Natural Cures for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is caused when the acids in the stomach flow back into the food pipe (esophagus). This flow of acid to the esophagus will usually bring about the following symptoms – heartburn, nausea, chest pain, sour taste in the mouth, and regurgitation of foods and liquids. The cause of acid reflux is usually attributed to improper dietary habits and poor lifestyle. Some of the common factors that increase the chances of acid reflux are a stressful lifestyle, alcohol abuse, and cigarette smoking. Acid reflux may also happen due to a biological condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle malfunctions. The LES muscle is responsible for the flow of food and liquid into the stomach, and weakening of this muscle can result in the backward flow of stomach acid to the esophagus.

Depending upon the cause of your acid reflux problem, treatments may involve medications and surgery. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, it is advisable that you consult a doctor and undergo proper medical treatment. However, mild cases of acid reflux may be taken care with a bit of dietary and lifestyle changes. Here are some common home remedies that you can try out to get over the symptoms of acid reflux:

• One common and easy remedy for acid reflux is to chew on antacids. Antacids may help you get quick relief from heartburn or other symptoms associated with this condition. However, use of antacids may give you only temporary relief. Moreover, regular use of antacids is also not advisable as it may lead to complications, usually in the form of constipation or diarrhea.

• Alkaline drinks like baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) solution can also provide some instant relief. Mix baking soda in water and drink the solution to get relief from acid reflux symptoms. However, this is also a type of antacid, and is therefore a temporary solution, not a cure. Besides, this practice should not be used frequently as it may worsen your condition further. People with high blood pressure are also advised against using this solution.

• Drink herbal tea made with fennel seeds, lavender, and aniseed. To prepare the herbal tea, boil these ingredients in water, strain it into a glass, and add some honey to it. Drinking this herbal tea regularly can provide relief from acid reflux symptoms.

• Plan your diet in such a way that you have plenty of leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, legumes, dairy products, chicken, fish and eggs. Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and all caffeinated or carbonated drinks. Also, avoid eating heavy meals and going to bed immediately after a meal.