Alternative Treatments For Acid Reflux
Some medication may help your acid reflux, but there are some that can actually make the problem worse if you stop taking them. There is a type of medication called PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitors) which inhibit the acid production.
But if you stop taking PPIs, your body responds by bouncing back and producing even more acid, a process known as rebound hypersecretion. Because of this, even if you are considering alternative methods of treating your acid reflux, it’s not a good idea to suddenly stop taking PPIs.
A number of herbs are known to help with heartburn. Tea made from coriander, anise, fennel, caraway seeds, chamomile and angelica can help after eating. Other teas that are known to help are peppermint and spearmint. Many health food stores also carry capsules made from peppermint and caraway seed oils which many people have found to help.
Some specialists rely on roots and herbs. Ginger root is a very versatile herb used in Ayurveda, and regular intake of unto 500 mgs a day actually reduces your episodes of acid reflux.
Eating enough fiber can also help reduce the symptoms. Fiber helps your body to digest the acid in the foods as well as keeping you regular. If you don’t like eating foods containing fiber, there are pills and powders you mix with water available.
Another major contributor to acid reflux is nicotine, so stopping smoking can help. Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter, allowing fluids to “swish around” freely. Stress can also be related to smoking, which also affects your digestion.
You need to stay away from citrus fruits, potatoes, ground beef, Buffalo wings, chicken nuggets, raw onions, ice cream, cheese, spaghetti, liquor or wine, coffee, tea, and certain salad dressings. There is a life beyond all these eatables.
Licorice, (sold in health food stores), Meadowsweet, (an excellent anti-inflammatory and antacid that works to protect membranes in the digestive tract), certain digestive enzymes, such as Papain (helps to digest food better and faster, and keeps it from sitting around in the stomach for long periods), Chamomile (works for all digestive problems), and even marshmallow (works as anti-inflammatory, together with chamomile), all have had success as alternative medications over a period of time.
When it’s all said and done, positive lifestyle changes, a good diet, controlling your weight and minimizing your stress are all important to controlling acid reflux.