Apple Cider Vinegar for Heartburn

While the main component of vinegar is acetic acid, it also contains minerals, vitamins, enzymes and certain beneficial bacteria. Whenever you are buying vinegar that is made from cider, do check for a milky and cloudy substance at the bottom of the container. This substance is called the 'mother' of vinegar. It has the ability to cure various diseases. It is believed that one can use apple cider vinegar for heartburn. Heartburn, which refers to a burning sensation in the chest that is felt post meals, is caused by acid reflux (backflow of gastric juices from the stomach to the esophagus).

After chewing, the food makes its entry to the stomach through a tube-like structure called esophagus. After the passage of the food, the tube closes down but sometimes, due to certain reasons, it does not get shut thereby, allowing the stomach acid to deposit on its lining. The stomach acid touches the esophageal wall, resulting in a burning sensation, often rising in the chest. The pain felt due to heartburn can also spread to the neck and throat regions. It may also be accompanied by bloating and acidic taste in the mouth.

What Causes Heartburn?

Our stomach is protected from the gastric acids by its own lining, but the esophagus lacks a similar lining. As a result, there is inflammation in the esophageal wall, which causes heartburn. Certain foods that cause heartburn are spicy and acidic foods, alcohol, tangy citrus fruits, etc. Obesity and pregnancy are some other conditions that affect the proper functioning of the esophageal sphincter. The stomach acidity can be neutralized by the soothing effects of vinegar made from cider. Heartburn problems can be cured with the appropriate dosage of this medicine.

Cider Vinegar

Once sweet apples are crushed, the sugar content of the apples is converted to alcohol by yeast fermentation. The alcohol is converted to acetic acid by fermentation. Acetic acid, which is its primary content, helps to cure health problems like heartburn. In order to prevent bacterial growth, it should be kept in mind that the pH of this product is below 4.5.

You may have come across many tips for heartburn relief, but vinegar made from pulverized apples is the most natural remedy to treat acidity and heartburn. The acetic acid and mineral content counterbalances the levels of strong hydrochloric acid of stomach. You can take cider vinegar two to three times in a day, but only after your meals. Add two to three spoonfuls of this natural drug to a glass of water, and drink the solution after you have shaken it well. A little amount of honey can be added to this solution for a sweet taste. This nutritious, health drink is beneficial in keeping the harmful toxins away from the body. It regulates the pH of the stomach acid by keeping it normal, thereby preventing the burning sensation.

This home remedy not only provides relief from the burning sensation, but is also believed to be free from side effects. But, before you think about following the aforementioned remedy, it is advisable to consult your doctor.