Some of the problems that characterize acid reflux are sharp, burning pains in the stomach, bloating after meals, bowel dysfunction, sore throats, belching, bad breath and the inability to lie down and sleep without pain. All are very unpleasant, and in some cases, serious symptoms of GERD. But there is hope. Numerous foods and home remedies can help reduce and in some cases relieve reflux symptoms entirely. Try one or all of these for fast relief.
Step 1
Drink licorice root tea for soothing relief from GERD burning pains. Licorice root helps to produce mucous secretions, healing ulcers and other irritated spots on the esophagus and stomach lining, explains Life Extension.org. Drink the tea straight or with a spoonful of raw honey, but refrain from adding milk, which may make your symptoms worse. Licorice root can raise blood pressure and affect the kidneys, warns Life Extension.org, so consult with your doctor before using this home acid reflux remedy. Licorice root is available in health food stores and online.
Step 2
Make a soothing drink consisting of ½ tsp. baking soda in an 8 oz. glass of water and sip slowly, suggests Drugs.com. Baking soda will add bicarbonate to your stomach's digestive juices, which is a natural part of digestion. Ordinarily the pancreas produces bicarbonate during digestion to neutralize acids, and by drinking some during an attack you are mimicking this natural process, aiding in the reduction of heartburn pain. Baking soda can raise blood pressure, so use caution if you have hypertension. Your doctor may advise that you take a different dose.
Step 3
Use organic apple cider vinegar to for a highly effective acid reflux remedy, recommends Dr. Theodore A. Baroody in his book "Alkalinize or Die." Apple cider vinegar stimulates digestion by helping to bring about the release of bicarbonate by the pancreas, thus neutralizing acids, and in the process relieves heartburn symptoms. Mix 1 to 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar in 8 oz. of water and drink several times a day as needed for relief.
Step 4
Take a spoonful or two of raw honey. Use it straight or mix with 1 to 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar and 8 oz. of water for a refreshing drink that soothes reflux symptoms. Raw honey is high in potassium, and assists digestion by neutralizing acids, explains Dr. Baroody. If you suffer from reflux at night, take a spoonful of honey before retiring, or if you awaken with reflux take a spoonful of honey for relief.
Step 5
Elevate your upper body by about 45 degrees on a pillow wedge or raise the head of your bed by 4 to 6 inches to assist in keeping acids in the stomach instead of allowing them to back up into the esophagus by lying flat.
Tips and Warnings
- Give all of these methods a chance to find out what works best for you. They can be alternated with one another, but don't mix them at the same time. Leave at least an hour or two between drinking apple cider vinegar and baking soda.
- The information offered here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Baking soda
- Apple cider vinegar
- Raw honey
- Pillow wedge
- Licorice root tea
References
- "Alkalinize or Die," Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, 1991
- Life Extension
- Drugs.com
