How to regulate the acidity of the body what to take. Methods of self-diagnosis

The crazy rhythm of life negatively affects health. Eating on the go, junk food, overeating - this leads to indigestion, feeling unwell. Normal level stomach acidity is responsible for protecting digestive tract. Increased acidity or low acidity are equally dangerous to health.

An imbalance in the secretion of acid from the stomach is a great health hazard.

Causes of acid disturbance

To maintain strength and energy, a person needs a constant supply of nutrients, trace elements and vitamins. Useful substances enter the body with food. In the form in which we are accustomed to seeing food, it cannot be useful to the body. It needs to be digested and broken down.

Once in the stomach, food under the influence of gastric juice goes through the stage of digestion. The process of digestion, splitting of food in the stomach occurs with the necessary balance of hydrochloric acid. Its quantity in the composition of gastric juice and provides the rate of acidity. There are cases when the normal balance of hydrochloric acid is disturbed, forming elevated level acidity or reduced. There are two main reasons that affect the acid balance:

• infection in the gastrointestinal tract;
• intestinal disorders due to malnutrition;
• stressful situations play an important role.

The result is an imbalance. With an increase in the volume of hydrochloric acid, the aggressive environment inside the stomach increases. The result may be the formation of an ulcer. A decrease in the level of acid leads to indigestion and the occurrence of various diseases of the digestive system.

Acidity symptoms

Signs of violation general condition make you think about the complexity of the situation. Everyone needs to know the main symptoms. They will not affect the diagnosis, but they will provide timely assistance. Signs of acidity imbalance are divided into early and late. Increased acidity at an early stage is accompanied by:

• heartburn, the appearance of which is not affected by food;
• belching that appears immediately after eating, with a characteristic sour or bitter taste;
• pain in the stomach, sometimes passing into the right hypochondrium.

Late symptoms are expressed by gastric disorders:

• loss of appetite;
• flatulence;
• nausea;
• vomit.

Decreased acidity most often occurs with gastritis

Decreased acidity is most often observed in people suffering from gastritis and having neoplasms in the stomach area. She behaves quietly, sometimes almost imperceptibly. The following symptoms are characteristic of low acidity:

• an unpleasant smell from the oral cavity, with a rotten taste (the condition of the teeth does not affect the smell);
• violation of the stool (constipation or diarrhea in a patient depends on the immune system, since this is affected by the number of pathogenic microorganisms that have entered the body along with the products);
• pain in the intestinal area;
• dryness skin, acne on the face, foliation of nails - the result of poor absorption of vitamins, trace elements;
• undigested food particles in the stool.

The manifestation of the above symptoms in each person is individual, therefore, only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after required examination.

Determine the level of acidity

At home, it is impossible to determine the level of subacidity. The accuracy of the result can only be obtained by carrying out necessary research in a medical facility. The following procedures help to obtain an accurate result:

They are carried out only in the presence medical workers and only in the hospital. All other methods, using test strips, with staining the walls of the stomach, show a relative result and simply confirm the presence of a problem.

Methods that normalize the increased acidity of the stomach

If a thorough examination showed that there are no significant deviations in human health, then we can conclude that the increase in the level of hydrochloric acid is not to blame. proper nutrition. In this case, the diet will help. To restore the balance of acid, the following rules must be observed:

• refuse products that provoke heartburn and leave a sour aftertaste. These include: coffee, carbonated drinks, canned fruits and vegetables legumes, sweet dishes, radish, spinach;
• do not eat fatty foods;
• dairy products, with high fat content.

It is important to correctly calculate those foods and dishes that bring deterioration. This list is individual for each person.

Medications that reduce acidity

If the study showed the presence of the disease, it is necessary to connect serious therapy. Normalize the state with medicines- only correct option prevent the development of the disease. The work of the stomach includes not only the digestion of food, each of its cells is aimed at performing several actions:

• increased production of hydrochloric acid;
• the formation of pepsin;
• slime formation.

Tablets for the normalization of the acidic environment act primarily on the parietal cells, which are responsible for its formation. Then they stabilize the production of mucus and bind the acid that has already been produced. Medications that reduce the acid level, instant action and are divided into two groups:

• Antacids - absorb harmful particles, neutralizing the acid level. At the same time, they envelop the walls of the stomach and stimulate the production of protective mucus. The group of antacids includes Rennie, Gastal, Almagel, Maalox, Phosphalugel. Antacids are sold without prescriptions, are used when an ambulance is needed (heartburn, belching, epigastric pain), but the effect of a positive result does not last long.

• Alginates - contribute to the formation of a protective film on the walls of the stomach, absorb hydrochloric acid and remove it from the body, support immunity. Gaviscon, Laminal, De-nol, Vikalin. Relief from alginates lasts longer.
• Blockers. Almost everyone suffering from an increased acidic environment suffers from heartburn. If antacids failed to restore the required level of acidity, the doctor may prescribe blockers that act directly on the cells. They inhibit their work, lower the level of acid, which the body cannot cope with on its own, and contribute to the formation of a protective layer. These drugs include "Omeprazole", "Esomeprazole", "Pantoprazole". The environment that forms after taking medications is ideal for healing ulcers, erosions and eliminating the inflammatory process.

Methods for normalizing low acidity

When the acid level of gastric juice is lower than expected, it is immediately necessary to pay attention not to the products included in the diet. A low acid content indicates a low protein content. The amount of protein-containing foods should be increased, and fatty, smoked, fried foods should be excluded.

How can you normalize the acidity of your stomach. Both high and low acidity are dangerous for the stomach. At an early stage, you can regulate it yourself with the help of a diet, foreign media write.

Too high.

What is dangerous? When the stomach secretes more acid than it needs, the risk of peptic ulcer increases. In addition, increased acidity is accompanied by excessive nervousness, heartburn, discomfort and pain in the stomach that occurs between meals.

What will help? It is necessary to take soothing and enveloping mucous means: a decoction of flaxseed, an infusion of oatmeal, oatmeal or berry non-acidic jelly. works well spa treatment mineral water or daily intake such waters as Bjni, Borjomi, Jermuk, Slavyanovskaya, Smirnovskaya, Moscowskaya, Kashinskaya. It is necessary to drink them in a warm form, a glass an hour and a half before meals.

It is necessary to refuse sour vegetable and fruit juices, fermentations, marinades. It is good to use steamed lean meat or fish, fresh dairy products, liquid slimy soups and cereals, pureed vegetable stew, egg whites.

Too low.

What is dangerous? Lack of appetite, frequent stools, and diarrhea indicate a low acidity of gastric juice. They indicate that the stomach does not cope with its work, part of the food is simply not digested. Accordingly, organs and tissues receive less nutrients.

What will help? You need to regularly drink acidic vegetable, berry and fruit juices, for example, 100 ml of juice sauerkraut before breakfast, a glass of sweetened cranberry juice before dinner, 100 ml of lemon juice diluted with water and honey in the afternoon and 100–200 ml tomato juice before dinner. It is advisable to regularly (2-3 times a day) 15-20 minutes before meals drink a glass of warm mineral water Badamly No. 4, Arzni, Essentuki No. 4 or No. 17, Uglichskaya, Druskininkai.

