Finding Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux and GERD is a very attractive option to people that are untrusting of medication and pharmaceuticals. It is also something that might be considered by those finding their typical relief options are not working. So knowing what these ideas are is definitely worth looking into.
For me, Natural Remedies hold precedence over everything in my own opinion. As much as I will say you should always listen to doctors and medical professionals before anyone else. Still, many do not seem to offer much in terms of alternative medicine advice. Ayurvedic Traditions and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are great examples for me of what’s possible and some of the plants and herbs these cultural traditions recommend are helpful for Acid Reflux.
So let’s just quickly summarize what these are;
12 Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux and GERD Relief That You Simply Must Try!
For anyone that does not want to have to read this full article to find out what these 12 remedies are. Here is the list;
- Chamomile,
- Licorice Root,
- Marshmallow root,
- Slippery elm.
- Ginger,
- Oatmeal,
- Bananas,
- Melons,
- Green Leafy Vegetables,
- Whole Grains,
- Aloe Vera
- Apple Cider Vinegar
*Hemp (CBD) I think is another that could maybe be added to this list. I know this is controversial but I will also add a short section about CBD for Acid Reflux towards the end…
So, Acid reflux is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, causing, amongst other things, a burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn.
This condition can have a significant impact on daily life, as it can cause discomfort and disrupt normal activities.
In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and impact of acid reflux on daily life, as well as the drawbacks of traditional medications and the growing popularity of natural remedies for acid reflux relief.
Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Impact on Daily Life
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus, does not close properly.
This allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Common causes of acid reflux include;
- Obesity,
- Pregnancy,
- Certain Medications,
- Lifestyle Factors and
- An Unsuitable Diet
The most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, which is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest.
Other symptoms may include regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and hoarseness.
These symptoms can be disruptive to daily life, making it difficult to eat, sleep, and engage in normal activities.
The Drawbacks of Traditional Medications: Side Effects and Long-Term Risks
Traditional medications and pharmaceuticals used to treat acid reflux include;
- Antacids,
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs),
- H2 blockers.
While these medications can provide temporary relief from symptoms, they come with their own set of drawbacks.
- Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, but they can cause side effects such as diarrhea or constipation.
- PPIs reduce the production of stomach acid, but long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, kidney disease, and nutrient deficiencies.
- H2 blockers also reduce stomach acid production, but they can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and diarrhea.
*Many people report these side effects for all these medications and there are certainly long-term risks that coincide. My advice would be to get tested for high/low stomach acid levels because the results may surprise you.
[Read More HERE]
So if you have low stomach acid this can cause Acid Reflux in other ways, and if this is the case none of the above medications are suitable and should actually in fact be avoided. In this case, I would instead recommend something to increase stomach acid levels but getting back to the main topic…
Harnessing the Power of Nature: How Natural Remedies Can Provide Relief
Natural remedies for acid reflux have gained popularity in recent years due to their effectiveness and lack of side effects. These remedies harness the power of nature to provide relief from symptoms without the risks associated with traditional medications. One of the benefits of natural remedies is that they often address the root cause of acid reflux, rather than just masking the symptoms.
For example, certain herbs and plant-based foods can help strengthen the LES and improve digestion, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux occurring.
Also, natural remedies can provide relief without disrupting the natural balance of stomach acid, which is important for proper digestion and healthy living. I already shared my list at the beginning of this article but let’s take a closer look…
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Herbal Remedies for Acid Reflux: A Closer Look at Effective Options
There are several herbal remedies that have been found to be effective for acid reflux relief. Way more than the 12 that I shared in my initial list. Altogether, these herbs include;
- Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the lining of the esophagus.
- Licorice root has been used for centuries to treat digestive issues and can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus.
- Marshmallow root forms a protective layer in the esophagus, reducing irritation and promoting healing.
- Slippery elm can help coat and soothe the lining of the esophagus, providing relief from heartburn.
Scientific evidence supports the use of these herbs for acid reflux relief. Many examples can be found with a simple Google search for research papers. For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Chamomile extract reduced inflammation in the esophagus and improve symptoms of acid reflux. [R]
And another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that licorice root extract reduced symptoms of acid reflux and improved quality of life.
Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm are likewise supported by research but another thing to note is that these two and Licorice Root are popular treatments in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The Role of Diet in Managing Acid Reflux: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Embrace
Diet plays a crucial role in managing acid reflux symptoms. Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen symptoms, while others can help alleviate them.
Foods to avoid for individuals with acid reflux include;
- spicy foods,
- fatty foods,
- citrus fruits,
- tomatoes,
- onions, garlic,
- chocolate,
- caffeine, and alcohol.
These foods can relax the LES and increase the production of stomach acid, leading to acid reflux symptoms.
On the other hand, there are foods that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
These include;
- Ginger,
- Oatmeal,
- Bananas,
- Melons,
- Green Leafy Vegetables,
- Whole Grains,
- Lean Proteins, and
- Probiotic-rich Foods.
These foods can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and promote healthy digestion. The last two I have not included them on this list because they are not whole-food plant-based (WFPB) in origin but these are also good to consider. Especially Probiotics because establishing a healthy gut microbiome is essential for neutralizing acid reflux and for maintaining clean and healthy saliva.
However, other factors should be noted when it comes to better management of Acid Reflux and GERD symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes for Acid Reflux Relief
In addition to diet, certain lifestyle changes can help manage acid reflux symptoms.
For Instance, regular exercise and fitness training is important for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of acid reflux. Exercise can also help improve digestion and reduce stress levels.
Then stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can also help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Stress can increase the production of stomach acid and weaken the LES, making it more likely for acid reflux to occur.
Other lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux symptoms include eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and elevating the head of the bed while sleeping.
