Treating Acid Reflux Naturally

Acid in the stomach is important for the proper digestion of the food one eats. The acid is not the cause of acid reflux, the food and the condition of the stomach are the main culprits of the reflux. Based on researches, when food is eaten, it moves from the mouth through the esophagus and into the stomach for digestion. At the end of the esophagus is a band of muscles that opens and allows the food to enter into the stomach. The muscle then closes to prevent the food and acid from coming back up into the esophagus. Once the food and acid backs up into the esophagus a person may experience heartburn, which is the symptom of acid reflux. Chewing the food thoroughly will ensure that the stomach has enough acid during mealtime and thus preventing the acid from coming back up into the esophagus.



Treating acid reflux naturally is an alternative way of stopping the acid from reflux. Before, acid reflux is treated using antacids, H2 antagonist, histamines and proton pump inhibitors, which according to studies only worsen the condition. That is why treating acid reflux naturally is the remedy of choice today. Eating snack in between meal causes the stomach to pump out acid gradually instead of saving it for mealtimes when it is needed most. Another important thing in preventing acid reflux is to prevent drinking too much liquid while eating a meal. According to studies, too much liquid dilutes the acid needed by the stomach in digesting the food. The best way is to drink a glass of water 30 minutes to one hour before meal or after meal, with a few amounts during meal.

Eating large meals is another cause of acid reflux. The increase in pressure on the stomach causes the content to be forced out and up into the esophagus. It will take two hours before the food will be able to complete its cycle from the mouth to the stomach. It is better to get rid of fried food and those that contain refined sugar and caffeine. Treating acid reflux naturally will surely help the body to overcome the recurrence of the said condition. Stop using antacid because it will only worsen the condition. Antacids cut down the acid that the stomach needs. The stomach will not be able to digest the food thoroughly if it does not have enough acid.

Treating acid reflux naturally decreases the risk of harmful effects. Chewing gum before and after meals will help the stomach releases unwanted amount of acid. Changing eating habits is another natural way of treating acid reflux. Person suffering from heartburn because of acid reflux should be very conscious of what he eats. Focus should be on when and how much must be eaten by the person with acid reflux. Acidic food should be avoided and the person with acid reflux should eat smaller meals every couple of hours instead of eating two or three large meals. It is also best if the person will not take any meals at least three hours before bedtime. Acid reflux can be treated in a natural way without spending a lot of money. The best thing to do is to change one’s unhealthy lifestyle, too.