Acid Reflux Remedies During Pregnancy

Acid reflux is often referred to as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux disease is caused due to the stomach acid getting pushed into the esophagus, which results in a burning sensation in the chest region. During pregnancy, the chances of acid reflux increases manifold. This is because the weight gained by pregnant women puts additional amount of pressure on the abdominal region, and the contents of stomach is often pushed into the esophagus. Moreover, during pregnancy, there is an increase in the levels of various hormones which have a huge impact on the digestive system as well. There are several over-the-counter medicines that can act as relievers for acid reflux. However, it is always advisable to opt for natural or herbal acid reflux remedies during pregnancy.

Acid Reflux Home Remedies

Water is considered as one of the best acid reflux remedies for pregnant women. It dilutes the stomach acid which can then be flushed out of the system quite easily. One should take at least two glasses of water after every meal to help in this regard. Chewing some almonds in the morning time also helps in getting rid of acid reflux. Make sure you chew them well or else it can have some adverse effects. Even eating a clove after meals has an amazing effect on acid reflux. Milk, carrot juice, milk of raw coconuts, etc. are some excellent natural remedies for acid reflux, and help in bringing down the feeling of discomfort usually associated with acid reflux.

One of the most useful acid reflux natural remedies is baking soda. Prepare a mixture of one tablespoon baking soda with one glass of water, and drink it. As baking soda has basic chemical properties, it is good in neutralization of the acid, and provides temporary relief to the pain. However, pregnant women who have pre-eclampsia should avoid intake of baking soda because of its high sodium content. You may be surprised to know that an acidic substance can be used to treat acid reflux. One such acid reflux remedy is apple cider vinegar treatment. Take one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and mix it well in half a glass of water. Sip this mixture at the time of taking your meals. Learn more about home remedies for acid reflux:

• Natural Cures for Acid Reflux
• Acid Reflux Remedies

Acid Reflux Herbal Remedies

Following is a list of some herbal cures for acid reflux which can provide substantial relief from the symptoms of acid reflux:

• Ginger is the best herbal treatment for digestive health. You can use ginger in various forms like powdered, pickled, or even simple fresh ginger for this purpose. Whenever the problems of acid reflux set in, chew a piece of ginger and the muscles present on the walls of the esophagus will be relaxed.
• The components of herbal tea, like peppermint and aniseed, are effective acid reflux remedies while pregnant, and have a soothing effect on the burning sensation of acid reflux. You can mix some honey into the tea and have it the first thing in the morning.
• The skin of grapefruit is another herbal heartburn cure. Remove the outer skin of organic grapes and allow to dry by placing them on a plate. Chew the dried grape skin when you feel the heartburn sensation.
• In some of the European countries, Aloe Vera juice is considered to be one of the best acid reflux remedies during pregnancy. This juice is believed to bring down the irritating sensation and inflammation of acid reflux in the esophagus region.
• Roots of chicory are a powerful herb that can lessen the the effect of acid reflux to a great extent. What you need to do is boil some chicory roots in water for around ten minutes. Allow it to cool down before drinking it. Though it is slightly bitter in taste, this concoction can reduce the severity of acid reflux significantly.

Preventive Measures

The best way you can prevent the occurrence of acid reflux during pregnancy is by taking care of what you are eating. You have to follow a GERD diet. Strictly avoid all foods that can trigger acid reflux. To curb acid reflux, foods to avoid include spicy foods, fried foods, fatty foods, and food items which are heavily seasoned. Some of the other foods that can cause acid reflux are chocolates, tomato-based products like ketchup, citrus fruits, mustard, mints, etc. Do not eat large quantities of food at meals. Instead eat small meals a number of times throughout the day. While eating, make sure you chew your food properly. Drink plenty of fluids, but do not drink them along with the meals. Avoid caffeine beverages like tea, coffee, cola etc. Strictly avoid consumption of alcohol. Have dinner a few hours before you retire for the day. While sleeping, make sure that the head of the bed is raised 6 - 8 inches higher than the rest of the body. In this way, gravity will not let acids of the stomach to rise into the esophagus.

The acid reflux remedies during pregnancy discussed here are quite safe at any stage of pregnancy. The effect of these remedies can vary from one person to another. However, if the discomfort continues for a prolonged period of time, it is always advisable to consult your doctor immediately.