Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Normally, a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), acts like a valve, opening to allow food and liquids to enter the stomach and closing to prevent them from flowing back up into the esophagus.
When the LES becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and even respiratory problems like coughing or wheezing.
Factors that can contribute to acid reflux include certain foods and drinks, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain medications, and certain medical conditions like hiatal hernia. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, medications to reduce acid production or strengthen the LES, and in severe cases, surgery.
# Dietary adjustments: Avoiding trigger foods and beverages that can worsen acid reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
# Smaller meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can help prevent overeating, which can trigger acid reflux.
# Raise the head of your bed: Elevating the head of your bed by about 6 to 8 inches by using bed risers or placing blocks under the bedposts can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus while you sleep.
# Weight management: Losing weight if you are overweight or obese can help reduce pressure on the abdomen, which may decrease the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms.
# Chew gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux.
# Baking soda: Mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drinking it can help neutralize stomach acid temporarily. However, it's essential to use baking soda sparingly as it contains sodium, and frequent use can lead to side effects like excessive gas and belching.
# Ginger: Consuming ginger tea or chewing on ginger slices may help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
# Aloe vera: Drinking aloe vera juice may soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation associated with acid reflux. Ensure it's specifically formulated for internal use.
# Apple cider vinegar: Although it might seem counterintuitive, some people find relief from acid reflux symptoms by diluting a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in water and drinking it before meals. However, evidence supporting its effectiveness is anecdotal, and it's not suitable for everyone.
# Licorice: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) supplements may help soothe the lining of the esophagus and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.