Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux
When stomach acid travels up your food pipe, it causes a constant burning sensation in your chest, which, in medical terms, is known as acid reflux. Nobody likes the unpleasant feeling of heartburn after a meal, and it often leads to one feeling nauseous and irritable. Acid reflux is common among people of all ages, and the severity of the symptoms may vary depending on an individual’s diet and sleeping pattern. There are many effective natural remedies and lifestyle changes that help address the symptoms before you resort to medication.
- Chew gum
Chewing gum after a meal can soothe the symptoms of acid reflux. Gum propagates the production of saliva that makes you swallow more, and the acid is pushed down the esophagus.
- Watch your diet
Some food and beverages cause acid reflux, and to understand what triggers the symptoms, watch your diet. Caffeine, fried foods, carbonated beverages, chocolate, citrus fruits, and high-fat foods are to be avoided. A fiber-rich diet aids in keeping your digestive tract healthy.
- Have a meal 3 hours before going to bed
Avoid having meals just before your bedtime because your stomach needs time to settle after a meal. Also, watch your everyday eating pattern because eating very late in the night and having no fixed mealtime can be the cause of acid reflux. It’s also important to take smaller bites and eat slowly.
- Change your sleeping pattern
Poor sleep quality and a change in your sleep cycle can trigger heartburn and gut issues. Getting adequate and good quality sleep is essential not just to keep these symptoms at bay but for our overall well-being.
- Apple cider vinegar
Unprocessed apple cider vinegar diluted in water can help reduce acidity as it is one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux. However, first, try this with a small quantity of the liquid to see if your body can comfortably take it. It may have adverse effects on some people.
- Banana
This low-acid fruit makes for a good snack and can help relieve heartburn. Only after trying it once or twice will you definitely know if it works for you.
- Baking soda
A tiny amount of baking soda mixed with water can reduce the acidity levels in one. Some claim it works equally well as an over-the-counter antacid, and thankfully, it is available in almost everyone’s pantry.
- Peppermint
Peppermint comes in handy in many situations since it relaxes the muscles in the stomach. However, people who aren’t tolerant of mint shouldn’t try this remedy.
- Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera juice has proven to calm irritations from stomach acids for many. If you aren’t trying an organic juice, ensure to buy the one that you’ve used before and are confident about.
- Ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and makes for an excellent digestive. Diluted with boiling water, ginger juice should reduce the acidity and is one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux.
- Cold milk
A glass of cold milk always does the trick. It’s known to stabilize the gastric acids in the stomach and temporarily calms the irritation being felt by one.