Acid reflux is a common problem for many people. It is characterized by painful burning in the chest and stomach, bloating, belching and coughing, difficulty breathing at night and a host of other unpleasant symptoms. Poor diet contributes to acid reflux. If left untreated, it may develop into more serious diseases like Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer. Symptoms may be controlled by a change in diet and the addition of specific foods that soothe inflammation of the affected tissues.
Lemon Water
High in potassium, lemon juice helps alkalize the system and neutralize acids in the stomach, according to the "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition." By neutralizing excessive amounts of stomach acid, lemon juice may offer relief from reflux pain and discomfort. Mix the juice of 1/2 lemon with 6 to 8 oz. warm water and drink. If you want to sweeten the lemon water, add a spoonful of raw honey.
Apples
You may obtain relief from your acid reflux symptoms when you eat sweet red apples, according to Dr. Theodore Baroody in "Alkalize or Die." In addition, unsweetened applesauce and fresh apple juice may also soothe away the pain. Apples help to alter the stomach pH, aiding in neutralizing acids. Try a few slices of apple or a dish of applesauce after a meal or before bedtime to manage your symptoms. The sweeter the apples, the more likely you'll experience some relief.
Honey
Dr. Baroody states that raw honey may also relieve heartburn symptoms. Honey is high in potassium and aids in creating an alkaline-forming environment, promoting digestion and neutralizing stomach acids. Use honey in place of sugar, or sip on a spoonful of honey for pain relief.
Radish Extract
Extract of radishes accelerates the speed of digestion, allowing food less time spent in the stomach, according to James Duke, Ph.D. in "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Less time in the stomach means less of a chance for stomach acids to build and less opportunity for putrefaction to set in, creating acid reflux. Extract of radish is available at health food stores. In addition to its properties to help prevent acid reflux, it may also prevent bloating and gas resulting from incomplete digestion. Consult with your health practitioner or an herbalist for directions for dosing.
Basil
Chew on a fresh basil leaf or make basil tea to relieve your acid reflux symptoms, suggests Herbs 2000. Basil may help lessen indigestion and reduce pain from reflux; however, in some people who are sensitive, it can relax the esophageal sphincter, enabling food to reflux up the esophagus. If you develop symptoms from basil, stop using it.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook"; James Duke; 2002
- Herbs2000.com: Basil
- LifeExtension: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- "Alkalinize or Die"; Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 1991
- "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition"; Audrey H. Ensminger; 1995
