Acid Reflux

When the stomach acids regurgitate upwards into the esophagus with burning sensation then it is termed as acid reflux (or acid indigestion). It is a digestive problem that causes pain and the condition becomes worse when you bend or lie down.

It causes heartburn, bloating, bad breath, sore throat, difficulty in breathing, burning sensation in the chest, belching, etc. There are many triggers like fatty foods, citrus fruits, oily or spicy foods, etc. that cause acid reflux.

Instead of using expensive over the counter drugs for acid reflux, you can try using a natural and inexpensive treatment at home with baking soda.

Baking soda has been a popular remedy for treating many digestive problems like stomachache, stomach gas, bloating, upset stomach, heartburn and now comes acid reflux.

In this article, we are learning all about baking soda to treat acid reflux in detail. Let’s get started.

How Does Baking Soda work for Acid Reflux?

• Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate has alkaline nature that helps to neutralize the acids in the stomach and thereby reduces the reverse flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
• It provides a proper balance of acid/alkaline levels in the stomach and reduces the burning sensation or tightness in the chest.
• It plays a role in maintaining a balanced pH level in the body and bloodstream which, in turn, reduces acidity in the stomach and also prevents the recurrence of acid reflux.
• It acts as a natural antacid that effectively relieves your acid indigestion, stomach upset, sour stomach, heartburn, etc.

How to Treat Acid Reflux using Baking Soda?

Here are the best ways of using baking soda for treating acid reflux. Have a look at these methods and follow them regularly to get quick relief from acid reflux.

Method – 1: (Baking Soda)

The baking soda for acid reflux remedy will come in solution form i.e., baking soda has to be mixed with water. Here is the detailed process.

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 glass of water.
• Stir well till baking soda dissolves completely in water.
• Drink it twice daily to get rid of acid reflux.

Note: If you’re suffering from frequent attacks of acid reflux (GERD), then you should not use this method, as it raises blood pressure and swelling.

Method – 2: (Baking Soda with Honey)

Baking soda neutralizes the acid content in the stomach and honey soothes the stomach to prevent irritation and burning sensation caused by acid reflux.

• Mix 1 teaspoon each of raw honey and baking soda in 1 cup of warm water.
• Stir well till all the ingredients are mixed well.
• Drink this solution whenever you get acid reflux to get rid of the problem.

Note: Or simply mix 1/2 teaspoon each of baking soda and fresh lemon juice in 1 cup of warm water. Stir well till the fizz stops and drink it to get relief from acid reflux.

Method – 3: (Baking Soda with Apple Cider Vinegar)

Apple cider vinegar treats acid reflux by calming the irritated stomach and also provides essential nutrients needed for proper digestion and gut’s health.

• Mix 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water.
• Stir well and drink it on an empty stomach to get relief from the acid reflux.
• Repeat the intake of this mix as needed to get relief from the problem.

Note:

• Or mix 2 tablespoons each of baking soda and cider vinegar in 1 glass of water and drink it twice daily to get relief from GERD (a severe form of acid reflux).
• Also, mix 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and apple cider vinegar in 1 glass of water. Stir well and sip it slowly to get rid of the problem.

Tips and Precautions:

1. Baking soda, if used in excess then it causes stomach gas, nausea, increased thirst, abdominal cramps, headache, etc.
2. Pregnant or nursing women and children should consult their doctor before using baking soda for acid reflux.
3. It may interact with certain medications and the sodium content in the baking soda will increase blood pressure. So, people suffering from any health problem or taking medications should consult their doctor before using it.
4. Reduce your overweight by doing some regular exercises, as overweight is the main trigger for acid reflux.
5. Avoid foods that trigger acid reflux, drink plenty of water and consume easily to digest healthy food to prevent the recurrence of acid reflux.
6. Never ever lay down or bend after consuming your food and there should be a gap of 2 – 3 hours. It’s preferred to raise your head at night bedtime to get rid of the problem. Acid reflux pillows can be helpful for the same. In case, if you don’t know how to choose the right one, we have explained it “HERE” for you.
7. Always wear loose clothes and quit smoking to get rid of the problem.
8. Consult your doctor for proper diagnose and treatment, if you didn’t get relief from the problem or experiencing the problem more frequently.
9. Baking soda is not meant for long time usage, as it causes some serious health problems if used for longer time.

