3 Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux
At one point or another we’ve all felt it. That awful condition called acid reflux, where the contents of your stomach literally flow backward and up into your esophagus. And then what happens? The so-called answer most people have is to pop an antacid. They’re just over the counter meds after all, no big deal.
But it is a big deal. Antacids can do more harm than good.
Before you start popping those colorful little discs, try some natural remedies for acid reflux. And definitely get to someone who specializes in digestive health so the root cause of the problem can be identified. In my experience, it’s usually a food sensitivity that’s the culprit, but it’s good to know for sure what the issue is. But for more immediate relief, give the following a try the next time you have acid reflux.
Sip on aloe vera juice
It’s not just for sunburns. When ingested, aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory that can soothe an inflamed esophagus and stomach lining. You’ll need aloe vera juice in its raw form, which is available at most health food stores. (The smaller bottles in drug store refrigerators are loaded with sugar. That’s not the kind you want.) For maximum effectiveness, mix two to three ounces of aloe vera juice with coconut water. The coconut water will help balance out the bitter taste of aloe vera and provide electrolytes.
Eat some peppermint
Peppermint is a very soothing herb. In fact, it’s one of the most commonly prescribed herbs for digestion. That’s because it helps with all sorts of related issues, like nausea and upset stomach. It also cools a burning throat. But make sure you’re taking actual peppermint, not something with peppermint flavor.
Enjoy smaller meals + eat them early
It’s harder for your digestive system to break down larger meals. Most people don’t realize that digestion actually begins in the mouth, so chew slowly and more frequently. This way you’ll get to enjoy your food more, while giving your body time to catch up with your brain when it is full. And speaking of smaller meals, try to eat the last one in the early evening. A good rule of thumb is to avoid eating at least 2 hours before bed.
