According the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that can become chronic. GERD occurs when the bile and acid from a person's stomach backs up into the esophagus. Symptoms can be uncomfortable and can include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pains or an irritated throat. There are over-the-counter and prescription medications available to treat the symptoms. There are also a variety of natural solutions for acid reflux that have little to no side effects.
Change in Diet and Eating Habits
Perhaps the best way to treat acid reflux is through diet. According the "Alternative Health Journal," there are certain foods that should be avoided to reduce acid reflux. Citrus fruits should be avoided as they are too acidic, this also includes tomatoes. People prone to acid reflux should stay away from spicy foods as well as fried foods. Other foods to stay clear of include chocolate, peppermint, dairy products and caffeinated drinks. Alcohol should be avoided as well. Doctors recommend that acid reflux sufferers eat five to six smaller meals a day rather than large meals. Changing diet habits can mean feeling a great deal better after eating.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Earl Mindell's book, "Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar," suggests that apple cider vinegar helps with acid reflux. The acid in the apple cider vinegar can neutralize the hydrochloric acid that is in the stomach. Another reason apple cider vinegar works is because, sometimes, when people have acid reflux, they have too little acid in their stomachs, and the vinegar imitates stomach acid, which then helps with digestion. Simply add 2 to 3 tsp. of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup of water, add some honey, and drink it before each meal.
Herbs
There are a variety of herbs that can help with acid reflux. The "Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine" suggests that ginger, which works by relaxing the muscles of the esophagus walls, can relive and help prevent acid reflux. Sipping ginger tea, using the powder, or putting fresh ginger root on your foods can be helpful. Licorice root can act like a mild antacid and can be taken as a supplement or in a tea. Black pepper is an herb that helps with gastric circulation, and, therefore stimulates digestion. Adding this aromatic herb to foods can assist with acid reflux.
References
- Patient Health International
- Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar; Earl Mindell; 1998
- The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine; Andrew Chevallier and Gillian Emerson-Roberts; 2000
