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The technical term for acid reflux is gastro esophageal Reflux disease. It is essentially a condition where the digestive juices from the stomach, mixed with the liquid content of you food mix and back up into the esophagus. This causes a burning sensation in the centre of the chest and in the throat. What essentially happens is this liquid comes in contact with the lining of the esophagus and that’s what is actually causing the burning. This is a natural process and happens to all of us sometimes. The problem arises when this problem becomes chronic. The lining of the esophagus is very delicate and the acid that comes in contact with it starts to erode this lining. This can lead to esophageal cancer.

Common causes for acid reflux can be linked to various causes. Stress is on the top of the list. This is followed by smoking and the consumption of alcohol. Our modern lifestyles demand time and fast food which is a common choice for the working man also causes this condition. In some cases it has been observed that when the esophageal muscles get weak due to diseases like scleroderma. In cases like these a malfunction of a group of muscle tissue known as the Lower Esophageal Sphincter causes acid reflux.

Some simple home remedies can help curb and provide relief from acid reflux.

• Using Ginger Root: is very effective way to counter acid reflux. Make a mixture of finely minced ginger and honey and eat it before your meal.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: may sound crazy, as it is also acidic, but has long been known to ease heart-burn. Mix about two table spoons of it with water or honey and consume along with your meals.
• Cumin Seeds: adding cumin seeds to water and soaking it for a few hours and then having it along with your meal helps with relieving acid reflux.

Besides relieving the discomfort associated with acid reflux one can also focus on taking preventive steps to counter this condition:

• Maintaining an upright posture while eating will help prevent acid reflux as it allows gravity to act on the contents of your stomach (this sounds bizarre but really works).
• Eating lighter meals frequently helps prevent acid reflux. Avoid snaking two to three hours before bedtime.
• Peppermint, chocolate, tomatoes, grapefruit, oranges, fatty foods, and alcohol are known to cause some problems associated with esophageal sphincter problems. Avoiding these foods in excess can help prevent the occurrence acid reflux.