What are the Home Remedies for Bile Reflux?
March 5, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Bile reflux occurs when bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, flows backward from the small intestine into the stomach and esophagus. While it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms of bile reflux:
- Dietary modifications: Avoid foods and beverages that trigger bile reflux symptoms, such as fatty or fried foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Instead, opt for a low-fat, high-fiber diet consisting of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Eat smaller meals: Instead of consuming large meals, eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help reduce pressure on the stomach and prevent excessive production of bile.
- Avoid lying down after meals: Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed to allow time for digestion and prevent bile reflux symptoms.
- Elevate the head of the bed: Use bed risers or a wedge pillow to elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches. Sleeping with your head elevated can help prevent bile reflux by keeping stomach acid and bile from flowing back into the esophagus.
- Chew gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and bile reflux.
- Ginger: Drink ginger tea or chew on ginger slices to help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of bile reflux. Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and esophagus.
- Baking soda: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it to help neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms of bile reflux. However, use this remedy sparingly and consult with a healthcare professional, as excessive use of baking soda can lead to electrolyte imbalances and other health issues.
- Licorice root: Drink licorice root tea or take deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) supplements to help soothe the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of bile reflux. DGL supplements are available in chewable tablets or powder form.
- Aloe vera juice: Drink aloe vera juice to help soothe inflammation in the esophagus and reduce symptoms of bile reflux. Make sure to choose aloe vera juice that is free from added sugars and preservatives.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase pressure on the stomach and worsen symptoms of bile reflux. Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet to help reduce symptoms.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any home remedies for bile reflux, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide personalized recommendations and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.