To improve the condition of the gastric mucosa, infusions and decoctions of wild rose, licorice root, cudweed, chamomile on an empty stomach are useful. The diet should be sparing. Vegetables and fruits are only stewed, and even better baked. Cabbage, legumes, beets, millet and barley porridge and other dishes containing coarse fiber. The diet should not contain fried, spicy and fatty foods, preservatives. First of all, sausages and other smoked meat products are excluded. Fractional meals (4-6 times a day) in small portions are very useful.

Moreover, one of the meals can be a baked apple with cottage cheese, or a boiled egg, or a piece of cheese with white bread made from fine flour.

You will need

• - three-leaf watch leaves, peppermint, dill seeds, yarrow inflorescences, St. John's wort;
• - horseradish juice, honey or sugar;
• - honey.

Instruction

Regardless of the causes of gastritis and the level of acidity, first of all, it is necessary to unload the stomach. It is recommended that the first 1-2 days completely refrain from eating, eating only one, best green tea or mineral water without gas.

The next step is to adjust your diet. When it is not recommended to eat fried, spicy, spicy, smoked foods. Opt for soups, cereals, white crackers, soft-boiled eggs. Food should not be either cold or excessively hot, its optimal should be 37 ° C. It is very good if yours is based on the principles of . This applies mainly to meat and meat products. It is best to eat lean, boiled meat, which is served separately from other foods.

You need to make it a habit to eat little and often: it is difficult for a sick stomach to cope with large amounts of food. It is best to eat at least five times a day, at the same time. Consistent and thorough, you can completely normalize the acidity of the stomach, without resorting to the use of medicines.

At hyperacidity the following decoction helps: take one part of the leaves of the three-leaf watch, seven parts of peppermint leaves, dill seeds, yarrow inflorescences and 15 parts of St. John's wort. Mix medicinal herbs and pour two tablespoons of the resulting mixture with two cups of boiling water. Evaporate for two hours, and then strain thoroughly. The decoction must be drunk throughout the day for a couple of weeks. If necessary, the course is repeated in a month.

With a low level of acidity, use fresh horseradish juice, which has the property of enhancing the secretion of gastric juice. Before meals, consume one teaspoon of grated horseradish mixed with honey or sugar.

The general tool for normalization is natural honey. If it is, preferably diluted in a small warm water, 1.5-2 hours before meals, it reduces the secretion of gastric juice. If honey is consumed immediately before a meal, it will stimulate the secretion of gastric juice.

Sources:

• how to increase stomach acid with honey

Increased acidity in the stomach is manifested by heartburn, pain and heaviness in the abdomen, belching and occasional indigestion. But the danger given state lies in the fact that the lining of the stomach suffers first of all, and therefore there is a high risk of developing gastritis and ulcers.

Instruction

If home remedies have proven powerless in the fight against high acidity, there is nothing left but to resort to medication. In such situations, doctors usually ("Almagel", "Gastal", "Maalox", "Rennie" and others). Only this is a temporary measure that will remove the effect, but will not save you from causing increased acidity of the stomach. Therefore, it is better not to self-medicate, but to consult a specialist for examination and therapy.

Sources:

• how to reduce stomach acid

Water always contains a certain amount of hydrogen ions H^+ and hydroxyl ions OH^-. If there are more hydrogen ions, the water becomes acidic; if there are more hydroxyl ions, then it becomes alkaline. To assess the degree of acidity of an aqueous solution, there is pH value. It is numerically equal to the negative decimal logarithm of the activity of hydrogen ions, its unit of dimension is mol/liter. That is, pH = -lg. The pH value ranges from 0 to 14. If it is less than 7, the solution is acidic. Accordingly, if more than 7 - alkaline.

You will need

• - indicator papers;
• - laboratory pipette or plastic tube;
• - transparent container;
• - indicator substances;
• - pH meter.

Instruction

There is a quick and easy, though not very exact way acidity determination water- using indicator papers (strips). They can be found in chemical stores or obtained from laboratories. There is always a standard comparison scale on the packaging, where each pH value corresponds to a certain color - from cherry-burgundy (strongly acidic, pH = 0) to dark blue (strongly alkaline, pH = 14).

Tip 4: How to determine the acidity of the stomach at home and normalize it

Increased stomach acid frequent occurrence today. To recognize this disease, you need to contact your doctor. But, if this is not possible, you can determine the increased acidity of the stomach at home.

Changes in the acidity of the stomach are often accompanied by discomfort. If it is elevated, then the person will experience the following symptoms:

• acute pain in the stomach;


• heartburn;


• constipation;


• burning pain in the stomach;


• loose stool.

In people with low stomach acid, there is frequent rumbling in the stomach and bad breath.

It should be noted that lifestyle directly affects the acidity of the stomach. For example, increased acidity is often observed in smokers, people who abuse alcohol. Also, increased acidity is noted in people who constantly chew chewing gum on empty stomach. Decreased acidity, as a rule, is found in people who lack protein foods.

How to change the acidity of the stomach

All of the above symptoms will help determine the increased / decreased acidity in. To bring the condition of the stomach in order, you can consult a doctor to prescribe medication.

Without the help of a specialist, you can lower the acidity if:

1. Drink at least 2 liters of water throughout the day.


2. Divide meals into 5 servings.


3. Include dairy products, fruits and vegetables, fish and white meat in your diet.


4. Do not consume alcohol, coffee, chocolate, citrus fruits, fried or fatty foods.

To increase the acidity of the stomach in, you need to eat more grapes, apricots, turnip puree, drink 500 ml of whole milk. A good way to increase the acidity of the stomach is considered honey water. To prepare it, you need to mix ½ tsp. honey and 100 ml of boiled warm water. The drink should be drunk half an hour before meals 3 times a day.

Related videos

Gastritis is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system. Among the reasons that cause it, the main one is a violation of the diet. However important role the composition of gastric juice plays a role in the development of the disease, so restoring its acidity should be the first step in the treatment of gastritis.

You will need

• - chamomile;
• - mint;
• - anise seeds.

Instruction

One of the easiest ways to restore stomach acidity is a special one. Normalize the composition of gastric juice will help lean varieties meat and fish. With increased acidity, use them boiled, with reduced acidity, you can stew or even lightly fry. Whole milk gastric juice, so do not abuse it with the reverse problem. In this case, use milk only for making cereals and omelettes, and give preference to fermented milk products. With low acidity, eat more raw vegetables, with increased acidity, include boiled, baked and stewed in the diet. Rich broths are recommended for low acidity, while they are strictly prohibited for the reverse problem. Salinity, smoked meats and spicy dishes should be excluded for any stomach problems, as well as canned food.

As additional funds stomach acidity use recipes traditional medicine. Pour a tablespoon of chopped chamomile or mint with half a liter of boiling water. Let the herbs brew for an hour, then strain the liquid and drink 100 ml. With a triple daily use this infusion, the acidity of gastric juice decreases. To solve the reverse problem, prepare herbal tea from anise seeds in a similar way.

Tip 6: What herbs help with acidity

High acidity can cause stomach ulcers. To reduce acidity and normalize the function of digestion, take medications prescribed by a doctor. You can supplement the main therapy with medicinal herbs and fees.

