Acid reflux is also known as GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is a condition that is caused when acid backs up into the lower part of the esophagus, causing pain, nausea and heartburn. When acid backs up all the way to the upper part of the esophagus and mouth, a burning sensation is felt in the throat. There are a variety of prescription medications available that are used to treat acid reflux; in the worst of cases, surgery is needed. However, there are some ways to treat acid reflux naturally.
Elimination
Avoid foods that can bring on an attack of acid reflux. These include deep-fried foods, high-fat dairy products, red meat, soda and alcohol. Some fruits and vegetables that should be avoided include garlic, onions, chili peppers and citrus fruits.
Alkaline
Eat foods that keep your alkaline at the desired level. Your body's pH balance can range from 0 to 14, with zero being very acidic and 14 being very alkaline. The goal is to maintain a pH balance of around 7.5. There are many foods that can help reduce the acid in your body and maintain a healthy pH balance. These include cucumbers, celery, salad greens, sprouts, avocados, beets and broccoli.
Bedtime Protocol
Don't lie down after a meal; this allows the acid in the stomach to travel much more easily up through the esophagus than it would if your were in an upright position. Refrain from eating just before going to bed. To help minimize acid reflux symptoms before going to bed, prop your upper body up with pillows so that your head and chest are positioned at an angle above the rest of your body.
Food Portions
Limit the amount of food you eat at each meal. When you eat big meals, the stomach has to use a lot of acid to break down the food. This can exacerbate the symptoms of acid reflux. Instead of eating two or three big meals, eat four or five smaller meals throughout the day.
Fluids
Drinking water is beneficial to the body. It helps keep you hydrated, lubricates the joints, aids in digestion and it helps regulate body temperature. Drinking water can also help to keep the symptoms of acid reflux at bay; water helps to flush toxins from the system and also dilutes stomach acid. You can also mix natural ingredients with water to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux. For example, mix 2 to 3 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water; or drink fennel, chamomile or cinnamon tea.
