7 Natural Ways to Manage Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a digestive condition that causes stomach acid to flow back up the food pipe, leading to a sharp burning sensation and discomfort. People with this condition may have to be on medications, change their lifestyle, stay away from greasy and spicy foods, and follow the below effective natural remedies for acid reflux to get relief.
1. Basil leaf tea
Basil leaves are one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux. At the first sign of acid reflux, boil some basil leaves in water, let it simmer for a few minutes, and then strain and drink the tea. This helps soothe the food pipe.
2. Elimination diet
Some of the most common foods that lead to acid reflux are fatty foods, caffeinated foods and beverages, spicy foods, garlic, onion, and tomatoes. If you are worried about triggering your symptoms of acid reflux, you should stay away from these food choices. Healthy home-cooked meals with minimal fat and spices and lots of proteins and fiber are perfect for those with this condition.
3. Stay away from alcohol
This is something you have to do if you do not want to live with exaggerated symptoms of acid reflux. Alcohol ruins the pH balance in the gut and damages the esophageal flap. This can lead to the stomach acid traveling up the food pipe. Avoid alcohol, especially before going to bed.
4. Chew gum
You may be surprised but this is also one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux. Chewing gum contains bicarbonate which boosts saliva production. Excess saliva clears the food pipe of the acid from the stomach. While this is not a treatment for acid reflux, it helps to reduce the severity of the condition.
5. Avoid citrus
Citrus fruits are acidic and consuming them can intensify the symptoms of acid reflux in individuals that have been diagnosed with the condition. The acid in citrus fruits can irritate the linings of the gut and the esophagus and this can cause pH imbalance.
6. Have your dinner early
Another among the effective natural remedies for acid reflux is to have your dinner early. When you have your dinner after 9 PM and go to bed immediately after, it is easier for the acid to flow back into the esophagus. Eat your dinner early and stay up for at least 3 hours to help digest the food and avoid acid reflux.
7. Lose weight
Increased body weight can make the esophageal sphincter/flap weak. This can result in the occurrence of acid reflux. Losing even a few pounds will have an impact on the severity of symptoms and frequency of occurrence of this condition.
All the above-mentioned effective natural remedies for acid reflux can be practiced safely at home along with your medications, if there are any. A healthy lifestyle, eating fresh meals, and staying physically active can also help manage the condition.