Herbs to Help Normalize Acidity

St. John's wort. For treatment, prepare a decoction by brewing 1 tbsp. dry raw materials with a glass of boiling water. Insist 30 minutes. Take 2 tbsp. before eating.

Plantain. Brew 1 tbsp. raw materials with a liter of boiling water. Insist in a thermos for 3 hours. Strain the infusion and take half a glass 3 times a day before meals.

Peppermint. Brew 3 tbsp. dry raw materials with one liter of boiling water. Insist in a thermos for 3 hours. Take a glass in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before bed.

Flax seeds. Grind 3 tbsp. dry seeds in a coffee grinder, brew a glass of boiling water, take 3 tbsp. before every meal.

Burdock. Brew 1 tbsp. crushed raw materials with a glass of boiling water. Insist for 2-3 hours. Strain the decoction and take 2 tbsp. after meal.

Medications that help with high acidity

Mix in equal proportions the leaves of the watch, mint, yarrow, centaury and fennel fruits. 1 tbsp medicinal collection, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes. Take half a glass of infusion 3-4 times a day 40 minutes before meals.

Mix 5 parts of St. John's wort with 3 parts of chamomile and 2 parts of yarrow. Brew 1 tbsp. medicinal raw materials with a glass of boiling water. Take all the warm and filtered broth at once. During the day, you need to drink 3 cups of freshly prepared infusion on an empty stomach.

Do drug collection from 5 parts of chamomile, 3 parts of St. John's wort and 1 part of celandine. Brew 1 tbsp. collection with a glass of boiling water, take a third of a glass 4 times a day 20 minutes before meals.

Mix 8 parts of St. John's wort with the same amount of plantain leaves, add 4 parts of centaury, calamus rhizomes and carefully crushed cumin fruits. Brew 2 tbsp. collection with one liter of boiling water, insist in a tightly closed container or in a thermos for 3 hours. Take one third of a glass 6 times a day on an empty stomach.

Mix 6 parts of calendula with 3 parts of plantain, 2 parts of chamomile and 2 parts of yarrow. Brew 1 tbsp. crushed dry raw materials with two glasses of boiling water. Insist 2 hours. Take half a glass 4 to 5 times a day 40 minutes before meals or 2 hours after meals.

When is herbal treatment contraindicated?

Before using herbal decoctions, get a doctor's recommendation. Do not use these herbs for individual intolerance, allergic reactions, gastritis with low acidity. Remember that it does not cancel the therapy prescribed by the doctor, but only supplements it. The course of phytotherapy should not exceed 3 weeks. Then take a break for 2-3 weeks and, if necessary, continue taking decoctions from medicinal raw materials.

Decreased stomach acid juice causes discomfort in the abdomen, digestion seems to stop. The same can be observed with increased acidity, so a specialist should diagnose the disease. Therapy should also be selected by a professional, and you just have to follow all the recommendations and only help yourself with auxiliary means of treatment.

You will need

• - dairy products;
• - citrus juices or sour fruit drinks;
• - vitamin C;
• - mineral water;
• - yeast;
• - calamus roots;
• - chaga mushroom.

Instruction

Eat fermented milk products such as curdled milk or yogurt. It not only normalizes acidity, but will also lead to digestion, which is also very useful in treatment. Preparations with bifidus and lactobacilli are not able to replace fermented milk products, but in combination they will have a positive result and speed up recovery.

Drink freshly squeezed citrus fruit juices, sea buckthorn jam or blackcurrant juice 30 minutes before meals. Vitamin C can replace them, preferably soluble, and not for resorption. But if you have a stomach ulcer, then before using these products, consult a gastroenterologist.

Buy medicinal mineral water. Pay attention to the instructions from the manufacturer. The bottle should say "For the treatment of gastritis with reduced acidity Yu". If you mix something up, the effect of the treatment will be just the opposite. Take 1 glass before meals for 1-2 months, then take a short break.

Brew a teaspoon of calamus root in a glass of boiling water. Take 50 ml 3-4 times a day before meals. Instead of calamus root, plantain is also suitable, it is brewed in the same way.

Purchase a chaga mushroom. Pour a teaspoon warm water in the evening, but not boiling water. In the morning, strain the infusion through cheesecloth and consume throughout the day in small sips. One glass should be enough for one day.

Over the past few decades, a huge number of people have stopped monitoring what they eat. The abundance of fast food and the so-called gastronomic garbage does not give the majority of the population of Russia and the CIS countries a chance to make a choice in favor of healthy and, because it is much easier for little money and quickly enough to have a meal in a cafe with food of not always high quality.

The introduction of such a nutrition policy adversely affects the condition and functioning (GIT). In most cases, there is a problem of deviation from the norm of the level of acidity of the stomach. There are a lot of diseases that cause it, but we can say with confidence that it is necessary to eliminate the disease and this is quite feasible on our own.

Reduced acidity of the stomach negatively affects the state of the body.

A reduced level of acidity in the gastrointestinal tract indicates a partial or complete dysfunction of the secretion nodes (usually glands) involved in the process of splitting food.

Weak activity of producing, splitting acids and pepsin compounds are the main signs of a poorly functioning gastric secretion system. This phenomenon negatively affects the state of the body.

Systematically low level acidity in the stomach will certainly lead to an excessive accumulation of undigested substances complex structure in the human body, which negatively affects its general well-being. Based on this, it is worth noting the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of pathology.

Based on this, it is possible to identify the most effective and safe foods for systematic eating that will help in the fight against the instability of the acidity of your gastrointestinal tract. The list of products is:

1. fermented milk products (, yogurt, fermented baked milk, etc.) - not only increase acidity, but also generally have a positive effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, improving digestive processes;
2. 30 minutes before meals ideal option will drink either citrus juice or berry juice (contraindication - ulcer);
3. it would not be superfluous to include daily diet a teaspoon of honey, also take half an hour before meals;
4. eat as much as possible sour berries and fruits (currants, gooseberries, kiwi, etc.);
5. cook jelly, compote or the same fruit drink for your own use; the most preferred options are drinks from sea buckthorn and rose hips;
6. an hour before a meal, you can eat a couple of apricots (fresh or dried), as they stimulate the production of gastric juice;
7. if you do not abuse and drink 50-100 grams of alcohol per day (during the treatment period), you can also normalize the level of acidity in the gastrointestinal tract;
8. a good activator of acid production is fleshy grapes;
9. various vegetables will also come in handy with an unpleasant pathology, the most successful choice: cucumbers, beans,; you can take them as pure form, and in dishes;
10. boiled meat and green spices(onions, parsley, dill, etc.) also have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the stomach and its secretion.

It should be understood that the above products will provide real help only if the overall diet is correct and healthy. It is important not to eat a lot of fatty foods, fast food and other gastronomic garbage. Otherwise, the effect should not be expected - unpleasant symptoms will remain.

Folk remedies

Sour apples will help with low stomach acid.

A number of cases in patients with low blood pressure involve the treatment of pathology with folk remedies.

However, it is important to understand the seriousness this event, since only a doctor can fully determine whether it is rational in a particular case or not.

