The level of acidity helps characterize the activity of hydrogen ions. This parameter is very important for assessing the state of human health. The acidity of the gastric juice estimates the acid concentration. Deviations from the norm may indicate different health problems.
Determination of acidity of gastric juice
The neutral value of acidity is considered to be pH 7. Decrease of this value makes the gastric environment acidic, increase - alkaline. You can determine the level of acidity by different methods. The most reliable is the intragastric pH-metry. The essence of the method in determining the acidity directly in the gastrointestinal tract. Used for this purpose are special devices, called acidogastrometry. They allow for rapid measurements, estimate the daily production of acid.
Another way to assess the level of acidity of gastric juice is aspiration. Its huge drawback is that the contents from different zones of the stomach mix during the fence, because of what the result can be distorted.
How to increase the acidity of gastric juice?
To understand, that at you the acidity of a gastric juice is lowered, it is simple. The main manifestations of the problem are as follows:
- putrid odor from the mouth;
- decreased immunity;
- brittle hair ;
- dry skin of hands and face;
- rash;
- constipation, alternating with diarrhea;
- pain in the intestines;
- presence of undigested pieces of food in the stool.
The basis of treatment of a reduced level of acidity is replacement therapy. If necessary, patients are prescribed antacids . Sometimes the reason for lowering the acidity are Helicobacter bacteria, which it is rather difficult to cope with without the help of antibiotics.
How to reduce the acidity of gastric juice?
With increased acidity of the stomach, a person suffers from frequent heartburn. Other manifestations of the problem include:
- belching with a bitter taste;
- soreness in the right hypochondrium;
- burning in the chest, turning to the throat;
- pain in the stomach.
To reduce the acidity of gastric juice can be with antacids and special antisecretory medicines. Absolutely all patients in the treatment period should adhere to a strict diet. From the diet must be completely ruled out harmful food:
- fast food;
- smoked products;
- strong coffee;
- soda;
- pickles;
- sauces with a high content of vinegar.
To products that reduce the acidity of gastric juice, include:
- cereals;
- milk;
- lean meat, fish, poultry;
- sweet apples;
- boiled eggs;
- pears.