Swallowing a few antacids after a spicy meal can do no harm, but don't make this a three-times-a-day habit, advises the University of Southern California. Taking too many antacids can lead to health problems.
Antacids contain calcium, magnesium, or aluminum, and while small amounts of these nutrients can be beneficial, large doses can have dangerous side effects:
- High quantities of calcium can cause kidney stones
- Too much magnesium can cause diarrhea
- Large doses of aluminum can lead to osteomalacia — a disease in which the bones become brittle and painful
Learn more in the Everyday Health GERD Center.