Acid Reflux Symptoms and Home Remedies

Acid reflux is a condition that can occur in both children and adults, as a result of the lower esophageal sphincter not closing properly. Contents of the stomach leak back into the LES, which causes a burning sensation in the chest and throat. The taste of the stomach acid can even travel into the mouth, and the condition can worsen when large meals are consumed. This condition is referred to as heartburn when only experienced on occasion, but is classified as acid reflux when it occurs on a daily basis.

Acid reflux is characterized by consistent heartburn, occurring at least three to five times per week. Those with acid reflux will experience pain in the chest after eating large meals, and sometimes experience a burning sensation in the chest, throat, and even mouth. Severe acid reflux can result even after eating a small bland meal, since the LES is unable to function properly after all meals. Some acid reflux sufferers have experienced hoarseness in the morning, trouble swallowing, and the sensation that there is a piece of food stuck in their throat.

There are many medications on the market for acid reflux, but they usually take time to work and also come along with many side effects. The best way to treat acid reflux is with natural home remedies, which include prevention as well as food items that can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. The first step in treating acid reflux at home is to avoid anything that can trigger its onset, such as large meals, spicy foods, alcohol, fried foods, and even drinks with caffeine.

Drinking a glass of milk with every meal can help to prevent acid reflux from occurring, since the coolness of the milk can help to soothe the LES. It is important to drink only about a cup through, since it can have the opposite effect if the stomach is too full from drinking too much milk. Other drinks that are healthy for the body can also have the same effect, such as orange juice, pomegranate juice, or any fruit juice that is low in artificial or added sugar. Drinking a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed into a cup of water can also be beneficial with every meal, since it helps to calm the digestive muscles and help the acid stay within the stomach.

Eating bread or other food items that can absorb excess stomach acid is also beneficial, since it lessens the chance the acid reflux will occur. The bread or other absorbing items will absorb the stomach acid before it has a chance to enter the LES, and can even be beneficial if symptoms of acid reflux have already occurred.

Maintaining a healthy weight is the best way to prevent acid reflux from occurring at home, since it is a condition that is most common in overweight individuals. Eating a healthy diet that will help to promote weight loss is the best solution, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent acid reflux from occurring. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will also eliminate any factors that can lead to acid reflux from returning, such as eating large meals or unhealthy foods that trigger acid production.

Acid reflux can be a very irritating and painful condition, but it can be easily prevented and cured from home. By eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding food items that can trigger acid productions, acid reflux no longer has to be a problem. Drinking healthy juices and milk and eating food items that can easily absorb excess acid can also be beneficial, and can replace the need for over the counter and prescription medications.