Try these baking soda methods for acid reflux and share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Are you suffering from burning sensation in the stomach or heaviness in the chest with hoarseness, especially after taking food? Then you’re suffering from acid reflux.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux (or acid indigestion) is caused when the stomach contents or acid coming back into the esophagus due to the improper close of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is a painful health problem that causes heartburn, abdominal pain, sour taste, bloating, burning sensation in the intestine, etc.

However, there are many over the counter medications and antacids that treat this condition but the usage of these medications may cause some side effects with temporary relief.

In certain cases, the acid reflux occurs when there is enough stomach acid to break down or digest the food, which in turn, causes inflammation in the esophageal wall. So, in this case, apple cider vinegar (ACV) works best in treating acid reflux.

Here, in this article, we are going to know all about apple cider vinegar for acid reflux. Let’s get started.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good for Acid Reflux?

We all know that apple cider vinegar is prepared from crushed apple in which the bacteria and yeast will be added to ferment the liquid till we get a brownish cloudy appearance of apple cider vinegar with the mother content. Always remember to use raw, organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar for treating various hair, health and skin problems, including acid reflux due to its rich content of enzymes, pectin, and proteins.

Acid reflux is caused due to the result of too little stomach acid for proper digestion. The intake of apple cider vinegar (ACV) will increase the acid content in the stomach and thereby aids in proper digestion to get rid of this acid reflux or GERD along with its symptoms effectively.

In a study, it is stated that apple cider vinegar can prevent you from the attacks of acid reflux or heartburn but need more research to determine that apple cider vinegar is a consistent and effective way to treat the acid reflux.

How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Work for Acid Reflux?

• Apple cider vinegar prevents the stomach acid from moving up into the esophagus. It calms your irritated stomach by restoring the stomach’s pH balance.
• The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar will provide the essential acidity to the esophagus and thus help to break down the food properly and digest it easily.
• It is enriched with many essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, etc. which aids in proper mineral absorption and thereby proper digestion of food and weight loss.
• The acetic acid in the vinegar helps to fight against the harmful bacteria or other foreign bodies for proper digestion and to enhance the gut’s health.
• It provides the body with various vitamins and traces of minerals that help to build an alkaline environment in the body. This, in turn, reduces acidity in your stomach, kills harmful bacteria in foods and aids in proper digestion.

How to Treat Acid Reflux using Apple Cider Vinegar:

There are several ways of using apple cider vinegar to treat acid reflux. But here we will discuss the best and effective ways. Let’s have a look at these methods.

Method – 1: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Water)

This is the simple and most common way of using apple cider vinegar for acid reflux.

• Mix 1 teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar in 1 glass of water (prefer lukewarm water).
• Drink it before taking meals or whenever you suffer from the attack of acid reflux.
• If you want, add some honey to this water before drinking.

Note:

• You can increase the quantity of apple cider vinegar up to 2 tablespoons mixed in 8 ounces of water.
• Also, use this apple cider vinegar for GERD by simply using it as your salad dressing (or) add it to your fruits juices, smoothies, healthy drinks or in cooking.
• Never ever drink undiluted ACV, as it causes irritation of the esophagus and damages your tooth enamel.

Method – 2: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey)

Both honey and apple cider vinegar has rich content of potassium which helps to neutralize the stomach acids. Honey soothes the irritated and inflamed esophagus with its soothing properties.

• Mix 2 tablespoons each of organic apple cider vinegar and raw honey.
• Consume this mixture slowly to get relief from the acid reflux symptoms.
• Repeat the same regularly whenever you suffer from acid reflux.

Method – 3: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Baking Soda)

Baking soda acts as an antacid that neutralizes the stomach acid to a great extent. Baking soda helps to neutralize the acidity of apple cider vinegar and makes it not to cause any tooth enamel erosion or dental sensitivity.

• Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 250 mg of water (8 ounces).
• Stir well and drink it on an empty stomach to get relief from acid reflux.
• Continue the intake of this drink for twice daily till you get complete relief from the problem.

