11 Nov, 2008
Alternative Treatments For Acid Reflux
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There are several medications that can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux but can make the problem worse if you stop taking them. These medications are called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI), and work by minimizing the acid production in your stomach.
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.
Several herbs are used as heartburn remedies. A post-meal tea of caraway seeds, coriander, chamomile, anise, fennel, angelica, offers great relief. Peppermint and spearmint teas, contraindicated in allopathy, also work a capsule containing peppermint and caraway seed oils taken for four weeks, also helps.
There are specialists who rely on roots and herbs. Ginger root is one herb that’s used in Ayurveda, and taking it regularly can help reduce 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.
Nicotine is another contributor to acid reflux, so if you smoke stopping can help. It causes the esophageal sphincter to relax, which can allow fluids and acid to “swish around” more freely. Plus, stress can sometimes be related to smoking which can also affect your digestion.
Avoid eating citrus fruits, raw onions, ground beef, potatoes, spaghetti, alcohol, spicy foods, ice cream, cheese, coffee and tea.
Some of the other alternative treatments that have proven popular include meadowsweet, licorice, and some digestive enzymes such as papain. Even marshmallow, mixed with chamomile, can work as an anti-inflammatory and has helped some people with their acid reflux.
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.