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Acid Reflux Alternative Treatment

Acid reflux is characterized by burning that can come from the stomach, working its way back up the digestive tract. Those with acid reflux can experience belching, bloating, nausea and regurgitation. While there are many pharmaceutical methods of dealing with symptoms of acid reflux, there are also convenient easily assessable treatments found at home

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

    • Apple cider vinegar has been a longstanding natural remedy for a variety of ailments. It is hard to believe that something as acidic as ACV could serve as a remedy for acid reflux but it does. Some practitioners have long believed that acid reflux may be linked to a deficiency in the amount of acid produced by the stomach. It is believed that the acidity of the ACV helps the body build up its own acid levels, thus reducing acid reflux.

    Positioning

    • Body position can affect the symptom of acid reflux. Since reflux happens when the sphincter separating your esophagus from your stomach relaxes, being flat on your back can make reflux symptoms feel worse. If at all possible, invest in pillows such as a wedge pillow that will allow you to recline and still keep your head and shoulders elevated, decreasing reflux.

    Diet

    • Certain foods can agitate and increase acid reflux symptoms. Hard candy and chewing gum increase the amount of air swallowed making reflux worse. Spicy foods, highly acidic foods such as citrus fruits may not be tolerated well by those affected by acid reflux and individuals may find in useful to take a dietary supplement to ensure that they are receiving enough vitamin C. Beverages such as tea, carbonated beverages, and coffee which are often high in caffeine can also agitate acid reflux.
      Water is very helpful in easing the symptoms of acid reflux. Water keeps the body hydrated and also works to keep the stomach and digestive system clear of the components that cause reflux by raising the pH and keeping acid diluted.
      Adding garlic to your diet and eliminate the bacteria that is often associated with reflux. Many sufferers of acid reflux are found to have Helicobacter pylori bacterial infections. Consuming garlic has been found to naturally combat the bacteria.

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