What is antacids ?

Are you also one of those who suffer from heartburn, bloating and other stomach problems after eating your favourite food? Are you tired of feeling uncomfortable most times? Well, worry no more as antacids are here to save the day! No more fearing food or missing out on parties for fear it will cause indigestion.
But what exactly are antacids and how do they work in our body? We’ll get into that soon but first things first.

What are some common symptoms of acid reflux?

Acid reflux, a condition caused by excess stomach acid production, can be quite unnerving considering its effects which include:

  • Heartburn
  • Chest pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bloating

With these discomforts looming over us, let’s find out what we can do about them with “winks“.

How do Antacids work?

Antacids contain active ingredients like aluminum hydroxide, magnesium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate that neutralize stomach acids present in our digestive system. So when we take an antacid after experiencing any kind of gastrointestinal problem, we’re essentially reducing the pH level in our gut which helps alleviate indigestion and reduce inflammation levels around it.

Antacids lower the acidity level in our digestive tract causing relief from unpleasant sensations such as nausea-vomit reflexes and regurgitation because nothing feels worse than giving scenery glasses to somebody I tell you!

Types of Antacid

There are four major types of antacid available today including:

  1. Sodium bicarbonate – Works quickly but isn’t suitable for long-term use due to high levels of sodium content. This is a value-added fact since many people seem to overlook the presence or absence of sodium.
  2. Calcium carbonate – Needs doses that aren’t too frequent while providing lasting relief.
  3. Aluminum hydroxide – Has a constipating effect so be sure to eat enough fiber or you might have trouble behind the scenes with heightened theatrics.
  4. Magnesium hydroxide – Great for relieving indigestion but can cause diarrhea when abused.

Ingested Antacids also come in different forms such as liquids, tablets and gummies among others.

When should I take an Antacid?

Antacids are recommended if your symptoms persist even after making changes to your diet like avoiding spicy or acidic foods along with exercising regularly.

Self medication, however, isn’t advisable especially for people with pre-existing health conditions that cause impaired organ function. However it is safe to use this product because strictly speaking; An antacid prescription from the doctor is not always required.

Who shouldn’t take antacids?

Antacid usage could pose health risks particularly for people suffering from underlying medical conditions, eating disorders or who are under certain medication which may react poorly like:

  1. Kidney disease
  2. Liver dysfunction
  3. Hypertension
  4. Chronic fat Loss

It’s good practice therefore to consult a professional first before taking any kind of medicine let alone an antacid.

How often can I consume Antacids?

While consuming these “superheroes” aka “ALKA-Seltzer” again and again might provide relief instantaneously, those actions only result in another problem altogether- unless you’re into unplanned bowel movements resulting from overconsumption of magnesium hydroxides!

Within 24 hours one should limit their consumption based on dosage as detailed by doctors until the entire course has been completed specially seen we want to avoid potential heartburn brewing colon irritation.This requires self-discipline since indigestion signals will keep coming back every time they’re ignored otherwise.

Conclusion

So there you have it folks! A comprehensive piece on what exactly “antacids” are and how they help alleviate gastrointestinal problems we may face every now and then. With their use, all of us can eat our favourite foods without a care in the world providing literally relief from discomfort both physically and mentally leading to better long term health management.

So why hold back on life’s indulgences when you’ve got antacids by your side? Have fun eating!

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