Vinegar for Heartburn - Why It Works and Why It is the Best Cure for Acid Reflux

Apple cider vinegar is a product that has been used for hundreds of years as a medicine with great healing powers. It has long been established that vinegar for heartburn is a natural remedy that really works! Maybe it was apple cider vinegar that was inspiration behind the saying: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away."

Are you among those that are afraid of taking prescription medications because of the possible bad side affects? Have the horror stories in the news about dangerous drugs made you hesitate whenever your doctor pulls out his or her prescription pad?

No wonder people are continually looking for safe, natural ways to combat their ailments.

Were you aware that apple cider vinegar has been recognized for its healing qualities for thousands of years? It has been used in the treatment of allergies, colds, sinus infections, yeast infections – well, it's been used for many, many ailments! And among the most common is acid reflux. In fact, vinegar for heartburn has been used effectively over and over again.

Millions suffer from acid reflux or GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). The condition is caused when the lower esophageal sphincter does not function properly, allowing stomach liquids go back to the esophagus. The result is a horrible burning sensation in the back of your throat.

This condition, commonly referred to as heartburn, can be downright scary and even affect your ability to breathe - especially if it wakes you up at night.

Acid reflux is not uncommon. Many people experience it - especially after eating hot and spicy foods. However, most people only experience it on infrequent occasions. When it comes back constantly, week after week, you need to get to a doctor for a diagnosis.

When the lining of the esophagus is severely damaged, acid reflux can become dangerous. That is the reason you should see your doctor or health care professional if you have weekly episodes.

Many doctors prescribe simple antacids to fight heartburn. But sometimes this makes the condition worse. You wonder why? The antacids reduce stomach acid, and therefore your body receives a message that it is "low" on stomach acid! Your brain then instructs your stomach to produce more acid! Once the antacid wears off, your heartburn is back – only worse!

Instead of reaching for the antacids, try mixing 2 to 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a small glass of water and drinking it whenever you have heartburn. In fact, it's a good idea to have a glass of this magic potion before each meal. It really seems to work. Why?

It may be because the acetic acid in vinegar lowers stomach acidity, increasing its pH. This is likely because the acetic acid in vinegar is weaker than stomach acid and it seems to cause the stomach acid to remain at a pH level around 3.0 – which is a milder acidic environment, yet still strong enough for digestion. This, in turn, causes less problems for the esophagus - reducing the liklihood of heartburn.

Some folks complain about the taste of the water and vinegar, but frankly, I don't mind it at all. Like the taste or not, everyone seems to agree that a brief unpleasant (not strong) taste is well worth the benefits it brings!

Why not give this safe, inexpensive remedy a try? Remember - folks have been using vinegar for heartburn successfully for hundreds of years!

If you suffer from acid reflux, a safe cure is available. The use of vinegar is just one step in the process. Learn more about the very best cure for heartburn by visiting our blog, "About the Family." Click on the page entitled: "The Best Cure for Acid Reflux."

If you find safe, natural cures appealing, cures such as vinegar for heartburn - visit our blog at http://aboutthefamily.com. There you will find additional information on natural alternatives.

Terry Fallon writes features and articles about family health, happiness, and well being.