The first choice for acid reflux relief is usually an antacid or a proton pump inhibitor. The first neutralizes excess stomach acid, while the second prevents the stomach from producing excess stomach acid. But, some people look for alternative medicine and acid reflux relief. And, in fact, for long term acid reflux relief, a complete treatment plan which includes dietary and lifestyle changes may be the most effective.
When looking for alternative medicine and acid reflux relief, you may find references to herbal and botanicals and some people find that these are effective. Herbal remedies for acid reflux may include chamomile, meadowsweet, slippery elm, cancer bush, fennel, catnip, angelica root, gentian root, ginger root or other botanicals. Slippery elm was used historically by native peoples to treat stomach upset, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn and other digestive complaints. Fennel and gingerroot were also common “folk remedies” for the relief of indigestion. Modern herbalists have found that a combination of several of the herbs that had been used for indigestion could be effective for acid reflux relief.
Alternative medicine and acid reflux relief usually includes recommendations for lifestyle changes. Tobacco use relaxes the sphincter muscles that prevent stomach acid from coming back up into the esophagus. It also dries out saliva in the mouth and throat which would normally neutralize some of the stomach acid and also begins the digestive process. Stop using tobacco products and you may find acid reflux relief.
Other alternative medicine and acid reflux treatment plans may include changes in eating habits. Eating large meals can cause stomach acid to leak back up into the esophagus. Eating smaller meals more frequently has provide acid reflux relief for some people. Lying down immediately after eating allows more stomach acid to leak into the esophagus. Eating your last meal at least two to three hours before bedtime may provide acid reflux relief, particularly if you have nighttime symptoms. Raising the head of the bed is also recommended for nighttime acid reflux relief.
Another alternative medicine and acid reflux treatment plan may include a weight loss program. Obese and overweight people are more likely to suffer from acid reflux than are those who are at their ideal weight. The extra weight puts extra pressure on the stomach, particularly when lying down, causing symptoms of acid reflux. Losing weight may provide acid reflux relief and typically provides other health benefits as well, such as improved quality of life, improved energy and improved mood.
Alternative medicine and acid reflux treatment plans may include changes in what you eat and drink. Spicy foods, fried foods, fatty foods, onions, garlic and peppers can all increase stomach acid. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages increase stomach acid and may worsen symptoms of acid reflux. Alcohol, particularly when consumed at night is another product to avoid for acid reflux relief. Cooking with ginger and fennel for flavoring and baking rather than frying may all provide acid reflux relief.
For more information about acid reflux relief and relief from other digestive problems, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com
