7 Natural Rememdies for Reflux Relief

Reflux, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. This happens because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, doesn’t close properly. When the LES is weak or relaxed, it allows stomach contents to rise back up, causing irritation and the familiar burning sensation.

Several factors can contribute to reflux. Common causes include overeating, obesity, and certain dietary habits. Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods are known triggers. Stress and lack of sleep can also exacerbate symptoms. Understanding these causes is crucial in managing and preventing reflux.

By addressing the root causes and triggers, you can take proactive steps to reduce reflux occurrences. 

What are the natural remedies for reflux that focus on dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and home treatments. 

Foods, herbs, natural medicines, lifestyle changes, and other natural rememdies for reflux:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can soothe the stomach and reduce acid production.
• Oatmeal: A high-fiber food that absorbs acid and reduces symptoms.
• Bananas: These are low in acid and can help coat the esophageal lining, providing relief.
• Green vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, and green beans are low in fat and sugar, making them good choices for reducing reflux.
• Chamomile: Chamomile tea is known for its calming effects on the digestive system. It can help reduce inflammation and balance stomach acid levels. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed can help prevent nighttime reflux.
• Licorice Root: Licorice root has a soothing effect on the mucous membranes of the stomach and esophagus. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a supplement form that is commonly used to treat reflux. It helps protect the stomach lining and reduce irritation.
• Slippery Elm: Slippery elm contains mucilage, which becomes a gel-like substance when mixed with water. This gel can coat and soothe the esophagus, providing relief from reflux symptoms. Taking slippery elm supplements or drinking it as a tea can be beneficial.
• Marshmallow Root: Similar to slippery elm, marshmallow root contains mucilage that can coat the esophagus and stomach, reducing irritation. It can be consumed as a tea or in supplement form.
• Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Elevating the head of your bed by about 6-8 inches can prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep. This simple change can reduce nighttime reflux and improve sleep quality.
• Eat Smaller Meals: Large meals can put pressure on the stomach and LES, increasing the likelihood of reflux. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage symptoms. Avoid eating large meals close to bedtime to give your body time to digest properly
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, causing acid to rise into the esophagus. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce this pressure and decrease reflux symptoms.
• Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight clothing, especially around the waist, can put pressure on the stomach and contribute to reflux. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help prevent this issue.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and increases acid production, exacerbating reflux symptoms. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce reflux significantly.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. They can help balance the stomach’s acid levels and improve digestion, reducing reflux symptoms. Taking a daily probiotic supplement can promote a healthy digestive system and prevent reflux.
• Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes aid in the breakdown of food, making digestion easier and reducing the likelihood of reflux. Supplements containing digestive enzymes like amylase, lipase, and protease can be taken before meals to support digestion and prevent symptoms.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Though acidic, apple cider vinegar can help balance stomach pH levels and improve digestion. Diluting a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drinking it before meals can aid in reflux relief.
• Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera juice has soothing properties that can reduce inflammation in the stomach and esophagus. Drinking a small amount of aloe vera juice before meals can help calm the digestive tract and alleviate reflux symptoms.
• Betaine HCl: For those with low stomach acid, Betaine HCl supplements can help increase acid levels and improve digestion. This can prevent food from lingering in the stomach and reduce the risk of reflux.
• Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural antacid that can neutralize stomach acid. Mixing half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drinking it can provide immediate relief from heartburn.
• Ginger Tea: Fresh ginger root can be steeped in hot water to make a soothing tea. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce acid production. Drinking ginger tea before or after meals can aid digestion and prevent reflux.
• Chewing Gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid. Chewing a piece of sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after meals can help reduce reflux symptoms. The chewing can also stimulate all aspects of digestion as well.
• Mustard: Mustard is alkaline and can help neutralize stomach acid. Taking a teaspoon of mustard when you feel reflux symptoms can provide quick relief.
• Almonds: Eating a handful of raw almonds can help balance stomach pH levels and reduce acid reflux. Almonds are a good source of protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritious option for reflux relief.
• Apple Slices: Apples are low in acid and can help soothe the stomach. Eating a few slices of an apple after meals can help prevent reflux.