The real effect of treatment with the help of folk remedies can only be achieved with proper nutrition. Most effective recipes of the people are presented below:

• Lemongrass or the juice of its fruits. The medicine is taken in two forms: 2-3 grams of seed powder or a tablespoon of fruit juice. Optimal time taking the remedy - 30-40 minutes after eating. Lemongrass is able to normalize the level of acid and relieve pain in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Sour apples, red currants and. To prepare this folk remedy is moderately simple: mix berries and fruits (300-500 grams each) with cabbage (1.5-2 kg), and then chop everything in a meat grinder or blender. Transfer the resulting mixture to a glass dish, keeping it in a dark place. After the start of the fermentation process, strain the gruel and take 80-100 grams daily, 2-3 times a day before meals.
• Redcurrant drink. Mix half a kilo of berries with 250 grams of sugar (1 cup), keeping the mixture for about 4-5 hours. After the elapsed time, it is necessary to boil the product for about 30-40 minutes. Drink the drink cooled in half a glass before meals.
• Nut tincture. Grind 15-20 pieces of unripe nuts, and then mix the mixture with half a liter of vodka. Soak the tincture for at least two weeks in a closed glass jar. Strain the liquid before taking. The remedy is taken by mixing a teaspoon of the tincture with a glass of water once a day.
• Decoctions or settings from aloe, anise or dandelion. These preparations, prepared in any way, perfectly increase the acidity of the stomach, normalizing the secretion system of the gastrointestinal tract.

It is important to note that the application will be effective only if it takes place, the doctor controls the entire process and the disease is at an early stage of its development.

Therapy with mineral water

Mineral water will help raise the level of acidity in the body.

The best addition to any type of therapy to increase the level of acidity in the stomach is a systematic intake.

With a pathology of the gastrointestinal tract of this kind, water must be drunk slowly 10-20 minutes before meals, or in a similar way directly in the process itself.

Before organizing the reception of mineral waters, it is advisable to consult with the attending specialist in order to avoid any problems. Treatment, as a rule, is carried out by some types of mineral waters (MW), or rather:

1. Slavyanovskaya and Smirnovskaya MW are the most prominent representatives of medicinal waters North Caucasus belonging to the Zheleznovodsk region of the KMV. The abundance in the composition of sulfates, bicarbonates, chlorides, magnesium and calcium salts makes the waters a real activator of increasing the acidity of the gastrointestinal tract. The course of receiving these mineral waters is 30-40 days. The optimal amount of the daily norm is 6-8 ml per 1 kilogram of the patient's body. It is necessary to repeat the course 2-4 times a year to get the best effect.
2. Essentuki MW under numbers 4 and 17 are also waters with CMW, which are distinguished by a higher content of sodium, magnesium and potassium compounds, boron, bromine and other active substances of a hydrogen sulfide nature. The course is the same as in the previous case. Normal daily dose is 70-250 ml.
3. Izhevsk MWs are an excellent representative of chloride-sulfate and magnesium-sodium-calcium waters. This mineral water is taken heated strictly according to the doctor's prescription. The duration of the course is not more than 4 weeks.

Some people cannot take mineral waters or can do it, but only in small quantities, which is why consultation with a doctor is quite an important event.

The greatest therapeutic effect can be achieved by working in tandem with the treating specialist. In conclusion, it is worth ascertaining the danger and seriousness of low acidity of the gastrointestinal tract. Only timely diagnosis and properly organized therapy will help you avoid potential complications.

1 Causes and symptoms of the disease

The acidity of gastric secretion is an indicator of the content of hydrochloric acid produced in it, measured in pH. The norm is 1.5-2 pH. The glands of the mucosa of the organ are responsible for its production, and any failure means a change in the number of these glands or a decrease in the production of the opposite alkaline component of the juice. Chronic increase in stomach acid main symptom many gastroenterological disorders, primarily ulcers and gastritis.

The occurrence of such a symptom as increased acidity of the stomach can provoke many diseases:

acute gastritis;

peptic ulcer organs of the gastrointestinal tract;

reflux esophagitis;

hernia in the opening of the esophagus through the diaphragm;

pathologies of organs such as the liver and pancreas;

burns of the gastric mucosa;

poisoning of various origins, including mercury vapor and poisons;

food infections causing intoxication;

allergic reactions;

disruptions in the endocrine system;

diseases of the heart and blood vessels;

stomach cancer.

In people in whose lives the following risk factors are present, hyperproduction of hydrochloric acid is noted much more often:

improper catering, mainly "dry food";

frequent snacking that disrupts normal secretion gastric juice;

abuse of strong tea and coffee, cigarettes and alcoholic beverages;

some drugs - hormones, antibiotics, heart drugs;

avitaminosis;

genetic predisposition;

no matter how trite, stressful situations.

Diseases with high acidity manifest themselves quite differently - the symptoms depend on the degree of neglect, prescription and the type of processes occurring in the stomach.

The first call to see a doctor should be pain that is localized in the stomach area - from the epigastric zone to the extensive epigastric region, as well as the left hypochondrium. As a rule, the symptom appears some time after eating (30-60 minutes), but with a peptic ulcer it can also be felt on an empty stomach. The nature of the pain is as follows - burning, aching, with acute gastritis - jerking, in rare cases - cutting and cramping.

Another important feature- heartburn, which often appears without a reason, even at night. Most often it is associated with the use of certain foods. Heartburn becomes painful and persistent over time, forcing the patient to take various drugs, but it is important to remember that independent choice can adversely affect health - a specialist should diagnose and prescribe medications.

Increased acidity in the stomach may be accompanied by other signs:

distension, bloating and heaviness of the abdomen;

reducing the level of discomfort after eating;

loss of appetite;

sour belching;

permanent constipation. less often - flatulence and diarrhea;

general malaise, irritability, absent-mindedness, depression, poor sleep and, as a result, a decrease in efficiency.

2 Treatment activities

When signs of a disease are detected, the question arises - how to reduce the acidity of the stomach as efficiently and safely as possible for health?

To quickly remove unpleasant and painful sensations, proven “grandmother's” remedies will help - a solution of baking soda or cold milk. However, they act for a very short time, and treatment is necessary to fully eliminate the problem. There are three main methods for reducing the acidity of gastric secretions, which are used by specialists:

drug therapy;

treatment with traditional medicine;

diet.

It is important that any treatment regimen is chosen exclusively by a gastroenterologist after necessary analyzes and taking into account individual characteristics, in order to, without causing harm, reduce the acidity in the stomach.

3 Medical therapy

The following are drugs that reduce the acidity of the secret of the stomach:

Medicines from the category antihistamines- Ranitidine, Famotidine, Kvamatel. These are drugs with a relatively low cost, but their long-term use is excluded, since they affect the normal production of hormones.

Able to reduce the production of hydrochloric acid Controloc, Omeprazole, Nolpaza.

Drugs that effectively lower the acidity of the stomach - antacids - neutralize excess acid. Among medications Maalox, Almagel, Phosphalugel can be distinguished. Magnesia, the usual soda and chalk, kaolin and other agents have an antacid effect.

Motilium and Domidon help to easily move food from the stomach into the intestines and will also be useful in the fight against the disease.

In some cases, enzymes (Mezim, Festal, Creon) and probiotics are additionally prescribed in order to restore the flora of the mucous membrane.

It is important to note that in parallel with the chosen treatment, the specialist should advise taking enveloping preparations - Smecta, white clay, flax seed and others.

