What are the Home Remedies for Acid Refluxes?
January 26, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Certainly! Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause discomfort and irritation in the esophagus due to stomach acid backing up into the throat. Here are some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux:
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the abdomen and worsen acid reflux symptoms. Losing weight through diet and exercise can help reduce symptoms.
- Eat smaller meals: Large meals can trigger acid reflux. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading the stomach.
- Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods and beverages, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol, can trigger acid reflux symptoms. Identify and avoid your personal trigger foods.
- Don’t lie down after eating: Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. Gravity helps keep stomach acid in the stomach when you’re upright.
- Elevate the head of your bed: Place blocks or risers under the head of your bed to elevate it by 6 to 8 inches. This can help prevent stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus while you sleep.
- Dietary Changes:
- Eat more fiber: High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help prevent acid reflux by promoting healthy digestion and reducing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
- Chew gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can increase saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
- Drink herbal tea: Chamomile, ginger, licorice, and peppermint teas may help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
- Natural Remedies:
- Aloe vera juice: Drinking aloe vera juice may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and provide relief from acid reflux symptoms. Choose pure aloe vera juice without added sugars or flavors.
- Apple cider vinegar: While acidic, some people find relief from acid reflux by diluting a tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drinking it before meals.
- Baking soda: Mixing a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drinking it slowly may help neutralize stomach acid and alleviate acid reflux symptoms. However, use caution, as excessive consumption of baking soda can have side effects.
- Stress Reduction:
- Stress and anxiety can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation to help manage stress and improve digestion.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience frequent or severe acid reflux symptoms, as untreated GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, or even esophageal cancer. Your doctor may recommend medications or other treatments to manage your symptoms effectively.