10 Home Remedies For Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux is a condition where there is a backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Individuals with acid reflux may experience chest pain, heartburn, taste of acid in the back of the mouth, bad breath, vomiting, and wearing away of the enamel of the teeth.
Those at risk for acid reflux are often individuals who are obese, smoking, pregnant, have a hiatal hernia, or are taking certain medications. Acid reflux occurs when there is poor closure of the gastroesophageal sphincter located at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach.
Treatment usually includes lifestyle changes, medications (antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor blockers, and prokinetics), and possible surgery. There are also home remedies available that may help decrease the symptoms of acid reflux.
Home Remedy #1: Ginger
Ginger root is commonly used as a spice and in folk medicine. Although there is no scientific evidence to support the use of ginger for ailments, it is traditionally used to alleviate nausea and vomiting. It is also believed that it helps relieve motion sickness, improves the immune system, increases blood circulation, wards off heart disease, and fights bacterial infections.
In this case, it is also beneficial for individuals with acid reflux. To make ginger tea, steep a few thin slices of ginger in hot water for 10 to 20 minutes.
Home Remedy #2: Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is a cohesive and soft substance that is made to be chewed without being swallowed. It is easily available in any store at an affordable price. While common and cheap, it may also be one of the best remedies for acid reflux.
A 2001 study from researchers in North Carolina found that chewing gum increases the pH in the pharynx and esophagus, which results in the reduction of acid reflux effects. This is thought to be due to the chewing gum causing the oral cavity and esophagus to be flooded with alkaline saliva, which neutralizes the acidity in the stomach. The increased production of saliva also dilutes the acidity.
Home Remedy #3: Fermented Foods
Fermented foods refer to foods that are preserved or produced via the action of microorganisms. Fermentation occurs when there is conversion of sugar to alcohol using yeast or lactobacillus. Some examples of fermented foods include yogurt, kimchi, pickles, miso, natto, kombucha, and sauerkraut.
Fermented foods contain beneficial probiotics that are good for the gastrointestinal tract. There is evidence that the consumption of foods with probiotics can help protect the stomach lining and prevent or reduce acid reflux.
Home Remedy #4: Baking Soda
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is a chemical compound that is a white crystalline. It often appears as fine white powder. It can be used as a home remedy for the treatment of indigestion and heartburn as its reaction with stomach acid leads to the production of carbon dioxide, salt, and water.
It is an acceptable remedy to provide occasional relief but can cause more harm than good in rare cases. The use of baking soda as a remedy for acid reflux has been reported to damage the stomach lining. However, the only fatality recorded associated with the consumption of baking soda in water was in 1939.
Home Remedy #5: Mustard
Mustard is a condiment that is made from mustard seeds obtained from the mustard plant. The seeds are mixed with lemon, water, wine, vinegar, and various other spices to form a paste or sauce.
Mustard is thought to be able to help reduce symptoms of acid reflux as it is a very alkaline food. Therefore, the consumption of mustard helps reduce the acidity in the stomach. It has been recommended that consuming as little as a teaspoon can help neutralize the acid and has the potential to bring near instant relief.
Home Remedy #6: Aloe
Aloe refers to a genus comprising of more than 500 flowering succulent plants. The most common aloe plant is aloe vera, which is widely cultivated for various purposes.
Traditionally, aloe has been used for the treatment of wounds, as a purgative, treatment of skin-related disorders, and consumed to relieve digestive discomfort. Since it is used to help soothe burns, it can also be used as a remedy for acid reflux by reducing irritation and inflammation in the esophagus and stomach.
Home Remedy #7: Almonds
Almonds often refer to the widely cultivated edible seeds of the almond tree that is native in the Mediterranean, Southern Asia, and the Middle East. Almonds can be divided into sweet and bitter almonds. Folk medicine uses extract of bitter almond. However, it has been found to have severe or lethal effects, especially in children.
Almonds are generally alkaline in nature when compared to other nuts. While there is no scientific evidence that proves the effectiveness of almonds as a remedy for acid reflux, it is widely used, and many patients have claimed to experience significant benefits from the consumption of almonds. It is best if the almonds are organic and salt-free.
Home Remedy #8: Bananas and Apples
Bananas and apples are both edible fruits. Bananas can be beneficial for individuals experiencing acid reflux as it has a pH of 5.6 and can help reduce the acidity in the stomach. Meanwhile, apples are thought to be able to relieve acid reflux symptoms due to the presence of potassium, calcium, and magnesium that can help neutralize the acidity in the stomach.
Both bananas and apples are well-known for their ability to help relieve or prevent acid reflux. However, it should be noted that in rare cases, bananas and apples can be triggers for acid reflux.
Home Remedy #9: Chamomile Tea
Chamomile refers to plants from the Asteraceae family. Two plants from this family can be used for medicinal purposes and herbal infusions. The main components found in chamomile are polyphenol compounds such as luteolin, apigenin, quercetin, and patuletin. Chamomile is currently being researched for its anti-anxiety properties.
In patients with acid reflux, chamomile tea can be beneficial as it may help balance stomach acidity. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed at night can also be soothing and promote better sleep.
Home Remedy #10: Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes are an important part in the management of acid reflux. Some foods or beverages can trigger an episode of reflux. However, it differs for each individual. Therefore, it is important for patients to track and avoid their triggers for acid reflux. This can be done by keeping a record of the foods and beverages consumed along with their daily symptoms using a food diary. Spicy foods should be avoided as it is a known trigger of acid reflux.
Other lifestyle changes include quitting smoking and losing weight. Weight loss can be greatly beneficial, especially if the affected individual is overweight. When there is excessive weight, more pressure is placed on the organs. This can cause the gastroesophageal sphincter to loosen and allow acid reflux to occur.
