Reflux is a common stomach problem. If you suffer from reflux, then you know how uncomfortable, even painful, it can be. There are many medications, both prescribed and over the counter, that you can take for reflux. There is also a home remedy that can help relieve reflux and you may have it in your refrigerator: vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is the recommended vinegar for heartburn.
Causes
Heartburn is a digestive disorder in which stomach acid will reflux back into the esophagus. It happens when the esophageal valve becomes weak. One cause of reflux is if the valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus becomes weak. Acidic stomach contents are then allowed to flow back up the esophagus and into the throat. Outside of a functional problem, certain self-induced situations--such as eating spicy food, gas-producing food or food hard to digest--can cause reflux. Other causes are going to sleep on a full stomach and wearing constrictive clothing.
Vinegar
Vinegar is typically made by oxidizing ethanol. Ethanol is the organic form of alcohol that is able to be ingested. It is found in things such as wine, beer, fermented fruit juices and other alcoholic beverages. Vinegar is used primarily for cooking. However, due to its components, it can also be used to aid in stomach issues, such as reflux. Apple cider vinegar is the vinegar recommended for reflux. According to Brenda Skidmore, who has spent the better of the past five years researching natural health care and homeopathic treatments, white vinegar is good for household use, but not good for the stomach or internal use.
Dosage
For digestive disorders, it is recommended that you take 2 tsp. three times a day. Many people who take vinegar for digestive disorders such as reflux prefer to dilute it in water. However, it is recommended that for the best results you take the vinegar alone and in a more concentrated form, without the dilution of water. For severe stomach and digestive problems, the recommended dosage is to take 2 tbsp. three times a day.
Sometimes acid reflux is caused by the stomach not over-producing acid, but the opposite. It can be caused by the stomach not producing enough acid. In these cases, it can be beneficial to take an extra dose in between meals.
Considerations
Apple cider vinegar may not be well tolerated by everyone, especially because it is very acidic once it reaches the mouth. If you have a problem taking the recommended dose, you may need to work up to it gradually. In order to work up to the higher dose, you may need to start off taking a smaller amount, but still take it three times a day.
Warnings
It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before embarking on a self-help treatment. He should follow your case and know what you are trying to accomplish when taking vinegar as a reflux treatment. If you should start to have further reflux problems while on the vinegar, your doctor will be informed, aware and better able to treat you.
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