There is little clinical evidence to verify the efficacy of using vinegar as a remedy for acid reflux. However, you may want to try some home remedies using vinegar if you suffer from occasional heartburn or mild acid reflux and want to avoid the side effects associated with prescription or over-the counter medications which reduce the production of excessive stomach acid.
Cause
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle that encircles the bottom part of your esophagus to separate the esophagus from the stomach, relaxes enough for small amounts of stomach acid to touch the lining of the esophagus. You will feel a burning sensation in your chest or throat when this occurs.
Prevention/Solution
Earth Clinic recommends a homemade tonic using apple cider vinegar, to alleviate your symptoms or to prevent an acid reflux episode. Mix 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar in 8 oz. of water. Drink this solution up to three times a day before meals to prevent acid reflux.
Diluting Stomach Acid
One theory behind using apple cider vinegar to treat the symptoms of acid reflux is that the acetic acid in vinegar can dilute the acidity in your stomach. This is because acetic acid is a weaker acid than the hydrochloric acid in your stomach. Your stomach can still digest food, but the milder acidic environment can reduce your likelihood of producing excessive amounts of stomach acid while you eat.
Maintaining Adequate Acidity
Another theory indicates that the lower esophageal sphincter can relax and open, allowing stomach acid into the esophagus, if there is not enough acid in the stomach to keep the sphincter closed. Drinking apple cider vinegar throughout the day may help maintain an adequate acidic environment in your stomach to keep the lower esophageal valve closed, according to Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits.
Considerations
Consult a doctor if you suffer from frequent acid reflux or if you experience excessive pain during an acid reflux episode. These can be symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
