Home Remedies To Treat Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is not a serious medical condition. It is known as heartburn if it occurs in the lower chest. It happens when acid inside the stomach flows back to the food pipe. If it occurs more than two times a week, it is diagnosed as gastroesophageal reflux disease.
At the gastric end of the esophagus, a sphincter( gastroesophageal sphincter) does not permit the food in the stomach to re-enter the esophagus. As it is not a serious medical condition, people usually prefer to treat themselves with home remedies. In persistent cases of acid reflux, the patient must visit Best Cypress Gastroenterologist Specialists.
Various home remedies include:
Chamomile Tea:
It is recommended to have a cup of chamomile tea half an hour before going to bed for nighttime relief. It is known for its relaxing effects and promotes deep sleep. It balances acidity levels and fights inflammation to maintain a healthy gut.
Licorice:
This remedy is not world-famous for acid reflux, but a natural root form can calm symptoms. The best way to benefit from licorice is to go for deglycyrrhizinated root (herbal root to treat ulcers). Medications do not have this component, so they are dangerous for health.
Sleep on the left side:
Lying back can agitate acid in the stomach. In this position, it is easier for the sphincter to open and allows acid to move up. Sleeping on the left side relaxes the sphincter and keeps it above gastric acid level, so an elevation is created for acid to move up. So with an inclined angle, the chance of acid reflux is reduced.
Avoid certain foods:
Food intolerance varies from person to person; trigger foods could increase acid reflux: tomato base products, fried foods, alcohol, mint, garlic, and onions. People must keep a record of which food causes acid reflux.
Baking Soda:
Baking soda has a pH of 9.0; it works by absorbing hydrogen ions from acidic substances. It is mixed with a cup of water to prevent excess stomach acid. It shows a laxative effect when used in higher amounts. It is recommended to use seven teaspoons in one day for severe cases.
Slippery Elm:
It is an extract from tree native and serves a medicinal purpose against acid reflux. It is available as powdered bark or capsules. Honey can help by making it more palatable.
Suppose you have tried the home remedies mentioned above and failed to get any results. They do ensure meeting a gastroenterologist for help, as persistent cases of acid reflux can cause ulcers.