Apple cider vinegar has been used as a folk remedy for acid reflux and heartburn. Some people recommend swallowing a teaspoon and others suggest mixing a tablespoon or two in a glass of water before drinking. No scientific research backs the claim for apple cider vinegar as a remedy, and the acetic acid in the product may worsen the problem.
Triggers
Each person has different triggers for acid reflux. Common foods cited as offenders include fried or fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, citrus fruit and tomato-based products, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains. The acidic contents of citrus fruit and tomatoes result in acid reflux for some people. You may have the same concerns because of the acidic contents in apple cider vinegar.
Digestion
Proponents of apple cider vinegar as a remedy for acid reflux explain that it neutralizes stomach acid or it balances acidic levels in the stomach to prevent digestive problems. Indigestion, bloating and other digestive difficulties may increase the risk of acid reflux. Because research has not confirmed apple cider vinegar as an effective remedy, people may experience a placebo effect when taking it, according to Jennifer Rackley of HealthCentral. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may increase heartburn symptoms, damage tooth enamel and even burn the esophagus when taken regularly. Although many sites tout the remedy, authoritative sources have not, reporter Jennifer LaRue Huget points out in the "Washington Post." She asked a dietitian and three gastroenterologists about the remedy and none said they would recommend it.
Heartburn Diet
Penn Medicine recommends avoiding vinegar in a diet to manage heartburn. It also advises against paprika, chili or jalapeno peppers. A high-fiber diet to avoid acid reflux symptoms may include plenty of non-citrus fruits, vegetables and whole grains to help aid digestion. Penn Medicine also suggests eating small, frequent meals instead of three large meals a day to avoid symptoms
Acid Remedy
Even though evidence does not show apple cider vinegar can relieve acid reflux, there are people who say it does. Nil Heartburn, a website for heartburn sufferers, admits it is difficult to understand how the acidic properties in vinegar could aid acid reflux. However, it points out acid may also trigger an esophageal muscle to close tightly, preventing acid reflux. The muscle usually results in acid reflux when trigger foods relax it. But if your stomach does not have enough acid, the muscle may also relax. Drinking a glass of water with 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar may tighten the muscle to keep it closed when heartburn strikes. If you have a desire to try out the remedy, test it carefully. For frequent acid reflux, see your doctor, who can give you proper dietary and medical advice for your particular case.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD); May 2007
- HealthCentral; Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux & GERD; Jennifer Rackley; May 2008
- Washington Post; The Cider Vinegar Heartburn Cure?; Jennifer LaRue Huget; November 2008
- Penn Medicine: Managing Heartburn with Diet
- Nil Heartburn: Why Use Vinegar for Heartburn
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