Gastroesophageal reflux, also called acid reflux, occurs when stomach contents back up into the lower esophageal sphincter after you eat. The acid in the stomach contents then causes pain and discomfort. If acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. While medications can treat the condition, natural remedies can help, too. Before using any, though, check with your physician to make the heartburn is not related to other medical conditions, and that the natural remedies are appropriate for you.
Lifestyle Changes
The most important step patients can take to reduce heartburn, or acid reflux, is to change certain behaviors that cause the condition. Doctors at the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse say that lifestyle changes can prevent and remedy acid reflux. Avoiding food that causes the problem can reduce the number of episodes. Spicy and fried foods often irritate sensitive stomachs and cause the acid to back up. Obesity is a major contributor to acid reflux, so it you're overweight, consider a diet and exercise program to lose weight. Smokers should quit because the smoke irritates the stomach. Reducing the size of portions and eating five or six times a day can ease the symptoms. Loose-fitting clothing allows the stomach to function better, and can help to alleviate heartburn. People who suffer from acid reflux should remain upright for at least three hours after eating.
OTC Medication
Over-the-counter medications can help to reduce acid reflux, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. You can treat mild symptoms with products that contain magnesium, aluminum and calcium--basic salts that, when combined with bicarbonate or hydroxide, neutralize acid in the stomach. Short-term relief for those who are close to developing GERD is available through over-the-counter medications that contain H2 blockers to decrease acid production.
Alternative Medicine
Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that stress-relieving remedies can help to reduce acid reflux. That's because stress and tension can cause heartburn and increase the production of stomach acid. Relaxation remedies include massage techniques such as Swedish massage, which employs gentle strokes and rubbing to ease tension. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils that when mixed with water for calming teas or blended in candles can calm the nerves. Other alternatives that Mayo Clinic doctors recommend to relieve stress include guided imagery, deep breathing, yoga and hypnosis. Moderate exercise, such as cycling or walking, can reduce heartburn, while vigorous exercise, such as running or aerobics, can worsen symptoms.
