Homeopathic GERD Remedies

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic digestive condition characterized by stomach acid or bile flowing back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. While this backwash of stomach acid is experienced by most of us from time to time, GERD is typically diagnosed in those who suffer these symptoms more than twice a week. Homeopathic GERD remedies can offer relief from the discomfort of GERD without the risk of side effects that can come with the use of prescription GERD medications.

Lifestye Adjustments

• The first step in a homeopathic approach to GERD treatment is to make certain lifestyle changes. Dietary changes are perhaps the most important. GERD sufferers should avoid spicy foods, fried or greasy fare, coffee and alcohol, as well as acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes. Overweight patients would do well to shed those extra pounds, as obesity can play a role in GERD. Smoking can worsen symptoms, as it may cause increased production of stomach acid. Because lying down too soon after eating can bring on GERD, meal times should be adjusted to ensure that dinner is eaten at least two hours before bed. Elevating the head and shoulders approximately six inches while sleeping can help prevent the onset of GERD, and tight clothing should be avoided, as it can constrict the waist and interfere with digestion. Food allergies or intolerances can make GERD symptoms more severe, so sufferers may wish to consider allergy testing.

Alternative Treatments

• With a homeopathic approach, GERD, sufferers are treated according to their specific symptoms. Among possible remedies are a variety of herbal, natural and alternative treatments, each addressing certain symptoms. Among the most commonly recommended is apple cider vinegar. Some GERD sufferers have found that sipping a teaspoon of the stuff mixed with half a glass of water with meals can prevent acid reflux. Another natural remedy for acid reflux is ginger root, which absorbs stomach acid when taken immediately after meals. Fennel seeds are another common natural treatment for GERD, as they are said to aid in digestion and in the suppression of spasms in the stomach and intestinal tract. Slippery elm is said to be helpful in reducing the irritation of the throat and esophagus that often comes with GERD, and GERD sufferers have found relief with the use of turmeric and licorice. Because there are so many options, consulting a homeopathic medicine practitioner may be the way to determine which of them will be best for an individual GERD sufferer.