Acid reflux is a symptom of a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. When acid reflux occurs, acid from your stomach backs its way up the esophagus and throat. A bitter or sour taste can be felt in your mouth when this happens and it can be quite an uncomfortable feeling. This condition can be treated and cured with some natural remedies.
Significance
Acid reflux is not life-threatening for the most part, but it can be very serious. If you suffer from it long enough, cells in your lower esophagus can become damaged and you can have trouble swallowing. An esophageal ulcer can develop in your throat which can inhibit your ability to swallow. In a condition called "Barrett's esophagus," the composition and color of esophageal tissue changes and your risk for esophageal cancer increases.
Function
Regular treatments for acid reflux include antacids, H-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors. These come in both over-the-counter and prescription formulas. The problem with all of these is that they can cause side effects like diarrhea, constipation, depression and fatigue. Natural approaches are used as alternative treatments that don't cause side effects.
Weight
When you are overweight or obese, you have an increased risk for developing a chronic disease like diabetes, high blood pressure and certain cancers, but it can also have an effect on acid reflux. According to the Mayo Clinic, excess pounds put pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your esophagus. If you are overweight, decrease your calories to get down to a normal level. Decrease your daily total by 500 calories to lose a pound a week.
Meals
The type and amount of food you eat, as well as the timing of your meals, all have an impact on acid reflux. When you eat large meals, your stomach has to produce an excessive amount of acid to start the digestion process which can cause reflux. Eat smaller meals and spread them out over the day to prevent this from happening.
There are some foods that have been known to trigger reflux attacks and they should be avoided. Examples of these include fast foods, chocolate, peppermint, oils, whole milk, citrus fruits and caffeinated beverages.
The last meal you eat before going to bed should be at least two or three hours before you lie down. This is because, when you lie down, acid has a greater chance of coming up into your esophagus.
Elevation
Elevating your bed can place the upper part of your body at an incline which will make it harder for reflux to occur. This can be done by placing some cement or wooden blocks underneath the feet of your bed where your head lies.
Identification
Apple cider vinegar is a natural home remedy that is made from fermented apples. It has been used for years to treat a number of ailments for both humans and animals. Take 1 tbsp. before your meals as it is, or mix it in a glass of water, to treat acid reflux.
