SAEDNEWS: Acid reflux, or the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, can cause heartburn, hoarseness, and sore throat. When stomach acid moves up, it creates a bad taste in the mouth and a burning sensation in the upper stomach and chest. In most cases, lifestyle changes and healthy eating can help manage acid reflux.
According to SaedNews, acid reflux, or the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, can cause heartburn, hoarseness, and sore throat. When stomach acid moves up, it creates a bad taste in the mouth and a burning sensation in the upper stomach and chest. In most cases, lifestyle changes and healthy eating can help manage acid reflux. In certain situations, medications or other treatments may be necessary to control this problem.
You don't always need to rely on chemical medications to treat acid reflux. Sometimes, simple lifestyle changes and easy tips can help reduce stomach acidity and solve the problem. Here are some effective home remedies for acid reflux:
Chewing Gum: Studies show that chewing gum can help reduce acidity in the esophagus. Gum seems to contain bicarbonate, which helps neutralize stomach acid and prevent reflux. Additionally, chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps clear acid from the esophagus.
Sleeping on the Left Side: Several studies indicate that sleeping on the right side can worsen nighttime reflux symptoms. Sleeping on the left side helps reduce stomach acid levels in the esophagus by up to 71%.
The esophagus enters the stomach from the right. Therefore, when you sleep on your left side, the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve preventing stomach acid from entering the esophagus) is above the stomach acid level. Sleeping on the right side allows stomach acid to cover the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of reflux.
Elevating the Head While Sleeping: Some individuals experience more reflux at night. Elevating the head above the body can reduce reflux symptoms and improve sleep quality. Studies show that people who raise their heads with an extra pillow during sleep experience less reflux and heartburn at night.
Eating Smaller Meals: At the junction of the esophagus and stomach is a ring-like muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, which acts as a valve to prevent stomach acid from moving up into the esophagus. However, this valve may open during swallowing, belching, or vomiting. In people with acid reflux, this muscle weakens and does not function properly, allowing pressure to open the valve.
Therefore, most individuals with acid reflux experience symptoms after eating. Eating smaller meals several times a day can significantly reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Managing Stress: Many individuals with acid reflux and heartburn experience stress and psychological pressure. Stress slows the digestion process and makes the body more sensitive to pain. Try to manage your stress and anxiety using breathing techniques and meditation.
Honey: Honey can significantly reduce acid reflux and heartburn. To effectively treat stomach acid, consume 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw, unpasteurized honey every morning.
In traditional medicine, acid reflux is often treated with herbal remedies. So, what should you consume to reduce stomach acid? Here are some herbal remedies for acid reflux:
Ginger Tea
Chamomile Tea
Licorice Root Tea
Bitter Orange Tea
Marshmallow Root Tea
Reduce Alcohol and Caffeinated Beverages: Try to limit your intake of alcoholic and caffeinated drinks to treat acid reflux.
Avoid Carbonated Drinks and Sports Beverages: These can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Avoid Citrus Juices: Citrus juices can irritate and burn the stomach, so it's best to avoid them.
Limit Mint Consumption: Reduce your intake of mint and mint-flavored drinks and foods.
Limit Fatty and Fried Foods: These can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly: Eating slowly and chewing your food well can help prevent acid reflux.
Stay Upright After Eating: To prevent acid reflux, remain seated or standing after meals.
Avoid Vigorous Physical Activity After Eating: Refrain from rapid movements and intense physical activities after meals.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
Use Warm Herbal Teas for Immediate Relief: Drinking warm herbal teas can provide quick relief from stomach acid.
Consume Alkaline Foods: Eating foods like bananas can help combat stomach acid and reflux.
