Acid Reflux Remedies
September 19, 2009 by admin
Filed under Acid Reflux Remedies
GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease) commonly known as Acid Reflux happens when the acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus burning it. Which cause the suffer discomfort and pain, sometime being severe. So, what cause the reflux to get into the esophagus? It’s usually caused by a week lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or a hiatal hernia.
So what can you do about the discomfort and persistent heartburn caused by acid reflux? You basically have two choices:
1) Medical, which can be broken up into two sub-categories:
a. Pharmaceutical, taking such prescriptions as NEXIUM, the purple pill. But, this is a very expensive option, especially for those who do not have medical insurance, a one month supply cost around $160.
b. Surgical, this entails repairing the hiatal hernia or strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter. Of course this is the most intrusive option available.
2) Home Acid Reflux Remedies
Before you opt for the more expensive medical options, here are some Acid Reflux Remedies that you should try at home first.
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods such as certain peppers, pineapple, citrus, tomato, and chocolate.
- Avoid acidic and caffeinated drinks such as alcohol, soft drinks and coffee. Try drinking water it’s the natural beverage.
- Even though it is acidic, many heartburn suffers find relief drinking a little bit of apple cider vinegar. If you cannot handle the taste try pickle juice. These types of acids will also aids in digestion
- Drink plenty of water especially with meal as this will strengthen the LES muscles.
- Eating soft food for a couple of day will allow the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to heal. Hard foods will scrape against the esophagus.
- Overeating can trigger heartburn, trying smaller meals more frequently (6 times verse 3). Also completely chew your food into smaller pieces.
- If you smoke – quit! The chemicals found in cigarettes smoke will further damage the LES muscles.
- Try making a tea from Slippery Elm bark to reduce symptoms.
- A teaspoon of raw honey can do wonders in the healing process, as well provide a coating for the esophagus.
- Some natural home remedy experts swear by drinking Aloe Vera juice for healing the sphincter, just make sure it’s the editable version found in many health food stores.
- If you are over weight, do what is necessary to drop those extra pounds as obesity contributes to Acid Reflux.
If the above home Acid Reflux Remedies does not being you any comfort or relief see your doctor. Your Acid Reflux maybe caused by severe damage to the esophagus or lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or you may have a hiatal hernia. Your doctor may refer you to a Gastrologist for specialized treatment.
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