1. Cut the Fat
The best natural cure for acid reflux is to change your eating habits. High-fat foods as well as refined flours and sugars are some of the biggest culprits for GERD, and they should be limited as much as possible. Additionally, eating too much at each meal and eating too fast can often cause a flare-up of symptoms. Try eating four or five small meals throughout the day and take the time to relax, chew and eat slowly.
2. Fighting Acid With Acid
It may seem crazy to add an acid to your diet when combating acid reflux; however, there are a number of reasons why apple cider vinegar for acid reflux works. Acid reflux disease, or GERD, is not always caused by an excess of stomach acid; it is sometimes caused by a lack of stomach acid. Apple cider vinegar actually has alkaline properties when ingested and matches the normal pH of the body, helping to regulate stomach acid regardless if GERD is caused by an excess or lack of stomach acid.
3. Bananas Beat the Burn
Bananas help to reduce the symptoms of GERD in two ways. First of all, they contain enzymes that stimulate the production of the mucus that covers the lining of the stomach. This healthy mucus helps to heal and prevent ulcers, the leading cause of acid reflux. Additionally, bananas are natural antacids, helping to reduce the over-production of stomach acids. Eating bananas as your dessert can help to decrease after-meal heartburn.
4. Fiber is Your Friend
Fiber not only helps to reduce cholesterol and the risks of heart disease, it also aids in elimination and functions as a bulking agent in the stomach. Fiber works as a natural antacid as it binds to the acids in the stomach, preventing them from splashing up and burning the esophagus. The best sources of fiber are whole grains and raw vegetables; however, supplements may also be taken if you cannot get enough fiber in your regular diet.
5. Stop the Stimulants of Stomach Acid
There are a number of items that can aggravate GERD; therefore, by simply limiting them, you can cure acid reflux. Stimulants include alcohol, tobacco, stress and anti-inflammatory medications. Additionally, high-acid foods, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits and dairy products can all aggravate your symptoms. Other triggers may vary from person to person but may include spicy foods, fried foods and caffeine.
