Acid reflux is also called as heartburn and it occurs when the acid in the stomach flows up and comes up into oesophagus. The potency of bile acids causes an acute burning sensation in the food pipe and the chest.
This can become very uncomfortable and the person starts to feel nauseous. Acid reflux also occurs due to the failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter, thus allowing the food and acids to travel up. There are several reasons behind this ranging from muscular failure, obesity, overeating and lying down after meals. Here are some simple steps and natural cures for treating acid reflux.
Tips To Cure Acid Reflux Naturally
Cut Back On Caffeine
If you are suffering from acid reflux, drinking strong caffeinated beverages like coffee and cola can exacerbate the symptoms. Coffee is strong and can actually worsen the symptoms of GERD (Gastro oesophageal reflux syndrome). The same goes for alcohol. Reduce alcohol consumption or avoid it totally to find symptomatic relief.
Take Moderate Exercise
Obesity gives rise to a host of digestive ailments like acid reflux, flatulence, gas and bloating. This is largely because of sedentary lifestyles and consumption of junk and fast food.
It is important to balance this out by taking moderate amounts of physical exercise every week. Exercising burns calories, gets rid of excess weight and also helps in optimal digestion thus reducing digestive ailments.
Eat Probiotics
Eating probiotic food like curd, milk, cheese and other dairy products increases the levels of good or healthy bacteria in the gut. These bacteria not only prevent the growth of parasites but also ensure that all digestive processes are carried out smoothly. You can also take probiotic supplements, which give the same benefits as given by dairy products.
Change Your Diet
Avoid eating foods that worsen the symptoms. These include starchy, refined, processed and fried foods. All of these increase the amount of gastric acids, thus worsening your symptoms. Switch to high quality fibre, unprocessed, raw foods, fruits and vegetables. Changing your diet will ensure that you remain hassle free and do not suffer from stomach ailments.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Take one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar dissolved in one glass of pure water before every meal. This has been found to be extremely beneficial in the treatment of severe episodes of acid reflux. It gives a lot of relief as it works very quickly. Having this just before a meal will also ensure that your tummy is slightly full thus preventing you from overeating.
Baking Soda
Drinking baking soda dissolved in water has also been found to be useful in treating very chronic cases of acid reflux.
Glutamine
Glutamine is a natural amino acid found in protein rich foods like eggs, organ meats and salmon. Eating regular servings of these glutamine rich foods reduces intestinal inflammation that typically occurs with acid reflux.
Herbal Liquorice
Liquorice had in its purest form helps to relieve intestinal disturbances. It works by covering the stomach in the form of a protective gel. Have it in the form of a tea, as this is quite soothing and refreshing.
Ginger Therapy
Use plenty of ginger in your foods and drinks to rid yourself of acid reflux. This is an oft-recommended treatment modality for pregnant women who suffer from frequent bouts of acid reflux. You can also use ginger in your tea or have it in the form of candy. Sipping on ginger ale or ginger tea will alleviate strong symptoms of acid reflux.
Apples
Apples are loaded in fibre and help to quell a host of digestive problems ranging from diarrhea, constipation and acid reflux. Crunch a few apples throughout the day and you will automatically begin to feel better after 2-3 days. If apples are not available, try pears as they offer the same health benefits.
Lemon Juice And Honey
Start your morning by drinking a glass of lemon juice with water and a teaspoon of honey. This gives an alkaline effect to your stomach thus reducing its acidity levels. The lemon juice also cleanses and detoxifies the system especially if you have had a bingeing fest the previous night.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is available at select chemist shops. Take a capsule of cayenne pepper along with a glass of water to remedy symptoms of chronic acidity.
Eat Frequently
Overloading the stomach will ensure that the food and the bile acids move up into the oesophagus. One way of preventing this is by eating small meals that have been spaced out throughout the day. Eat 5-6 small meals every 2-3 hours to prevent acid reflux. Small meals allow the stomach to comfortably digest the food and minimize chances of suffering from a bout of acid reflux.
Drink Enough Water
Make sure you drink enough water as water helps to dilute the potency of stomach acids, thus reducing heartburn and oesophageal irritation.
Colon Cleansing
See a doctor and ask him/her to put you on a colon-cleansing programme. This is done by eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. The doctor may also administer an enema to cleanse your bowels. This therapy done over a few days will give you symptomatic relief.
Fennel Seeds
Eat a teaspoon of fennel seeds after every meal. This helps to aid digestion and reduces discomfort brought on by acid reflux.
Cut Down On Stress
Extreme stress can also lead to acid reflux. The best way to combat this is by reducing stress. Do relaxing exercises like yoga and meditation. Take frequent breaks from work and go on vacations. Spend quality time with the family and friends.
Chewing Gum
Chew on some sugarless gum after a meal. It helps to reduce the potency of acid and helps to wash down the acid due to the increased production of saliva.
Aloe Vera Juice
Drinking aloe Vera juice can also help in reducing the symptoms of acid reflux. Doctors, however, advise that this juice must be taken with caution as it has a laxative effect and can induce episodes of diarrhea. Stick to the tried and tested home cures and lifestyle remedies to deal with acid reflux.
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