Vinegar is often used as a home remedy for acid reflux. The symptoms of acid reflux can range from mild gastrointestinal distress to burning in your chest, nausea, vomiting and a painful sore throat. Though the "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide" says that vinegar has not been proven to treat acid reflux effectively, many natural medicine practitioners swear by its results.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when your stomach acid splashes up in your esophagus during the digestion process. In most cases, your esophageal sphincter muscle relaxes spontaneously, allowing the acid to flow freely. The condition can be irritated by eating certain trigger foods, such as spicy or rich dishes, and lying down flat on your back after a meal.
Function
Acid reflux is commonly caused by the presence of too much acid in your stomach. However, Dr. Earl Mindell, author of "Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar," says that in some cases, reflux is actually caused by insufficient acid levels in your stomach. That lack of acid makes digestion very difficult, and can trigger symptoms of acid reflux. Taking acidic vinegar as a supplement may offset this effect in some cases.
Types of Vinegar
There are several different kinds of vinegar that are widely available in stores. However, "The Master Your Metabolism Cookbook" says that apple cider vinegar is the best variety for acid reflux. Many natural medicine practitioners believe that apple cider vinegar contains disease-fighting enzymes, as well as beneficial nutrients and acids that aid troublesome digestion. This theory has not been confirmed by the majority of medical professionals.
Treatment
It's best to take a dose of apple cider vinegar just before a meal. However, you can also take it after eating, when reflux symptoms are beginning to appear. Fill a cup with 4 to 8 oz. of cool water and stir in 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar. Sip it until it's gone. Repeat this treatment up to three times daily if it appears to reduce or eliminate your reflux symptoms.
Warning
If your acid reflux is caused by too much stomach acid, as opposed to not enough, an apple cider vinegar treatment is likely to further irritate your condition. Keep that in mind when you try apple cider vinegar, and pay attention to your body's reaction to this home remedy. If your condition remains the same or worsens, see a doctor as soon as possible. He may be able to prescribe an acid reducer that will greatly improve your reflux.
References
- "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide"; Harvard Medical School; 2004
- "Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar"; Earl Mindell; 1998
- "The Master Your Metabolism Cookbook"; Jillian Michaels and Mariska Van Aalst; 2010
- "The Healing Powers of Vinegar"; Cal Orey; 2009
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