11 Natural Ways To Treat The Problem Of Acid Reflux

The loop of muscle in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is responsible for letting the food go into your stomach, but if this muscle rests when it not supposed to, this causes acid reflux. A feeling of heartburn happens when the acid from your stomach goes back up your esophagus.

Acid reflux happens because of the acid from the stomach comes up into the long tube connecting the throat to the stomach. This condition is described by a burning pain in the lower chest area or heartburn. When you bend or lie down the pain becomes aggravated.

An acute or chronic acid reflux is also called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In the long run, acid reflux can lead to severe health problems like Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer, if it not treated.

# Slippery Elm

Slippery elm has a substance that soothes irritated and inflamed mucous membrane of the esophagus and the stomach lining. To use this home remedy, mix two cups of hot water with two tablespoons of powdered slippery elm bark. Leave the mixture for five minutes. Take these orally three times daily until the symptoms disappear.

# Sleeping Positions

Sleeping on your left-side can help alleviate acid reflux according to some studies. It was discovered that lying on your stomach or on the right side can worsen the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

# Relax

Having a relaxed mind and body may be beneficial in controlling GERD since this condition can be very stressful. Thereby, helping the esophageal muscle to properly assume its role in keeping stomach acids down where they should be.

There are different ways to gain a relaxed mind and body. Doing yoga can contribute tremendously in achieving a mind and body consciousness. Quiet meditation and deep breathing are also highly recommended for this.

# Healthy Meals

It is a fact that no particular kind of food that can control acid reflux. There are trigger foods that need to be avoided when you are suffering from heartburn. It is sometimes necessary to alter your daily diet.

A low-fat, high protein meal is highly recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is also important to lessen dietary fat in your diet and consume enough protein and fiber to keep you full to avoid overeating.

# Fennel

Fennel is known to help enhance digestion and control stomach agitations. This herb has an anethole substance that can aid in calming gastrointestinal tract spasms. It has also anti-inflammatory effects.

After meals, eat half a teaspoon of fennel seeds. Alternatively, you can boil in a cup of water one teaspoon of fennel seeds. Let it stand for ten minutes. Strain and drink these two or three times a day for several days.

# Lime

This is one of the safest and an excellent digestive home remedy that anyone can do. Drink a cup of warm water and fresh lemon juice first thing in the morning. The body will naturally balance out its acid level when you take this on an empty stomach for about twenty minutes before breakfast.

# Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow has the same soothing and gentle substance like slippery elm. It safeguards the mucosal lining of the stomach and esophagus because it is rich in mucilage.

Put two tablespoons of dried marshmallow root to four cups of water. Let it soak for the whole night. Strain the mixture in the morning. Consume this a few times a day until you feel well.

# Licorice

Licorice tea can provide relief by creating a thin layer of mucus in the lining of the esophagus. This protects it from the acids that come from the stomach. Simply make a tea from the licorice root. This has a calming effect and very efficient in treating acid reflux.

# Mustard

Mustard is a food which is rich in minerals. It consists of a weak acid in the form of vinegar. You can get the best result if you eat it straight. It will eventually facilitate in neutralizing the acid in the stomach because of its alkaline properties and help control the pain associated with acid reflux. Mustard can give an immediate relief when you are having, or about to have, heartburn.

# Carrot

Fresh carrot juice is very good for getting an immediate relief from acid reflux. You can also mix carrot juice with cabbage juice to help you control this condition. Simply drink this juice whenever you have acid reflux or heartburn.

# Weight Watch

You will likely suffer from heartburn when you are overweight because the added weight will put pressure on your lower esophageal sphincter. This increases your risk of GERD. Over time, the esophageal muscles loosen and become weak which can contribute to acid reflux.