What are Antacids

When you suffer from acidity, heartburn or acid reflux, the first thing you do is to pop a chalky pill (usually in attractive color) in your mouth. You are bound to get relief in a short period of time. This chalky, colorful pill is nothing but an antacid. Antacids are the most commonly and widely used medication in the whole world. They can be used by both children as well as adults and are found to be equally effective by both. Antacids are of different types: sodium antacids, magnesium antacids and calcium antacids.

What are Antacids Used For?

Antacids are bases or basic salts that help in maintaining the proper balance of pH in the body. A person suffers from acidity or heartburn when the amounts of acid in his body increases. When he consumes an antacid, the acid-base level gets balanced and the person feels better. One of the common conditions, acid reflux disease, is caused when the acid in the stomach increases resulting it to seep in the esophagus. At that time, certain types of antacids cover the esophagus so that it does not get affected by the stomach acids. In this form, antacids are found to give quick relief to those suffering from any gastrointestinal problems, related to acidity.

But then, quick relief is also followed by temporary relief. Although antacids are one of the best heartburn cures and are very effective in providing relief to people, they are meant for temporary or short-term relief. As these medications are available over-the-counter, they are not strong or effective enough to treat long term or chronic conditions. Taking antacids frequently or on a daily basis is not advisable. So one may wonder, are antacids bad for you? Then the answer is Yes and No. On a broader view, most of the antacids do not have any side effects. But then, diarrhea, headache or upset stomach are experienced by few and considered as antacids side effects. However, when taken in higher doses for a longer time, they can lead to side effects.

Are antacids safe during pregnancy? If this acid reflux medication is taken in limited amounts, they are safe, and may not cause any considerable amounts of side effects. But, it should be noted that antacids interfere with the activity of other medications and supplements and hence, one should consult the doctor before going for any antacid medication. At the same time, one should note that the long-term use of extremely high doses of antacids can lead to weakening of bones.

List of Antacids

• Alamag
• AlternaGEL
• Bell-Ans
• Bismarex
• Caltrate 600
• Citrocarbonate
• Dialume
• Di-Gel
• Equate
• Equilet
• Gaviscon
• Iosopan
• Maalox
• Mylanta
• Picot
• Prepcid AC
• Relief
• Rulox
• Titralac
• Zantac

Natural Antacids

Although antacids are relatively safer medication, if you still wish to find a healthy alternative to it, then there are certain foodstuffs that perform the function of antacids. These foodstuffs are known as natural antacids. Cold milk is considered as the best natural antacid. Having a glass of cool milk before going to bed can help in reducing acidity. Similarly, yogurt, banana, coconut water, etc. are some foods that provide relief. Including fiber in the diet also helps in the treatment and prevention of acidity and acid reflux as fibers help in binding acid in the body.

Remember, although sold over-the-counter, antacids should be taken only in utter necessity. Lastly, remember that apart from these medications, having a proper diet and following proper diet habits can help in the prevention of acid reflux and heartburn to a great extent. Take care!