Gaviscon vs. Other Antacids: A Tamil Nadu User’s Guide

Acidity or acid reflux is a frequently occurring health condition in India, including states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Delhi. Many people across these and other states in India experience acidity and its related symptoms, like gas, bloating, indigestion and heartburn, primarily due to their regional cuisines.
Most dishes in these states, specifically Tamil Nadu, are made from a blend of spices and oils that can trigger excessive stomach acid production. Furthermore, sedentary lifestyle and excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine are other primary factors leading to rising cases of acidity in Tamil Nadu.
Having moved to Tamil Nadu recently for work purposes, I was not far from being inflicted by acidity, the most common digestive issue in the state. Here, I give a detailed account of my condition, how it occurred, its symptoms and a comparison of Gaviscon vs. other antacids enumerating why Gaviscon is the best antacid in Tamil Nadu.
Acidity: Everything about the Condition and How It Occur
The kind of acid reflux I experienced initially felt like a burning sensation or pain in my lower chest cavity. With bouts of acidity becoming a regular occurrence in my life, I decided to visit a general practitioner.
According to the expert, acidity is caused due to overproduction of stomach acid that rises up into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach.
According to the doctor, my unhealthy eating practices and poor diet were the main causes of acidity. I was at an increased risk of suffering from chronic acidity due to the following factors:
- Extensive consumption of spicy and oily meals.
- Obesity
- Eating non-vegetarian meals frequently.
- Living a sedentary life devoid of proper exercises or even basic movement.
I was prompt to understand that since I was living alone in Tamil Nadu with nobody to take care of my regular diet, acidity had become a major health complication for me. So, I decided to find the best acidity treatment in Tamil Nadu while also working on arranging healthier meals and living an active life at work and home.
Acidity Symptoms That I Experienced
Acidity symptoms I experienced regularly include:
- Burning sensation in the throat.
- Nausea, typically feeling queasy and always having a vomiting tendency.
- Difficulty in eliminating waste.
- Foul breath
- Unsettling feelings and trouble sleeping.
My doctor advised that if left untreated, my acidity would become more severe and lead to major complications. While the first line of defense was lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, he strictly recommended the use of antacids for instant acidity relief.
Initially, I tried antacids, like Gelusil and Digene, only to find relief for a shorter duration. On finding more recommendations and depending on word of mouth from other users, I switched to Gaviscon, and I must say it was an informed decision. Here’s why:
Gaviscon in Tamil Nadu: Why I Recommend Gaviscon Over Other Antacids?
Here, I will be comparing Gaviscon vs. other antacids, making it easier for you to understand why Gaviscon is better than other antacids widely used for acidity relief across Tamil Nadu.
Gaviscon, a popular antacid, is often compared to other options, like Gelusil, Digene and Eno for indigestion and heartburn management. Gaviscon works by forming a protective raft over irritating stomach contents, preventing them from rising up into the esophagus. It also neutralizes stomach acid and relieves discomfort, within 3 minutes of consumption. Other antacids offer similar relief but through different mechanisms. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Mechanism of Action
- Sodium alginate in Gaviscon creates a raft that prevents irritating stomach contents from flowing back to the esophagus.
- Other antacids only work on stomach acid neutralization.
Key Ingredients
- Besides Sodium Alginate, Gaviscon contains antacids, like sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate for stomach acid neutralization.
- Other antacids typically contain magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide.
Duration of Relief
- The protective raft formed by Gaviscon can last for up to 4 years, 2xs longer than regular antacids in the market.
- The duration of relief by other antacids can vary depending on specific dosage.
Versatility
- Gaviscon is the world’s number one antacid, suitable for people of all ages, including children above 12, breastfeeding and pregnant mothers.
- Other antacids may be useful based on specific situations.
My Verdict
I personally prefer Gaviscon over other antacids for its ability to offer fast relief from acidity and other related symptoms, like gas, bloating and indigestion. I find its peppermint flavor appealing and must say that regular use of Gaviscon even healed my digestive system from its very roots. Nevertheless, I would suggest consulting a doctor before starting with the use of this antacid.
What's Your Reaction?