Note:

Or simply combine 1 – 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. Mix well till the bubble and fizz upon coming in contact and settle down. Finally, consume this drink on an empty stomach for 2 – 3 times daily to clear acid reflux. Repeat the action regularly to keep this acid reflux or GERD at bay.

If you’re suffering from severe acid reflux (GERD) then mix 2 tablespoons each of apple cider vinegar and baking soda in 1 glass of water and drink it for twice daily to get rid of the problem.

You can also follow these 5 Best Home Remedies for Acid Reflux

Method – 4: (White Vinegar)

You can also use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar by the vinegar should be made from grain and diluted with water. The acidity in vinegar will help a lot in breaking down the food and thereby aids in proper digestion to give relief from acid reflux.

• Mix 1 teaspoon of white vinegar in 1 cup of water and stir well.
• Drink this white vinegar water whenever you suffer from the attacks of heartburn or acid reflux.
• Regular intake will help you to get rid of acid reflux and GERD.

Note: Or simply mix this white vinegar in your smoothies or salad dressings or other foods.

Possible Side Effects:

Apple cider vinegar is safe to drink but you need to pay some attention to how you’re consuming it. Otherwise, it results in some side effects rather than treating acid reflux.

• Damage Tooth enamel – It is highly acidic in nature which harms your teeth by increasing dental sensitivity or erosion of tooth enamel. So, it’s best to drink the apple cider vinegar with a straw and also rinse your mouth after drinking.
• Interact with Medications – It interacts with some medications like diuretics, heart disease medicines, diabetes drugs, laxatives, etc.
• Worsens your Ulcers – If you have ulcer then avoid using apple cider vinegar for acid reflux, as its acidic nature will make your ulcers even worse.
• Blood Thinning – It thins your blood, so avoid taking it before planning for surgery or taking any blood thinning medications.

Tips and Precautions:

1. Always use organic, raw, unpasteurized and unfiltered apple cider vinegar with its Mother content, which exhibits natural enzymes and filled with many nutrients. You can easily find it in the health food stores or grocery stores.
2. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages while suffering from acid reflux. Also, don’t consume 3 large meals instead, have 6 small meals for better digestion and thereby to prevent acid reflux.
3. If you’re suffering from severe acid reflux (or) frequent attacks of acid reflux then consult your doctor for proper diagnose and treatment.
4. Quit smoking and drinking alcohol for getting relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
5. Avoid sleeping immediately after consuming food and also elevate your head while sleeping to get rid of late night attacks of acid reflux.
6. Avoid the consumption of spicy, fatty, oily or processed foods as they result in acid reflux. foods and other foods and beverages which triggers heartburn and acid reflux.
7. You can use other medications like antacids (to neutralize the stomach acid), H – 2 receptor blockers (like famotidine to block receptors in the stomach releasing acid) and proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole to reduce the production of acid).
8. Avoid lying down after eating food, as it results in bringing back the food to the esophagus and thereby causing acid reflux. Also, it’s better to elevate the head of your bed by several inches to prevent the attack of GERD.

Try these Apple Cider Vinegar methods to cure acid reflux and share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Digestive disorders are very frequent but painful. The burning and paining sensation in the chest is very horrible to handle. Are you suffering with the same problem? That is nothing but the acid reflux.

Acid reflux can occur in a person at any stage of life. Researchers say that 7% of the Americans face heartburn daily because of acid reflux. Out of that 20% people are suffering from GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), which is severe case of acid reflux.

How does Acid Reflux occur?

Acid reflux is a condition, where stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) moves back into the esophagus along with the food. This is caused due to the opening or weakening of the esophageal sphincter muscle, which consists of food and acid. This may lead to belching, chest pain, irritation in esophagus etc.

Genetics, smoking, consumption of alcohol, stomach abnormalities, certain food items with high-fat, etc. are main causes of acid reflux.

It is said that, if you are suffering from acid reflux problem regularly then, it is sign of some severe health issue and must be treated as soon as possible.

It is very important to find out the root cause and permanently get rid of this problem. However, antacid is proved to provide instant relief against this problem but it gives a temporary relief. So, total of 30% people who are suffering from acid reflux prefer home remedies as it provides instant and permanent relief from acid reflux.