4 Traditional medicine recipes

It is very effective to eliminate excess acidity of the stomach with folk remedies. This method is very popular as many drugs can be replaced with cheaper and safe means which are easy to find and use at home.

An excellent remedy for fighting the disease is honey. It is used in different variations. For the prevention of 1 tbsp. l. dissolved in 1 tbsp. cold water and drink on an empty stomach. As a treatment for gastritis and ulcers, they drink a course - in 100 ml. warm water stir a spoonful of honey and drink a portion half an hour before each meal. Another honey is mixed with aloe juice 1: 1 and taken 3 times a day for 1 tsp. duration - 1 month.

Milk normalizes high acidity, but a single dose is indispensable - the menu should have at least 3 glasses a day.

Sea buckthorn and pumpkin seed oils can be used for any type of gastrointestinal disorder. For the effect, you need to use 1 tsp. every morning.

Means that perfectly reduce the acidity of the stomach are natural vegetable juices. Fresh potato juice (from 2-3 medium root vegetables) not only normalizes acid production, but also reduces inflammation. It is recommended to take it an hour before the first breakfast and lie down for half an hour after taking it. The course of treatment is two approaches for 10 days with a break between them of 10 days. half glass fresh juice carrots on an empty stomach also helps in combating the problem. Good juice and fresh leaves lettuce (you will need 2 tablespoons), which is drunk directly with pain. It gently "extinguishes" the acid, restores the mucous membrane, improves the efficiency of the intestines.

Herbal infusions are excellent helpers, but they will have to be done with great care, as only correctly formed fees can lower the level of hydrochloric acid:

Mint should be a temporary replacement for tea (both green and black). The composition of mint, yarrow (1 part each) and St. John's wort (2 parts) will have a greater effect.

Equal parts of dill seeds and yarrow flowers are steamed in a thermos in a ratio of 1 tbsp. l. per glass of boiling water and, after cooling, taken every 3 hours, 50 gr.

Calendula - not only lowers the level of acid, but also treats complex diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, however, a stable effect of its intake can be seen only after 8 weeks. To do this, in 500 ml. water is brewed 1 liter. raw materials and the total volume are divided into 4 doses per day.

5 Proper nutrition

For people with diseases associated with increased secretion of hydrochloric acid, proper nutrition should become an integral part of life and the key to getting rid of the disease soon. A healthy diet completely eliminates foods that increase acidity, and contains as many foods as possible that reduce stomach acid. The diet should provide the body with all necessary elements and substances. The recommended cooking method is boiling, steaming, stewing.

Products to be avoided:

fatty and spicy dishes;

smoked meats and sausages;

mushrooms in all forms;

sour and salty vegetables, you can not eat them raw;

onion and garlic;

preservation and various marinades;

citrus fruits and their juice;

carbonated drinks, including non-medicinal mineral water;

alcoholic beverages, in rare cases a glass of white wine is allowed.

And what foods reduce acidity? Their list is presented below:

milk and products from it (but not fermented milk);

non-acidic baked vegetables and fruits;

eggs;

any vegetable oils and butter in a small amount;

puree soups;

pasta;

boiled lean fish and meat;

lightly dried bread and buns from lean dough;

whole grain cereals.

As can be seen from the list, the patient's diet is not very limited by products that reduce acidity. From the allowed components, you can make varied menu. By the way, a therapeutic diet for such diseases is prescribed only by a qualified doctor. He will also give recommendations on the intake of mineral waters - you should not do this on your own, since they contain many trace elements that can behave unpredictably.

For problems with stomach acidity, timely rational consultation with a gastroenterologist and principles healthy eating is an essential part of recovery. You should not close your eyes to discomfort, even if its character is not painful, because advanced disease may develop more serious complications.

Gastric acid-reducing medications and folk remedies

Combined drugs

Enveloping products

Proper nutrition

Take care of the acquisition of drugs that reduce the acidity of the stomach. necessary for everyone who has problems with an increased concentration of hydrochloric acid produced by the fundic glands. Its excess is not only the cause of heartburn, a state of discomfort in the abdomen and pain. Acid residues that have not been neutralized will lead to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, since they cause at least inflammation of the mucous membranes (gastritis), but in the future they cause the formation of erosions and ulcers not only in the stomach, but also in the esophagus, and in 12 - duodenal ulcer.

Today, the pharmaceutical industry produces a wide range of products to restore the acid-base balance in the stomach. The intake of any of them must be agreed with the doctor, since gastrointestinal diseases are caused not only by the action of hydrochloric acid. Ailments may have other prerequisites, including the predominance of an alkaline environment in the stomach. Of course, in this case, acid-reducing drugs can be harmful.

Types of drugs for high acidity

Pharmacological agents for the treatment of diseases caused by excess acid are divided into 4 groups:

antacids that neutralize HCl,

adsorbers (excess gas and acid absorbers);

enveloping agents that protect mucous membranes from exposure to aggressive environments;

combined, combining the properties of the above species.

Combined drugs

These include Almagel. The main form of release of this drug is a suspension (Almagel, Almagel A, Almagel Neo), but it is also produced in tablets (Almagel T).

Almagel is prescribed for the treatment of:

chronic and acute gastritis;

heartburn and inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis);

stomach and duodenal ulcers.

The drug can be used both during remission (Almagel) and during exacerbation of the disease (Almagel A). The composition of the latter includes anesthesin, which eliminates pain symptoms. Other forms of the drug are produced to provide the patient with the convenience of taking it.

Similar properties with Almagel A have another combined medicine - Maalox. In addition to reducing acidity, absorbing inflammatory substances and enveloping the walls of the stomach, Maalox relieves pain in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for several hours. Maalox is taken both in the phase of exacerbation of the disease, and during remission. The medicine can also be used healthy people, in which the imbalance of acid and alkali resulted from:

taking pharmacological agents;

excessive consumption of nicotine, coffee or alcohol;

unbalanced diet.

Maalox is available in the form of tablets and suspensions. In spite of high efficiency the drug, it should be taken with caution, since with its overdose, phosphorus is excreted from the body. The duration of the course of taking Maalox should not exceed? month.

Gastrofarm (Gastropharm) - almost 1/3 of the composition of this drug is protein. In addition to it, the product contains sucrose and dried lactobacilli. The remedy is used in the exacerbation phase:

stomach and duodenal ulcers;

gastritis.

There are no contraindications to the use of Gastrofarm, except for its individual intolerance. At the same time, the drug relieves pain, normalizes the function of the gastrointestinal tract and helps to restore the cells of the gastric and duodenal mucosa.

Another combination drug is Gastal. After taking it, excess acid is neutralized almost instantly, and the acidity of gastric juice is maintained within normal limits for 2 hours. Gastal envelops the walls of the organ and activates the processes of their recovery. There are restrictions on its use by women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Antacids and adsorbents

absorbable;

non-absorbable.

The second includes many combined drugs. Among them are the agents described above, which reduce acidity in the stomach by long time, are not absorbed blood vessels leave the body, removing toxins with them.

Absorbable antacids have a short duration of action. At the end of the action, the acid is produced again. In addition, this type of drugs:

enters the circulatory system;

can form insoluble compounds deposited in the kidneys and other organs;

forms gases leading to bloating and belching;

increases blood pressure;

contributes to violations of bowel movements (constipation).

