Acid Reflux: How to treat naturally (finally).
When my gut wasn’t healthy, I could feel that burning sensation in my throat, like something was stuck there, late at night or after a heavy meal. Antacids could make it feel better for me. But I knew that only worsened the condition, causing it to happen more often in the future.
Acid reflux can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are ways to treat it. This comprehensive guide covers everything you’ll want to know.
Learn the 3-phase process and 7 supplements for addressing heartburn naturally and becoming free.
Underlying likely root causes:
1. First, general body inflammation causes tissue damage and malfunction in the esophagus.
2. Second, when carbohydrates don’t digest well, this results in excess gas and bloating in the intestines, backing up the whole system.
3. Third, a deficiency in magnesium causes overtight muscles in the digestive system and backs up the system.
4. Fourth, low stomach acid causes reflux. When stomach acid comes up where it should not be, often it is not the amount of stomach acid that is the problem, but that it got pushed to where it shouldn’t be. Note: low stomach acid is common in our society as people age.
Have you been prescribed a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) for reflux? These work to reduce stomach acid. However, because reflux might be due to low stomach acid, it might do more harm than good. Therefore, seeking and identifying the root cause is essential for healing. As always, check with your doctor before making changes or stopping your medication.
Recurrent reflux can become severe and cause later complications when left untreated. The esophageal lining is delicate and needs protection from acid. So, take action immediately.
Action Plan for Acid Reflux: How to Treat Naturally
PHASE ONE: eliminate esophageal irritants and weakeners.
One of the first steps in treating acid reflux is to temporarily eliminate any irritants that may be causing or exacerbating the condition. This includes avoiding foods and beverages that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy foods, coffee, cigarettes, alcohol, and citrus fruits. Also, avoid any foods you know you have an intolerance to.
PHASE TWO: Make 8 lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms.
Yes, lifestyle changes are one of the best defenses against acid reflux. In addition to avoiding trigger foods and beverages, you can make several other lifestyle changes to reduce your symptoms.
1. One, maintain a healthy weight.
Yes, excess weight puts pressure on the stomach and increases the risk of acid reflux. Get tips and tricks for losing weight with “post”
2. Two, stop smoking.
In addition to the well-known health consequences of smoking you are most likely aware of, did you know smoking can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, worsening symptoms? Also, it stimulates acid production.
3. Three, avoid lying down after eating.
And one of the essential lifestyle modifications for treating acid reflux is to avoid lying down after eating. When you lay down, gravity no longer helps keep stomach acid in the stomach, which can lead to reflux. Instead, you should try to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after eating.
4. Four, manage stress to treat acid reflux naturally.
Of course, stress is a major trigger for many digestive symptoms, including acid reflux. Getting stress under control can be an essential component of your treatment.
Personally, I find this step of managing stress key to many aspects of health.
Read these posts all about reducing stress: Soothing Self-Care Ideas for Women Who Do Too Much, Stress: How To Relieve it to Ease Your Mind & Body, Natural Sleep Music, Aids & Tips.
5. Five, eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid overeating to avoid acid reflux.
As you probably have experienced, overeating can put pressure on the stomach and increase the likelihood of acid reflux. Instead, try to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help keep the stomach from becoming too full.
6. Six, avoid eating late at night.
And eating late at night can increase the risk of acid reflux, as going to bed and lying down after a meal can allow stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. To avoid this, try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime. If you get hungry before bed, opt for a light snack such as a piece of fruit or a small serving of yogurt instead of a heavy meal.
7. Seven, elevate the head of your bed to treat acid reflux symptoms in a natural way.
Another great tip is to elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches. To do this, place blocks or risers under the legs at the head of your bed or use a wedge pillow made for this purpose. Elevating the head of the bed helps to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus while you sleep, reducing the likelihood of reflux symptoms. It’s important to note that simply using extra pillows to prop yourself up may not be as effective, as this can put pressure on your stomach and worsen reflux symptoms.
8. Eight, avoid restrictive clothing.
You know how tight clothing feels terrible on your stomach, especially around the waist. This is because it squeezes the stomach and increases the likelihood of acid reflux. Avoid wearing tight belts, waistbands, or clothing that is too snug. Opt for looser, more comfortable clothing that doesn’t constrict your midsection. Cozy sweatpants, anyone?
PHASE THREE: Treat Acid Reflux Naturally with 7 Supplements, Herbs and Foods.
While lifestyle changes are often effective in managing acid reflux, some people may also benefit from natural supplements. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements to ensure they are safe and effective for you. Learn about many supplements below:
1. One, ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach.
Purchase easy-to-use ginger essential oil to reduce your inflammation here.
Read this post for a great, healing recipe with ginger Benefits of Ginger Tea & Lemon Ginger Tea Recipe.
2. Two, probiotics can help improve gut health and treat acid reflux symptoms. (1)
Purchase my favorite probiotic, Life 9, for digestion here.
3. Three, supplements for low stomach acid.
HCL betaine helps increase stomach acid levels to treat acid reflux.
4. Four, digestive bitters to naturally treat acid reflux.
Digestive bitters stimulate the production of digestive juices, including stomach acid. Some digestive bitters for acid reflux include gentian root, dandelion root, and artichoke leaf. And a popular brand is Urban Moonshine. (2)
5. Five, apple cider vinegar for acid reflux.
Apple cider vinegar is a trending natural remedy for acid reflux. It works by increasing your stomach acidity. To use apple cider vinegar for acid reflux, mix one to two tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it before meals. It’s important to note that apple cider vinegar can be harsh on tooth enamel; be sure to dilute it before consumption. You may also want to drink it through a straw.
6. Six, digestive enzymes to treat acid reflux.
Digestive enzymes are another supplement that can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. These enzymes help break down food in the stomach, reducing the likelihood of reflux. Look for a digestive enzyme supplement that contains protease, amylase, and lipase.
Also get more information about improving your gut health at Diets that reduce inflammation post.
7. Seven, chammomile and other herbs
Several herbs treat acid reflux. One of the most popular is Chamomile, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the esophagus and stomach lining. You can try drinking chamomile tea or taking supplements. Other herbs that may be helpful include slippery elm and marshmallow root.
Purchase digestive-friendly Chamomile essential oil here.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to cure or treat any medical conditions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consulting with a medical professional is strongly advised before taking any new herbs or supplements.
Conclusion: Acid Reflux: How to Treat Naturally
Underlying root causes are at the heart of reflux. (Just a little pun on “heartburn.”) These include: 1. General body inflammation, 2. Poorly digested carbohydrates, 3. Magnesium deficiency, and 4. Low stomach acid. Naturally treat your condition with a 3-Phase Plan.
First, eliminate esophageal irritants and weakeners. Second, make 8 lifestyle changes. Third, Treat Acid Reflux Naturally with 7 Supplements, Herbs and Foods.
Purchase the herbs and supplements you need for your acid reflux at: myyl.com/christie-kelemen.
(1) Do probiotics help with acid reflux? What to know (medicalnewstoday.com)
(2) Digestive Bitters – Urban Moonshine
Get and stay informed about reducing your inflammation and living a healthy lifestyle by signing up below.