But enough about this because this is not today’s topic. Let’s get back to our 12 Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux…
#11 – The Healing Power of Aloe Vera: How This Plant Can Soothe Acid Reflux Symptoms
A
loe vera is a plant that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It is known for its soothing effect on the skin, but it can also provide relief for acid reflux symptoms.
Aloe Vera works by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and promoting healing. It can also help soothe the lining of the esophagus, reducing the burning sensation associated with acid reflux.
Scientific evidence supports the use of aloe vera for acid reflux relief. A study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that aloe vera juice reduced symptoms of acid reflux and improved quality of life.
Another study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health found that aloe vera gel reduced inflammation in the esophagus and improved symptoms of acid reflux.
To use aloe vera for acid reflux relief, it is recommended to drink a small amount of aloe vera juice or gel before meals. It is important to choose a high-quality product that is free from additives and preservatives.
#12 – Apple Cider Vinegar for Acid Reflux Relief
Apple cider vinegar is another natural remedy that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms. It works by increasing the acidity of the stomach, which can help improve digestion and reduce the likelihood of acid reflux occurring.
To use apple cider vinegar for acid reflux relief, it is recommended to mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it before meals. If you have a water purifier (which I highly recommend) for the best drinking water ACV is a great way to help remineralize the water in a lot of ways.
You don’t want to be drinking ACV on its own. It is important to dilute the apple cider vinegar, as undiluted vinegar can be harsh on the esophagus.
However, while apple cider vinegar can provide relief for acid reflux symptoms, it is important to use it in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
*If you read above what I said about Low Stomach Acid being an often undiagnosed cause of Acid Reflux ACV can be a good thing to try for this and can save you the trouble of being tested. If it helps then this likely will mean too much stomach acid is not actually the problem. Low Stomach Acid is also a health issue that might need to be addressed with Acid Reflux.
*I will save this for another post I think but let’s now take a look at another popular natural remedy to try…
#5 – Ginger: A Natural Remedy for Digestive Health and Acid Reflux Prevention
G
inger is a root that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is known for its ability to promote digestive health and prevent acid reflux.
Ginger works by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting healthy digestion.
It can also help strengthen the LES and reduce the production of stomach acid, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux occurring.
There are several ways to incorporate ginger into a daily routine for acid reflux relief.
One option is to drink ginger tea, which can be made by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Or another option is to add fresh ginger to meals or smoothies.
Ginger supplements are also available, but it is important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable source*
While ginger is generally safe for most people, it can cause side effects such as heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort in some individuals.
It is important to use ginger in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions or if you are taking any kind of medication.
#4 – The Benefits of Slippery Elm: How This Herb Can Provide Relief from Acid Reflux
Slippery elm is a herb that has been used for centuries for its soothing properties. It is a popular natural remedy in Native American culture. For Acid Reflux, Slippery Elm can help relieve symptoms by coating and soothing the lining of the esophagus. It works by forming a gel-like substance when mixed with water.
This gel coats the lining of the esophagus, reducing irritation and promoting healing.
It can also help reduce inflammation in the esophagus, reducing the burning sensation associated with acid reflux.
To use slippery elm for acid reflux relief, it is recommended to mix one teaspoon of slippery elm powder with water and drink it before meals. However, It is important to choose a high-quality product that is free from additives and preservatives.
Whilst Slippery Elm is generally safe for most people, it can cause side effects such as nausea and constipation in some individuals. So, It is important to use in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications. So…
*These are my 12 picks for Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux and GERD but here is another…
How About CBD For Acid Reflux and GERD?
In recent years, the interest in alternative remedies for managing digestive issues has grown, and one intriguing option that has garnered attention is CBD (cannabidiol). Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound known for its potential health benefits. And although research is still in its early stages, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that CBD might offer some relief for individuals dealing with acid reflux.
This may be the case for a number of reasons. Each I will briefly discuss below;
#1 – Calming Inflammation:
One of the primary ways in which CBD is thought to potentially assist with acid reflux is through its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the progression of GERD and acid reflux symptoms. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which is responsible for regulating various physiological processes, including inflammation. By modulating this system, CBD has shown the ability to reduce inflammation, potentially providing relief to the inflamed esophageal tissues often seen in acid reflux sufferers.
#2 – Regulating Gut Motility:
Another intriguing aspect of CBD is its potential impact on gut motility – the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract. Disruptions in gut motility can contribute to acid reflux by causing delays in digestion and increasing the likelihood of stomach contents flowing back into the esophagus.
Some research suggests that CBD may have a regulatory effect on gut motility, helping to promote more efficient digestion and reducing the instances of acid reflux.
#3 – Managing Stress and Anxiety:
Stress and anxiety are known triggers for acid reflux episodes. CBD has gained attention for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. By promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, CBD could potentially help individuals manage stress-related triggers that contribute to their acid reflux symptoms.
In the quest for effective acid reflux relief, CBD presents an intriguing avenue that aligns with the growing interest in holistic and natural approaches to health. As more studies delve into the potential benefits of CBD, individuals seeking relief from acid reflux symptoms may find a complementary option that offers a unique approach to managing their digestive health.
{Read More About CBD In Our Articles HERE}
In Conclusion
In conclusion, acid reflux is a common condition that can have a significant impact on daily life. Traditional medications used to treat acid reflux come with side effects and long-term risks, which has led some individuals to seek natural alternatives.
Natural remedies such as aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and slippery elm may help provide relief from acid reflux symptoms without the risks associated with traditional medications.
In addition to natural remedies, lifestyle changes such as diet modifications, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can also help manage acid reflux symptoms.
However, either way, It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle. I hope this information has been helpful, and if you would like to read more articles about Acid Reflux and GERD check out our main page HERE<<
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