Acid reflux is a common complaint. The condition is characterized by burning in the stomach and chest, belching, bloating, difficulty breathing and coughing. If allowed to go untreated, acid reflux may develop into serious conditions including Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer. Many symptoms of acid reflux may be controlled or prevented with dietary changes. When certain trigger foods are eliminated and replaced with foods that soothe inflamed tissues, many people find relief.
Apples
Sweet red apples, applesauce and apple juice may be helpful for relieving acid reflux symptoms, according to the book "Alkalize or Die." Apples can alter the pH of the stomach, neutralizing stomach acids. Eating a slice or two of apple or a bowl of applesauce between meals or before bedtime may control burning symptoms or prevent flare-ups during the night.
Honey
Honey is also recommended as a treatment to relieve acid reflux pain, because it is high in potassium. The best honey to use is raw, organic honey, which is free of impurities and other chemicals that may be used on beehives or in processing. Sipping on a spoonful of honey when needed may relieve burning pains. Honey can be added to drinks as a sweetener, with the added benefit of neutralizing stomach acids.
Lemon Water
Lemons are high in potassium, which creates a reaction in the stomach that neutralizes stomach acids. Because they can change the body's pH, lemons and lemonade may reduce symptoms of acid reflux for some people. The most effective way to drink lemonade is without any form of sweetener; however, if it is too tart, raw honey can be added to it.
A 6- to 8-oz. glass of warm water with the juice of half a lemon added may be consumed 45 minutes before meals to aid digestion. In addition, a glass of warm lemon water can be used between meals to reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
Licorice Root
Licorice root tea soothes acid reflux pain, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Licorice creates mucilage or a film of mucus over sensitive digestive tissues, protecting them from stomach acids. The tea can be made from licorice root or by using prepared tea bags, steeping 1 oz. or one bag in a cup of boiling water for five to 10 minutes. Strain and drink as needed. Licorice root may raise the blood pressure, and a health practitioner should be consulted before using it. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that a product called DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, lacks the active chemical responsible for affecting blood pressure, making the product safer for use. Both licorice root tea and DGL can be purchased at health food stores.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- Total-Health-Care.com: Home Remedy for Acid Reflux -- Natural Home Remedies for Acid Reflux
- "Alkalize or Die"; Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 1991
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Licorice
