Acid reflux occurs when the esophageal sphincter connecting the esophagus to the stomach does not function properly, allowing stomach digest to move backward into the esophagus and exposing it to stomach acids. This causes the burning pains known as heartburn. Apples can be used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), preventing painful acid from backing up into the esophagus and helping the esophageal sphincter heal. Over-the-counter and prescription medicines may give temporary relief of symptoms, but can also cause unpleasant side effects, and do not resolve the problem permanently. Here's how to use apples to treat acid reflux.
How to Cure Acid Reflux With Apples
Step 1
Buy organic apples that are sweeter rather than the tart Granny Smiths. Red or Golden Delicious or Braeburn are great to use for reducing acid reflux symptoms.
Apples work to reduce symptoms of GERD because they create an alkaline state in the stomach, neutralizing excess acids and aiding in digestion.
Step 2
Eat half an apple after each meal to help prevent onset of reflux and to alkalinize stomach acids. Adjust the amount of apple eaten according to how you respond. Also eat an apple as a midafternoon snack.
Step 3
If you experience heartburn at bed time or during the night, eat half an apple before retiring.
Step 4
Add either raw organic honey or black strap molasses to your apple snack. Either dip the apple in the sweet goo or just place a teaspoon of honey or molasses directly into your mouth. Both honey and molasses are high in potassium and create an alkaline environment in the body contributing to the power of the apple to reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
Step 5
For variety, use a power juicer to make your own fresh, organic apple juice. Core the apple and use the rest--including peel--to make the juice. Raw juices are exceptionally good for the body and assist in the alkalinization process. Drop in a dollop of raw honey while juicing for some extra sweetness and to further reduce symptoms.
Step 6
Make changes in your diet, reducing foods known to aggravate GERD. Eliminate coffee, soda, alcohol, excess fats, tomatoes, cheese and wheat.
Tips and Warnings
- Try different kinds of apples until you find one or more that help to reduce symptoms. Black strap molasses has a strong flavor. Mix in fresh apple juice or a glass of water or follow with a glass of water.
- The suggestions here are given for educational purposes and not meant to take the place of medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Organic apples
- Organic raw honey
- Organic black strap molasses
- Power juicer
References
- "The pH Miracle, Balance Your Diet, Reclaim Your Health," Robert O. Young Ph.D. and Shelley Redford Young, 2002
- "Alkalinize or Die," Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, 1991
- Earth Clinic Folk Remedies
