When stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, acid reflux occurs. If left untreated and prolonged, doctors refer to this condition as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this article, we explore the benefits of turmeric and its effect on reducing the symptoms of acid reflux.
Turmeric has been used for thousands of years as a medicine in alternative medicine. It has been used to treat many diseases, including stomach problems and digestive issues. Although anecdotal evidence suggests that turmeric is a natural remedy for acid reflux, there is little clinical evidence to support these claims.
Benefits of Turmeric for Acid Reflux: Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. In Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, turmeric has been used to relieve arthritis pain and regulate menstruation. It is also used to improve digestion and liver function.
Today, turmeric is recognized as an alternative treatment for heartburn, inflammation, and stomach ulcers. If you're eating curry, you've likely consumed turmeric, which gives the dish its vibrant color and spicy flavor.
The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is believed to be responsible for most of turmeric's health benefits. Curcumin is a polyphenolic antioxidant, and it is said to have strong antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.
Research on Turmeric: While many studies have investigated the properties of turmeric and its extract, curcumin, no research has specifically focused on acid reflux. In general, there is not enough evidence to support the use of turmeric for any specific disease. More research is needed to determine its effectiveness in individuals.
According to a study from 2007, acid reflux (GERD) may result from inflammation and oxidative stress. This study suggests that acid reflux should be treated with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. A separate study in 2011 found that the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin prevented inflammation of the esophagus.
Both turmeric and its curcumin extract possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, turmeric may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Ongoing research continues in this area. A 2019 article provided insights into the anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity of curcumin in treating digestive system problems.
Curcumin protects the intestines from damage caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other harmful agents. It plays an important role in controlling bacteria associated with ulcers, helps in wound healing, and actively works to kill cancer cells in the intestines.
How to Use Turmeric for Acid Reflux: The turmeric root or rhizome can be dried and ground into a powder. This powder can be used either orally or in cooking. It may be difficult to consume enough turmeric to treat acid reflux, so organic turmeric extract supplements may be a better option for receiving therapeutic doses.
Your body absorbs turmeric and curcumin poorly. Both the spice and its extract are quickly metabolized by your liver and intestinal walls. Various methods have been explored to enhance curcumin's bioavailability. One way to increase absorption is by consuming turmeric with piperine, which is commonly found in black pepper. Turmeric and black pepper are often sold together in supplements. Black pepper enhances the absorption and effectiveness of turmeric. When choosing turmeric supplements, look for brands that contain black pepper extract or piperine.
Side Effects of Turmeric: Turmeric is a natural blood thinner. If you are taking blood-thinning medications or if you have upcoming surgery, you should avoid using turmeric. Turmeric may also lower blood sugar, reduce blood pressure, and cause gallbladder problems. Some people report that turmeric actually worsens acid reflux. This may be due to its peppery properties. If you have a history of kidney stones, avoid excessive turmeric consumption. In fact, turmeric releases oxalates when broken down in the body, and high levels of oxalates can lead to kidney stones. People with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should be cautious when purchasing turmeric, as some unreliable manufacturers may mix it with gluten-based substances without mentioning them on the food label. Long-term or high-dose turmeric use may increase the risk of indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea. If this occurs, this treatment may not be suitable for you, and you should stop using it. Turmeric has also caused liver damage in mice with prolonged use. However, no liver damage has been reported in humans. If you are taking medication, consult your doctor before starting any herbal remedies or supplements, especially plants like turmeric that may interact with various medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not consume high amounts of turmeric. Any amount above what is typically used in cooking is considered excessive for this group. There is a risk of allergic reactions to all natural medicines. If you experience symptoms like hives, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing after consuming turmeric, discontinue use immediately. If your symptoms are severe, seek medical attention.
Other Methods to Treat Acid Reflux: If you occasionally experience heartburn, you may be able to treat it on your own by making lifestyle changes. These include:
Eating smaller meals
Avoid lying down after meals
Sleeping with the upper body elevated
Quitting smoking
Avoid wearing tight clothing that constricts your abdomen
If you're overweight, consult a coach and nutritionist to help you manage your weight, as weight loss can reduce symptoms
Take a look at your diet. Pay attention to which foods trigger your heartburn. Spicy, acidic, and fatty foods are the culprits. If these foods worsen your symptoms, limit or avoid them altogether.
If lifestyle changes don't relieve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications, including antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 blockers. In some cases, surgery may be required.
Turmeric Dosage for Acid Reflux: You can consume about 500 milligrams of curcuminoids, the active compound in turmeric, daily. This is roughly equivalent to half a teaspoon of turmeric powder per day. Doses of 1500 milligrams or higher can lead to significant side effects. The maximum daily dose of turmeric is about 8000 milligrams, but nausea, diarrhea, and skin allergic reactions may occur at much lower doses.
Final Thoughts: Turmeric, due to its curcumin content, offers several health benefits and is effective in reducing acid reflux symptoms. However, there has been insufficient research to confirm the effectiveness of turmeric as a treatment for acid reflux. Therefore, if you have acid reflux, consult with your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.
