Apple cider vinegar has been touted as a home remedy for acid reflux, but the liquid contains acidic contents that may worsen symptoms. Experiencing acid reflux more than two times a week indicates gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Acid reflux results from stomach acid backup. Symptoms include heartburn, a burning sensation in your upper chest and throat, or a sour taste in the back of your mouth.
Acid Reflux Causes
Heavy meals increase the risk of acid reflux and heartburn because the stomach secretes more acid during digestion. Certain foods also trigger acid reflux by relaxing an esophageal muscle. The ring-like muscle usually opens as contents enter the stomach and then closes. A relaxed muscle doesn't close tightly and allows stomach acid to rise back up into the esophagus.
Trigger Foods
Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, have been known to trigger acid reflux. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may aggravate GERD symptoms. You may have your own specific acid reflux triggers because people respond differently to foods. Other common triggers include spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages, chocolate and alcohol.
Vinegar Remedy
Proponents of apple cider vinegar as a remedy for acid reflux say it balances acid levels in the stomach when you take a tablespoon or two regularly. Another theory claims that a small amount of apple cider vinegar tightens the esophageal muscle to provide quick relief from heartburn. Research, however, does not back up these claims, nutritionist Jennifer Rackley notes in HealthCentral. The acidic properties in apple cider vinegar may burn the esophagus, creating harmful consequences for people with GERD. Although no authoritative sources support the idea of using apple cider vinegar as a remedy for acid reflux and heartburn, many people still say it works. People do have different triggers and also different remedies. If you want to try apple cider vinegar, using it carefully may help you find out if the method works for your particular condition.
Dietary Protection
An acid reflux diet, however, may provide you with long-term protection from symptoms. Acid reflux diets usually include whole grains, non-citrus fruits, vegetables and low-fat protein foods that discourage acid reflux symptoms. Choosing lean meat, skinless poultry and fish cuts back on fat intake that may encourage acid reflux. Avoiding heavy sauces or creams along with trigger foods also reduces your risk of symptoms. Practicing an acid reflux diet helps you to change your eating patterns so you don't have to focus on finding remedies for frequent symptoms.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD); May 2007
- HealthCentral; Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux and GERD; Jennifer Rackley; May 2008
- "The Washington Post"; The Cider Vinegar Heartburn Cure?; Jennifer LaRue Huget; November 2008
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology; Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet; Frank W. Jackson, M.D.
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