The Mayo Clinic describes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, as the backward current of stomach acid rising into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that joins the throat and stomach. The symptoms of acid reflux often include heartburn. Heartburn, as the name suggests, is a burning sensation in your chest. Acid reflux can usually be treated with home remedies and lifestyle adjustments.
Home Solutions
Step 1
Mix 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar with a half glass of water. Apple cider vinegar may help relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of acid reflux.
Step 2
Sip from the glass during your meals. Continue this practice daily for several months, although acid reflux symptoms can disappear within a few days.
Step 3
Shop for ginger root capsules at a nutrition or health food store. Take one capsule right after eating. Ginger root may help absorb stomach acid.
Eating Tips
Step 1
Learn which foods can set off acid reflux and avoid eating them. Fatty, greasy foods and chocolate are common culprits.
Step 2
Eat smaller meals. This will help prevent you from becoming so hungry that you overeat, which can trigger an acid reflux episode.
Step 3
Remain in a seated or standing position for at least two hours after eating. Lying down too soon after a meal can cause pressure in the stomach and force acid up into the esophagus.
Lifestyle Factors
Step 1
Watch your weight. Too many extra pounds places undue pressure on your abdomen and causes acid to back up into your esophagus.
Step 2
Wear loose-fitting clothes. Clothes that are too tight place pressure on your abdomen and make you more susceptible to acid reflux.
Step 3
Elevate the head of your bed by about 6 to 9 inches by placing wood or cement blocks beneath your bedposts. This can help prevent acid from rising up into your esophagus.
Step 4
Quit smoking. Smoking prevents the lower esophageal sphincter from properly functioning.
Things You'll Need
- Apple cider vinegar
- Ginger root capsules