We have mentioned top 6 best and effective measures to treat acid reflux at home. In this article you will be learning the methods and few do’s and don’ts to prevent the problems associated with acid reflux.

Top 6 Home Remedies to Treat Acid Reflux:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):

Apple cider vinegar is found to be more effective in treating acid reflux. It has acetic acid, which breaks down the fats for proper digestion. The hydrochloric acid produced by stomach is stronger than the acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar. So, the pH level of the stomach is balanced and helps in treating acid reflux.

Ingredients:

1. 1-2 teaspoons of unfiltered apple cider vinegar
2. 1 cup warm water

Steps to be followed…

• Take a cup of warm water and add 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to it.
• Now, stir well and consume it half an hour before your meals.
• You can consume it until you are free from acid reflux.
• If needed you can add1 teaspoon of honey for taste.

 2. Baking Soda:

Baking soda is rich in sodium bicarbonate, which acts as antacid. In fact, sodium bicarbonate is naturally produced in the body by pancreas to protect the intestines.

This sodium bicarbonate acts as neutralizer and nullifies the acid produced by stomach. Thus, it gives relief from the acid reflux by balancing the pH levels of the stomach.

Ingredients:

1. 1/2 -1 teaspoon baking soda
2. 1 cup water

Steps to be followed…

• Take 1 cup of water and add ½ or 1 teaspoon of baking soda to it.
• Now, stir well and consume this mixture quickly.
• You can repeat it daily till you get relief from acid reflux.

Alternative method:

Ingredients:

1. 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. ½ teaspoon lemon juice
4. 1 cup water

Steps to be followed…

• Take 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda and finally add ½ teaspoon of lemon juice.
• Stir it well and consume it immediately.
• Repeat this whenever you have acid reflux problems.

Note:

• As it is a temporary treatment, sometimes the sudden decrease in the acidic level may worsen the symptoms of acid reflux.
• High sodium content in the baking soda may cause lot of health problems one among them is high B.P. so, do not consume it regularly.

3. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm contains a substance called mucilage, which turns into gel form when combined with water. This gel coats the inflamed gastrointestinal tracts and esophagus. So, it is used in providing protection against acid reflux.

It is also known to stimulate production of mucus in the intestine and prevents ulcers and acidity.

Ingredients:

1. 1-2 teaspoons of slippery elm
2. 1 glass of warm water

Steps to be followed…

• Take a glass of warm water and mix 1-2 teaspoons of slippery elm with it.
• Stir it well and steep for 5 minutes.
• You can consume it during the bed time or after the dinner.
• If needed, you can add a teaspoon of honey to it.
• For best results you can consume it daily till you get cured from acid reflux.

Note:

• Initially you can add 1 teaspoon of slippery elm and then, you can increase the quantity.
• You can even make use of slippery elm lozenges to get rid of acid reflux.

4. Aloevera:

The presence of anti-inflammatory properties present in aloevera is useful in treating the inflamed oesophageal tract. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and lots of amino acids, which improves the digestion and helps in removing out the toxins from the body.

Steps to be followed…

• Take fresh leaf of aloevera and extract the fresh juice from it.
• Pour ½ glass of aloevera juice and consume it 20 minutes before the meals.
• Regular usage of this can help you to prevent acid reflux.

Note:

• The presence of laxative in the aloevera can lead to diarrhea.

5. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are referred as anti-spasmodic, which helps in improving digestion, ease the cramps and treating gas. It has a compound called anethole, which reduces the stomach spasms and helps to get rid of acid reflux.

Ingredients:

1. 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
2. 1 cup water

Steps to be followed…

• Pour a cup of water into a pan and boil for 2 minutes on medium flame.
• Now, add 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds and boil for 2 more minutes.
• Allow it to steep for 10 minutes and then, drain the liquid.
• For best results you can consume it 2-3 times per day.

Alternative method:

You can take a teaspoon of fennel seeds and chew them directly after the meals.

6. Licorice Root

Licorice root seals the esophagus sphincter and prevents liquid food from going back. It is also known to increase the production of mucus, which protects stomach and esophagus from the hydrochloric acid. Thus, licorice root is useful in treating acid reflux.

