Hyperacidity In Children

Of late, my twelve-year-old daughter had been complaining of stomach aches. And based on her description, I’m positive the aches are caused by hyperacidity. She had been diagnosed with hyperacidity when she was much younger, and she had been pain-free for many years. Until now.

Well, based on first-hand experience – I have hyperacidity, too – hyperacidity can be a recurring malady.

I know somebody who has hyperacidity whose mother got it. So putting two and two together – don’t trust my math skills if you have any sense in you – I’m beginning to think hyperacidity can be passed on from mother to daughter, too.

Be warned though that bowel problems, such as diarrhea and constipation in younger children, may be mistaken for hyperacidity. It is best, therefore, to consult a pediatrician or gastroenterologist to get a proper diagnosis.

What I think is causing my daughter's hyperacidity

• Stress. Stress, even in adults, causes the stomach to release excessive acid. Being a consistent honor student since day one of her formal schooling, now that she’s in high school, my daughter is having a hard time understanding some of her math lessons, and the pressure of not being included in the honor roll for the first time in her scholastic life is probably taking its toll on her. 
• Spicy and acidic foods. Spicy and acidic foods are no-no for people – young and old – with hyperacidity. My daughter loves spicy food, just like her father, who fortunately does not have hyperacidity. 

Other causes of hyperacidity in children

• Skipping of meals. Skipping of meals, especially breakfast, is a big mistake. 
• Too much junk food, sweets and soda. Most children, unless properly supervised, don’t care what they eat as long as the food tastes good. 
• Food additives. One scientific study confirmed that food additives can cause hyperacidity in children. 
• Obesity. According to a U.S. study, obesity in children is one of the main causes of heartburn, also a hyperacidity symptom. 

What to do

• Adjust the child’s diet. There are foods that no doubt cause excessive acid in the stomach. Topping the list are acidic fruits and juices, such as lemon, orange and pomelo. Too much sweets can also cause hyperacidity, especially on an empty stomach. Also, try reducing his heavy meat intake with easier-to-digest vegetables and potatoes. Apples, bananas and watermelon are good for hyperacidity, too. 
• Consider the level of stress the child faces daily and try to make some adjustments. I probably am expecting too much from my daughter, being the eldest and only girl. This has to change, of course. 
• Ensure that your child gets enough rest. Cranky children are oftentimes the sleep-derived ones. Too much TV watching and computer gaming can disrupt a normal night’s sleep, especially if your child wakes up at night disturbed by nightmares. 
• Take the time to laugh. A healthy dose of good, clean fun with a child’s parents can cause wonders to a child’s health. 

Final word of caution, never give antacids to children six years and under unless required by a doctor.

Note: This post is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute for advice from a qualified medical practitioner.

Source: medsavailable.com and mayoclinic.com