The most famous antacid is baking soda. Taking it during an attack of gastritis or heartburn, the patient can get rid of pain, however, with regular intake or excess dosage of the agent, the walls of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum will already be affected by an alkaline environment, and in a destructive way.

Burnt magnesia also belongs to the absorbed preparations. Being an active neutralizer of acids, it is also used when they enter the gastrointestinal tract from the outside. Burnt magnesia is part of first aid kits in chemical industries.

Rennie tablets also belong to the group of absorbable antacids.

Patients taking this drug should be aware that it is only a short-term remedy. pain symptoms, same as soda.

"Bright" representative of adsorbing agents - Activated carbon. Its tablets and powder can be taken not only to bind toxins or absorb gases, but also to reduce the level of acidity in the stomach.

With increased acidity, kaolin (white clay) can also be taken. Together with the adsorption of acid and gases, it envelops the mucous membranes of the organ, protecting them from contact with an acidic environment. However, this remedy promotes the formation of stones.

Enveloping products

Enveloping remains the safest for health folk remedies:

potato starch;

flax seeds;

roots of marshmallow, orchis spotted and two-leafed love.

Starch is added to most medicines for the treatment of stomach diseases, but it can be used as an independent remedy. He is in potato juice, which is obtained after pressing grated potatoes.

You can prepare an enveloping preparation by diluting starch in a glass of water. An infusion of flaxseed in water is effective in protecting the gastric mucosa. It also has antimicrobial and analgesic effects. Althea infusion, in addition to enveloping the walls, relieves inflammation and anesthetizes.

Herbal remedies for high acid levels

Helps in regulating normal acidity and herbs. Safely for the body lowers the level of HCl in the stomach:

chamomile;

St. John's wort;

plantain;

Hypericum perforatum;

centaury;

mint;

knotweed;

caraway.

More effective means against high acid levels there will be infusions of several herbs. As a rule, to normalize the secretory function of the gastrointestinal tract, they should be taken within 2-3 weeks.

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Proper nutrition

To maintain the acid-base balance at the proper level, one should not rely only on drugs. It is important to support correct mode nutrition and eat only those foods that do not activate the formation of excess HCl.

It is necessary to exclude from the diet:

fried food;

sour vegetables, fruits and herbs;

marinades, hot sauces and spices;

fatty, smoked foods;

pickles;

dairy products and spicy cheeses;

spirits and coffee;

sweet flour.

You will have to give up foods rich in fiber. They normalize the work of the intestines, but they put too much stress on the stomach.

Food should be steamed. It can be boiled or last resort bake. Do not consume too hot or cold foods and drinks. As for the latter, it is worth remembering the starch on which jelly is prepared. They will be useful for the digestive tract. With increased acidity of gastric juice, it is recommended carrot juice. You can drink milk, eat milk porridge and cottage cheese, dark bread, boiled low-fat chicken and fish. It is better to bake or steam vegetables and fruits before eating.

Medicines for high stomach acid

In modern pharmacies, you can find all kinds of medicines for increased acidity of the stomach. Many may think what could be dangerous in this disease, because in addition to unpleasant sensations, this disease no longer causes other inconveniences to a person.

An excessive amount of hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach can provoke a number of dangerous diseases that require serious treatment even in a hospital. It can be gastritis, gastroduodenitis, peptic ulcer, erosive damage to the walls of the stomach.

All people suffering from this disease must know how to treat the increased acidity of the stomach at the very beginning of its occurrence. Modern pharmaceutical companies produce whole line drugs that reduce stomach acid. It can be a variety of tablets, capsules, suspensions, herbal preparations, etc.

Treatment of increased acidity of the stomach is prescribed by a doctor. He will prescribe drugs that treat this disease, which are highly effective.

All these drugs can be divided into groups:

antacids that neutralize the action of hydrogen chloride;

a group of neutralizers of gas and excessive acidity in the stomach (adsorbent drugs);

enveloping drugs that lower the acidity of the stomach;

combined.

Antacids

Distinguish between absorbable and non-absorbable antacids. Absorbable antacids are short-acting and cannot for a long time treat high stomach acid. Having in their composition substances that enter into a neutralization reaction with hydrochloric acid, they are mainly intended for temporary relief of discomfort.

The most famous representative of such drugs is baking soda. Taking it for heartburn or during an attack of acute gastritis. you can really feel relief, but with long-term use soda can begin to destroy the integrity of the walls of the stomach and duodenum. After taking soda, bloating and belching sometimes occur.

Burnt magnesia, being a suction antacid, is actively used to treat heartburn.

The main drugs of short-term action include Reni. Only 1 tablet of Reni is able to relieve a severe attack of heartburn, however, not for a long period. Non-absorbable antacids include most combination drugs.

Adsorbents

These drugs are also used as stomach acid reducers. One of the most popular adsorbents is activated carbon. In the form of tablets or powder, it is taken to reduce the acidity of the stomach, with food poisoning, flatulence, etc.

White clay, having an enveloping effect, is also considered an excellent absorbent remedy with strong gas formation, high acidity and ulcers. In the form of a powder, it can be used as an external agent for burns of various forms.

Combined drugs

One of the most popular and effective drugs combined nature in the treatment of increased acidity of the stomach is Almagel. It neutralizes the action of hydrochloric acid and bile, enveloping the stomach, creating a protective film against destructive substances. There are 2 dosage forms of the drug: suspension for oral administration and coated tablets. It is used to treat many diseases: including stomach ulcers, different forms gastritis, conditions after poisoning, heartburn, etc.

similar operating effect the combined drug Maalox also possesses. It has a choleretic, antacid, adsorbent, enveloping action on the stomach. It is an excellent neutralizer of hydrochloric acid, reduces excessive amounts of gastric juice. Maalox is an excellent treatment for exacerbation of gastritis, duodenitis, ulcers, erosions.

Gastrofarm is a drug of the combined group. It has active substances that protect the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines. It has a high gastroprotective effect, restores the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, regulates the microflora. These stomach acid-reducing drugs have an almost immediate effect.

Enveloping products

The use of enveloping agents gives a good and quick result in the treatment of increased acidity of the stomach, heartburn, gastritis, colitis, and mucosal burns. Enveloping drugs mostly natural in nature, having starch or starchy substances in their composition. They are not absorbed by the stomach and do not enter the bloodstream. Use to reduce acidity, gastritis and ulcers gives an instant relief and analgesic effect. A coating agent is a common remedy for high stomach acid.

The safest for health enveloping means are:

potato and corn starch (for the treatment of the stomach, it can be taken as an independent remedy in the form of an infusion obtained by diluting starch in water);

liquorice root;

comfrey;

roots of marshmallow and orchis spotted (infusion relieves inflammation and anesthetizes).

In any case, before taking any medication, you should listen to the instructions of your doctor.

Herbal preparations and decoctions

In addition to the main pharmaceuticals for patients with high acidity, gastroenterologists prescribe the use of various herbal infusions.

The most effective are infusions of several types of herbs.

