Natural Treatment for Acid Reflux

You might have experienced severe heartburn and chest pain after having food, usually during night hours. Occasionally, you may feel sick and tumefied after having hot food. All these are the symptoms of acid reflux. It is also known as GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). Dietary and lifestyle changes, genetic attributes and Candida infections are some of its common causes. Here are some natural treatments to alleviate the condition.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the well-known home remedies for acid reflux, and it has no side-effects. Taking 2-3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 8 oz of water is one of the easiest way to curb acid reflux. You can take some honey along with this preparation. Honey makes this medicine less bitter. Apple cider vinegar is easily available in food stores.

Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is another soothing natural medicine for acid reflux. It acts immediately, but you should take it daily for 6-8 weeks. Aloe vera contains all vitamins (except vitamin D), minerals and twenty-two amino acids. Aloe vera helps in the digestion of food. 1/4th cup of aloe vera must be consumed 10-20 minutes before meals. It can be taken along with some non-acidic fruit juice. You must avoid citrus fruits.

Licorice Root Powder
The esophagus lining may get damaged due to acid reflux. Licorice root powder is used to have a soothing effect on the esophagus. LES (lower esophageal sphincter) muscles contract after having food, so that acids and enzymes used for the digestion do not leak out to the esophagus and eventually, to the trachea. These muscles relax when you experience acid reflux. Licorice powder helps the LES muscles to contract, which lowers the chances of acid reflux. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice tablets can be taken before meals. They take about 3-4 weeks to show positive results.

Glutamine
Glutamine is a natural element of the human body. Glutamine acts as an anti-inflammatory acid to cure acid reflux. It is also found in spinach, parsley, chicken, milk, beef and eggs.

Ginger
Ginger is another root, which is effective. Ginger can be consumed in many forms like ginger tea, candied ginger in tea, pickled ginger and raw ginger. Ginger is a tasty stomach tonic. It cures many stomach ailments without any side-effects. Ginger tea can be prepared easily. Peel and cut 1 inch of ginger and boil it in a cup of water. Add honey and fresh ginger tea is ready. Having ginger tea, twice a day, helps you to keep the pH levels of the digestive system neutral.

Simply Natural
You can lessen the occurrence of acid reflux attacks by incorporating some of the following habits:

• You must avoid acidic foods, which include beverages, alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes and onion.
• Stress is an important aspect. Stressful routine can cause acid reflux. Exercising is the best way to have a stress-free life.
• Obesity can be another cause for acidity. If you are obese, then you are recommended to lose those extra pounds to live a life without acidity and its adverse effects.
• Nicotine is a major cause of acidity and you must avoid taking it in any form.
• You must not go to sleep or bend immediately after you have your meals.
• While sleeping, lift the upper part of your body by 6-8 inches using pillows so that the acid will not flow out to the esophagus when you sleep.
• You must not wear tight-fitting clothes, which may cause a problem after eating. Tight fitting clothes will press the abdominal part causing acid reflux.
• Lastly, consult your doctor, in case of frequent attacks and heartburns.
• Drink a lot of water to dilute the acids in your stomach.

You must keep a check on how much and when you eat food. This will help reduce recurrent attacks. If you keep in mind these basic tips, you may be able to lower the chances of getting an attack of acid reflux. Eat healthy, stay acid free!