and alkaline foods such as cucumbers, leafy greens, coconut water, and buttermilk into your daily diet. Herbal remedies like Amla (Indian gooseberry) and Shatavari can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acidity, while Arjuna is beneficial for calming the heart and reducing tachycardia. Drink herbal teas made with Licorice root or coriander to further balance Pitta. Lifestyle modifications are equally important; practice stress-relieving techniques like Pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, and gentle yoga to calm the mind and body. Sleeping with the head elevated and on your left side can help minimize nighttime reflux. Regular detoxification with mild herbal preparations like Triphala can support digestion and prevent toxin accumulation. Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized treatment plan, including potential use of Ayurvedic formulations like Avipattikar Churna, Kamdudha, Sootshekar for acid reflux, will provide long-term relief and restore balance in the body.

The persistent acid reflux, tachycardia, food regurgitation, and associated anxiety you're experiencing are indicative of an aggravated Pitta dosha in the digestive tract, leading to excess heat and acidity. This prolonged Pitta imbalance can also elevate Vata dosha, causing symptoms like restlessness, palpitations, and heightened anxiety, particularly worsening at night when Vata tends to peak. Ayurvedic treatments aim to soothe both Pitta and Vata, addressing the root cause of the acid reflux and providing relief from anxiety and restlessness. First, incorporating cooling and soothing foods into your diet can help calm Pitta. Avoid hot, spicy, fried, and sour foods as they increase acidity and Pitta levels. Instead, opt for meals that are naturally cooling, such as steamed vegetables, rice, barley, and lighter grains, and avoid heavy meals close to bedtime. Drinking a glass of buttermilk with a pinch of cumin powder after lunch can support digestion and reduce acidity. Additionally, sipping on jeera (cumin) and dhaniya (coriander) seed-infused water can cool down the digestive tract and reduce acid buildup. A useful herb in Ayurveda for managing acidity and stress is Shatavari, known for its cooling properties and ability to balance Pitta. It helps soothe the digestive tract and can be taken as a supplement or mixed in warm milk. Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry) is also recommended for reducing acidity, aiding digestion, and nourishing the tissues. Taking Triphala at night (in powder or tablet form) can help regulate digestion, prevent acid regurgitation, and relieve constipation if present. To manage stress and anxiety linked to Vata imbalance, daily self-massage (Abhyanga) with warm sesame oil is highly beneficial. Abhyanga helps calm the nervous system and reduces Vata-induced symptoms such as tachycardia and restlessness. Practicing Pranayama (breathing exercises) such as Sheetali and Anulom Vilom can also bring calmness to the mind, reduce stress, and balance both Pitta and Vata doshas. For nighttime relief, try having a cup of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric, a small amount of ghee, and brahmi powder before bed; this combination can promote relaxation, ease acid reflux, and prevent nighttime palpitations.