These medicinal herbs include:

• chamomile ordinary;
• calendula;
• yarrow;
• celandine;
• peppermint;
• marsh cudweed;
• blooming Sally;

In a variety of sources, you can also search for ancient recipes for herbal decoctions used for diseases and violations of the integrity of the mucous membrane of the stomach and organs of the gastrointestinal tract and can increase the efficiency of these organs. Herbal infusions- lovely natural medicines from increased acidity of the stomach.

Pharmacodynamics of herbs

Scientists have not yet experimentally proved how to treat increased acidity of the stomach with the help of herbs and how exactly the chemical composition of various medicinal herbs in a positive way affects the lowering of hyperacidity in the stomach. Research is ongoing. It is known that the cells responsible for the production of hydrochloric acid in the body react to the components of the composition of the medicinal plant.

Even the ancient cavemen began to use medicinal plants for beneficial influence on the body and for the treatment of various diseases. It is proved that all the chemical components of plants - alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, essential oils, macro- and microelements - have therapeutic effect on human organs.

Medications to reduce stomach acid

Often in people suffering from problems with the gastrointestinal tract, there is also an increased content of hydrochloric acid in the gastric juice, it is for this that it is necessary special preparations with increased acidity. Quite often, this situation is observed with gastritis and is accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms. You should not endure, it is necessary to start therapy as soon as the first signs of hyperacidity appear.

Symptoms of the disease

With gastritis with high acidity in the stomach, the following symptoms are observed:

• pain in the epigastric region, aggravated by the feeling of hunger, this is due to the fact that hydrochloric acid enters the duodenum and acts on its walls;
• constant heartburn in the esophagus;
• heaviness in the abdomen and bloating after meals, even if it was light and non-greasy;
• problems with digestion of food, the occurrence of constipation or, conversely, severe diarrhea;
• burning in the stomach, discomfort and pain;
• decreased appetite;
• nausea and vomiting, especially if the patient has eaten a lot of fermented milk food.

Unpleasant sensations and pain contribute to a decrease in the patient's mood, he is depressed and apathetic.

If the patient has chronic gastritis, then it may not appear for a long time, but on gastrointestinal tract factors such as:

• severe stress;
• binge eating;
• malnutrition
• poisoning;
• drinking alcohol in large doses;
• irregular meals.

Each factor that increases acidity in the stomach can cause an exacerbation of the disease.

The mechanism of action of drugs

In order to effectively reduce high level acids, numerous preparations have been developed that differ slightly in the principle of action, but they all perfectly help gastritis with high acidity.

In order to determine the principle of action that acid-reducing drugs have, it is important to understand how HCl (or hydrochloric acid) is initially produced in the stomach cavity. The substance is created by parietal cells and helps not only to digest, but also to disinfect food. The pyloric part of the stomach and lining tissues stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid, and also trigger motility in the organ.

The remedy for hyperacidity of the stomach is mainly directed to those parts of the digestive organ in which HCl is secreted. Other drugs that reduce acidity stimulate the formation of mucus in the cells, which is able to bind to acid and neutralize it.

In general, two main groups can be distinguished medicines, which can be used to treat high acidity:

• drugs that reduce stomach acidity and regulate cell activity;
• medicines that slow down the process of excretion of a substance.

The choice of a specific remedy is possible after consultation with a gastroenterologist.

Agents to reduce the activity of acid-producing cells

Such drugs for hyperacidity are divided into two main groups.

The first group of funds is aimed at eliminating unpleasant symptoms and "quenching" the acid in the composition of gastric juice.

The impact of antacids is based on the following principles:

• neutralization of hydrochloric acid, as a result of which the burning sensation in the esophagus decreases, the stomach stops hurting;
• absorption harmful substances drug components;
• soft enveloping of the walls of the stomach and intestines in order to protect them from the aggressive effects of gastric juice;
• stimulating effect on the process of bicarbonate synthesis, which helps cells form mucus and neutralize the caustic substance.

Alginates differ slightly in their effect on digestive organ. Usually, such a remedy for increased acidity of the stomach is not aimed at relieving symptoms and neutralizing the acid, but at forming a protective film.

Their principle of operation is as follows:

• adsorption of hydrochloric acid, which binds to the components of the drug, and its subsequent removal - this helps to significantly reduce its concentration in gastric juice;
• the film formed as a result of enveloping protects the organ from the appearance of ulcers and erosions;
• the substances that make up the drug help improve immunity, as a result of which the stomach copes better with an excess of acid.

Among these drugs, the most well-known remedies are Gaviscon, Laminal, and potassium and sodium alginates.

Their advantage is that they have almost no contraindications, so they are allowed even during pregnancy.

Medications to reduce acid production

In the event that alginates and antacids did not have the desired effect, and the concentration of gastric juice could not be reduced, it is necessary to act directly on the process of acid production.

Such drugs to reduce acidity are divided into 2 varieties:

1. Blocking H2-histamine receptors.
2. Inhibitors proton pump.

Tablets belonging to the first group act as follows:

by blocking histamine, which stimulates the production of acid, such a drug can reduce its concentration;

the substance ceases to be produced at the sight and smell of food, which occurs under normal circumstances;

under the influence of the drug, more mucus is produced, which can protect the stomach and relieve discomfort.

Receptor blockers include famotidine and ranitidine.

Substances that slow down the proton pump act differently: they act on the final stage of excretion of a substance by acid-producing cells and protect the mucosa. Typical representatives- Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole.

What to pay attention to

Do not think that burning and pain in the stomach is a harmless process, it can pass by itself. This is often a sign of more serious illnesses, therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor who knows exactly how to treat the increased acidity of the stomach.

Drugs that lower the acidity of the stomach (and the means of all of the above groups) cannot be taken uncontrollably, the gastroenterologist must describe a detailed regimen.

The rules are:

Antacids to reduce acidity are not intended to be taken for a course of more than two weeks, since they greatly disrupt the water-salt balance.

It is important for pregnant women to know what medications they can take for hyperacidity, as there may be contraindications.

Children under the age of 14 cannot be prescribed treatment using certain groups of medications.

Sometimes, in the presence of diseases of the stomach, the body can increase the amount of hydrochloric acid produced, so it is very important to find "your" medication that will relieve unpleasant symptoms and properly treat the digestive organ. But balance is also important in this matter, since a reduced level of a substance can lead to the opposite situation - underdigestion and disorders of the digestive system.

Everything requires moderation and a properly planned treatment plan that will help reduce the concentration of gastric juice and alleviate the patient's condition, relieving him of heartburn, pain and discomfort in the epigastrium.

Decreased stomach acid

Thousands of interconnected processes are constantly taking place in the human body. Even a slight violation in one of them will affect all the others, knocking down the usual rhythm of the functioning of the human body.

Some deviations from the norm in the stomach will lead to disruption of the entire digestive tract. Hydrochloric acid is the main component of gastric juice. It is she who helps the digestive process to go smoothly, and food safely moves through all parts of the digestive tract.

What is the danger of low acidity

Decreased acidity disturbs the established balance. This may be a sign of already developing serious ailments. Even if low acidity does not yet cause special problems and is not accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, in itself its presence is dangerous.