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup water
2. 1 and ½ teaspoon licorice root powder

Steps to be followed…

• Take 1 cup of water and boil for 2 minutes.
• Then, add licorice root powder into the water and boil it again for 1 – 2 minutes.
• Strain the liquid and drink it for 15-20 minutes before having food.
• You can repeat it for 2 or 3 times per day till you get rid of acid reflux.

Alternative method:

• You can even chew 1 or 2 Deglycyrrhizinated licorice tablets before your meals daily.
• For best results you can repeat it twice a day.

Note: It is always better to consult doctor before starting with this herb.

Do’s

• It is always recommended to follow low carb diet. Sometimes, the carbs doesn’t digest easily and leads to bacterial growth and acid reflux.
• One of the easy methods is to start chewing gum, which increases the production of saliva and thus reduces acid reflux.
• Eat minimum of 3 hours before going to bed.
• Try to sleep on your left side to get rid of acid reflux quickly.
• Control you stress because it causes indigestion and further leads to acid reflux.
• If you are consuming any pills, then it is better to consult your doctor and discuss. Sometimes, pills can be the major reason for acid reflux.
• You can take digestive enzyme supplements, which helps in proper digestion.
• Consume 2 glasses of pomegranate juice everyday to get rid of acid reflux quickly.
• Coriander acts as a best remedy in treating acid reflux so, you can combine it with buttermilk and consume.
• Amla is popularly known for treating colic and acid reflux. You can consume it raw, powder or any other supplements.
• Consume an apple or banana everyday to get rid of acid reflux.
• Drink ginger tea, chamomile tea, peppermint tea, marshmallow tea before consumption of your meals.

Don’ts

• Do not over eat the food at a time. You can prefer the having small meals.
• Reduce consumption of alcohol as it may increase the heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux.
• The presence of caffeine in the coffee weakens the esophageal sphincter and leads to acid reflux.
• Avoid eating onion when you are suffering from acid reflux, as it may increase the heartburn.
• Limit the consumption of carbonated drinks because they weaken the esophageal sphincter.
• Do not drink too much of citrus juices as they increase the production of acid and leads to severe health problems.
• Avoid the foods such as tomatoes, spinach, radish, beet, oranges, grape fruit, cheese, cayenne, jalapeno etc.
• Concentrate on your body weight because belly fat will put pressure on the esophagus sphincter and leads to acid reflux and heartburn.
• Do not wear tight clothes, as they may add pressure on the abdomen and esophagus sphincter.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What can you drink if you have acid reflux?

Acid reflux can be best treated with fluids such as water, coconut water, butter milk, low fat milk, aloevera juice etc.

2. Can you eat bananas for acid reflux?

Yes, bananas help in maintaining the pH level of the stomach. So, they are best for treating acid reflux.

3. Is honey useful for acid reflux?

Yes, acid reflux may be due to the damaged digestive tract. Honey prevents the free radicals from damaging the digestive tract and provides soothing effect. Thus, honey is best for treating acid reflux.

4. Can you eat eggs if you have acid reflux?

No, the foods with higher amount of fat can worsen the acid reflux symptoms and leads to heartburn.

5. How can you get rid of heartburn quickly?

Sip apple cider vinegar mixed with water or take baking soda with water. This helps in getting rid of heartburn quickly.

6. Can you drink mint water for acid reflux?

No, mint is said to relax the esophagus sphincter and it allows the liquid food to go back to the esophagus and cause acid reflux.

7. Can drinking a lot of water cause acid reflux?

Yes, drinking lot of water dilutes the hydrochloric acid of the stomach and causes acid reflux and heartburn.

8. How do you stop acid reflux at night?

Do not eat late night and keep difference of minimum 3 hours between your meals and sleep. This can help you to prevent acid reflux at night.

Few words to note…..

Acid reflux is very annoying and tough to tolerate so, everyone needs a quick and easy method to follow and get rid of it. To overcome this problem and help you in treating acid reflux and other symptoms we have mentioned 6 effective methods.

All the methods mentioned above are tested and proved to provide relief against acid reflux, heart burn etc.

Have you ever experienced this? Which method did you follow? Do you any other home remedy?

If you have any queries please write to us in the comment section below. Our team of experts will clarify them as soon as possible.