10 remedies for acid reflux
Heartburn or acid indigestion is another name that refers to acid reflux. The discomfort and pain associated with acid reflux are very common throughout the world.
This pain and discomfort can cause coughing, hoarseness, constant ear pain, or a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), sometimes spreading to the throat. Over time, complications from acid reflux can lead to:
* Narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture). Scar tissue narrows the path of food, causing difficulty swallowing.
* An open sore in the esophagus (esophageal ulcer). Stomach acid can severely erode the tissues of the esophagus, causing an open sore to form.
* Precancerous changes in the esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus). In Barrett’s esophagus, the color and composition of the tissue that lines the lower part of the esophagus changes.
What causes acid reflux?
Acid reflux is caused by the buildup of stomach acid or bile in the esophagus. When you swallow, the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow into the stomach. Then it closes again.
However, if this valve relaxes abnormally or becomes weak, stomach acid can back up into the esophagus. This continuous backwashing of acid can irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing it to become inflamed (esophagitis) and causing the symptoms mentioned above.
Acid Reflux Cures
Once you have gone through all the tests, such as an X-ray of your upper digestive system or passing a flexible tube down your throat. Treatment for acid reflux usually begins with over-the-counter medications that aim to control acid. Some of these treatments include:
* Antacids that neutralize stomach acid. Antacids, such as Mylanta, Gelusil, Rolaids, and Tums. These can be purchased in tablet or liquid form. Excessive use of some of these products can cause side effects such as diarrhea or constipation.
* Medications to reduce acid production. Like H-2 blockers, these include cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR), or ranitidine (Zantac 75). These don’t work as quickly as antacids, but they do provide longer-lasting relief.
* Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus. These proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole and omeprazole. (See our video on proton pump inhibitors)
Stronger medications can be applied, and if all else fails, surgeries and other procedures are also available.
So what are the 10 natural remedies for acid reflux?
If you feel the onset of symptoms associated with acid reflux, there are several natural remedies that you can use to help you get rid of burning sensations in your throat, chest, etc. Here are 10 natural remedies for acid reflux that people have found to work for them. These natural solutions have helped relieve or cure your acid reflux, but always see your doctor if you have any concerns.
1. Dried mint leaves, soak 1 teaspoon in a cup of water and drink. One cup a day for a week.
2. Eat a mango a day or when you feel acid reflux is active.
3. Marshmallow root tincture, instructions on the bottle.
4. Sensitivity to gluten. I try to eliminate all grains from my diet, for example, wheat, oats, and barley are the most common sources of gluten in the Standard American Diet (SAD). It may take several weeks on a gluten-free diet for reflux symptoms to gradually subside.
5. Yellow mustard. 2 teaspoons when you feel the acid reflux kicking in. Yummy!
6. Boil the okra for a minute, remove the seeds, and then eat 6 or more pieces a day…with one meal. Okra is said to help heal inflammation of the LOWER esophageal sphincter.
7.Orange peel extract (1000mg every other day)
8. Pickle juice. Also eat pickles, eg pickled asparagus/pickled cauliflower, pickled beets, etc.
9.apples. Eat a few apple slices before meals and before bed.
10.ALOE VERA. Make your own, get some aloe vera, peel off the skin, and just add water to the goo. mix and drink or just buy at health food stores.