First, hydrochloric acid performs many functions, including bactericidal action gastric juice. If it is produced less than normal, it can freely enter the gastrointestinal tract with food pathogenic microorganisms. They can disrupt the balance of the intestinal microflora and cause inflammation of the mucous membrane, infectious processes. Against this background, unpleasant pathologies appear and develop more often.

Secondly, the acid forms an appropriate environment that promotes the action of gastric juice enzymes. With a decrease in acidity, their activation does not occur. Enzymes remain in an inactive form, and proteins in the stomach are no longer digested normally. Fermentation processes occur in the gastrointestinal tract, which are accompanied by pain, flatulence and other unpleasant manifestations.

Thirdly, incomplete digestion of proteins is accompanied by the accumulation in the stomach of intermediate decay products that have a toxic effect on the body. All this eventually leads to a decrease in immunity and to more serious diseases.

Reduced acidity of the stomach is undesirable for the body and needs to be treated. But first you need to determine the causes of its occurrence and prevent the consequences, or at least minimize them.

Causes of a decrease in the acidity of the stomach

A decrease in the concentration of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice can occur under the influence of factors that are combined into two groups.

I. External:

Wrong eating habits and behavior:
Undernourishment and overeating. A poor diet that is too low in protein and plant food, rich in vitamins and fiber. After all, it is this food that normalizes intestinal motility. Prolonged abstinence from eating. Plentiful dinners shortly before sleep. Starvation. Unbalanced and uncontrolled diet.

Painful addiction to alcoholic beverages. An excess of ethanol entering the body disrupts the balance in it, its metabolic processes. The impact of drugs. Some medications, such as painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal drugs, antibiotics, have side effect- irritate and damage the tissue of the stomach. Worm infestations, that is, the invasion of the body of worms. Decreased stomach acid is only the beginning of the problems that these organisms bring with them. chronic stress, constant emotional overstrain also negatively affect the production of gastric juice of the correct acidity.

II. Internal:

Genetic predisposition to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Duodenogastric reflux (DGR) - is the throwing of what is contained in the duodenum into the stomach. The result is irritation of the mucous membrane and a decrease in the acidity of the stomach. Autoimmune processes are diseases caused by the destruction of the body's defenses. The immune system does not recognize its own tissues and considers them foreign. The process of their damage and destruction starts. Occur in the body systemic reactions, internal intoxication, part of which is a decrease in acidity. Pathologies endocrine system and disruption of metabolic processes.

Reduced acidity of the stomach: symptoms

Decreased stomach acid indicates possible appearance pathologies in the body. This is one of the symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases. At the same time, a decrease in the level of acid also manifests itself with certain symptoms:

Stomach ache. They appear a short time after each snack. Belching. resulting from involuntary or arbitrary ingestion of food from the stomach or air into the oral cavity. It has a characteristic rotten smell. Unpleasant things can remain in the mouth for a long time. putrid stench . >Heartburn- Burning sensation in the upper part of the throat. Discomfort may begin in the sternum and move upward from the epigastric region along the esophagus. Flatulence- a manifestation of too much accumulation of gases in the digestive tract. It is characterized by sensations of distension of the abdomen from the inside, bloating, rumbling, especially in horizontal position, hiccups. Cramping pains are also possible, which disappear without a trace after the release of gases. Intestinal disorder. Constipation may appear - stool retention for more than two days. Diarrhea often accompanies low acidity.

Reduced acidity contributes to the fact that signs of anemia appear in the body:

Hair becomes dull and dry. They grow back very slowly and fall out more. The ends of the hair are split and thinned. Dry skin forces you to constantly use moisturizers. It is difficult to grow nails, they are very brittle and prone to delamination. A rash appears on the skin, including acne, spots.

If the situation is not corrected, then soon:

Decreased hemoglobin, which causes general weakness and loss of strength. The development of intracellular hypoxia is provoked: tissues lack oxygen.

As a result, the brain can react with mental disorders.

As a rule, the symptoms of low acidity do not appear all at once. But even the presence of several of them should alert and become a reason to contact a specialist.

Acidity Treatment

Modern methods of examination are able to accurately and almost painlessly determine the acidity of the stomach and determine the direction of treatment. It consists of medication and diet.

Prescribe gastric enzymes and natural gastric juice. Appoint antibacterial drugs and agents for the treatment of acid-dependent diseases, which are called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Of course, only a doctor sets them. The same applies to medical nutrition.

What will be included in the diet and how long it will last depends on the characteristics of the individual individual. Its composition is formed in such a way as to provide the body with all the nutrients and cover the daily norm of trace elements and vitamins.

The diet can last from a month to several years. Its main task is to activate the digestive processes.

Prolonged chewing of food. Each piece must be actively processed with teeth. And the meal as a whole should last about thirty minutes. Half an hour before meals, you need to drink mineral water (glass). The diet should include steamed fruits and vegetables. Be sure to eat boiled meat: lean veal and poultry. The fish must be boiled or baked. Mucous soups and cereals, such as oatmeal and buckwheat, will also help bring acidity back to normal. Drinks will benefit: berry compotes, kissels, fresh fruit juices, tea. It is necessary to exclude the use of products that can provoke fermentation in the stomach: milk, White bread, muffin, cream and sour cream. About hot spices and spices to forget. Food should be warm, not hot or cold. It is advisable to consume freshly prepared meals, since food reheated additionally is not recommended.

Gives a positive result and physiotherapy. Mineral water and special herbal preparations can have a positive effect on bringing acidity back to normal.

Folk remedies to help increase acidity

Traditional medicine has retained most of the effective and time-tested recommendations.

Our ancestors left several recipes that use wormwood. Here is some of them:

Pour two tablespoons of wormwood flowers into a bowl and pour boiling water (0.5 l). Leave closed and filter after one and a half to two hours. Drink an infusion of a quarter cup half an hour before meals. Wormwood tea: a teaspoon of finely chopped wormwood flowers and roots is poured into a small teapot. Steep boiling water is also poured in here. Infuse the drink for fifteen minutes and apply in the same way as the infusion. Mix wormwood flowers, chamomile, yarrow herb, peppermint and sage leaves in equal amounts. Separate two teaspoons, place in a bowl and pour a glass of boiling water. Strain after about half an hour and drink in equal portions in three divided doses. The first dose is on an empty stomach.

You can prepare such decoctions:

Place a tablespoon with a slide of elecampane in a saucepan. Pour boiling water (0.250 l). The herb should boil for another thirty minutes. Take a decoction of a tablespoon before meals. Collect a small cup of viburnum berries, place in a saucepan. Pour in enough water to cover the berries and bring to a boil. Boil for another five minutes, strain after an hour. Viburnum broth drink three times a day, two sips after a meal. It should not be heated.

Horseradish juice, freshly squeezed, helps to normalize acidity. It is also useful to eat a teaspoon of grated product before a meal, adding sugar or honey.

There are many other traditional medicine recipes. The main thing is to choose the one that will give the desired results. But all infusions, teas and decoctions must be taken after consulting a doctor so as not to worsen the situation.

Low acidity is a symptom of many gastrointestinal diseases. The reasons for its decline should be identified as quickly as possible and not neglect the advice of a doctor.

The treatment is carried out with medication, physiotherapy is used and a diet is prescribed. After the condition of the body has returned to normal, it is necessary to continue to eat properly and prevent relapse.