How to Naturally Reduce GERD Symptoms

What is GERD? 

When acid reflux produces chronic symptoms, it is known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder, or GERD.

Symptoms of GERD can include: 

• Heartburn — pain in the upper abdomen and chest is the most common symptom of GERD.
• Regurgitation, or stomach contents coming back up through your esophagus and into your throat or mouth, which may cause you to taste food or stomach acid.
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Problems swallowing or pain while swallowing.
• Symptoms of complications in the mouth, throat, or lungs, such as chronic cough or hoarseness. 

Three conditions — poor clearance of food or acid from the esophagus, too much acid in the stomach, and delayed stomach emptying may contribute to acid reflux. 

If not treated, GERD can lead to more serious health problems. In some cases, you might need medicines or surgery. However, many people can improve their symptoms of GERD through self-care and lifestyle changes. 

How to get rid of Acid Reflux? 

The best long-term acid reflux treatment is addressing your diet.

As mentioned earlier, avoiding fatty foods, salt, and carbonated beverages can significantly help reduce reflux. At-home remedies include drinking a baking soda solution and Aloe vera juice. 

Some experts also say that physical movements or changes can ease acid reflux. For example, elevating your feet or avoiding food before bedtime are often touted as easy ways to prevent digestive issues.

Does water remedy Acid Reflux?

You should know how to calm acid reflux while it is happening. Water can dilute the contents of your stomach and wash down anything stuck in your esophagus. So if you are mid-bout of acid reflux, water might be worth a try. However, gulping down large quantities of water can also disturb your esophagus and cause acid reflux. 

The best overall strategy is taking small sips with your meal and eating slowly. Remember that swallowing food without chewing can also increase your chances of symptoms. 

Do Tums help Digestive Reflux? 

As mentioned earlier, Tums can help ease mild heartburn and acidity. Since most people only occasionally suffer from acid reflux, Tums are a common and effective medication for mild acid reflux treatment. Tums antacid may even be the fastest way to cure acid reflux at home. 

However, it is best not to rely on over-the-counter medication for long periods. Some people find that Tums help reduce their symptoms, while others find that they do not help. If your symptoms are severe enough that this issue persists and interferes with your life regularly, it is best to consult your primary care physician. 

Does Milk Help Reflux Symptoms? 

There is some evidence that milk can help relieve acid reflux symptoms, like a burning throat, fast. Studies show that the calcium in milk may help to neutralize stomach acids. Low-fat milk and yogurts may stabilize your stomach acidity and provide momentary relief from acid reflux. However, remember that any significant quantities of fat can cause further acidity, so it’s best to stay away from full-fat dairy. 

What can I drink to neutralize acid reflux? 

To neutralize an acid, you need a basic or an alkaline substance. For example, baking soda is a common household pantry item and is very alkaline. You can drink half a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 4 ounces of water to neutralize acid reflux.

Aloe vera juice also relieves throat irritation caused by acid reflux. 

Acid Reflux Symptom Relief 

Soothing your throat may be your top priority after acid reflux. First, sip warm beverages, like herbal tea with raw, unfiltered honey, to help calm symptoms. Other beverages to drink for acid reflux include cold milk and aloe vera juice. 

Then, to manage pain, gargle with salt water and eat something cold, like a popsicle. Throat lozenges for sore throats can also be soothing to the throat after acid reflux. 

What Can Stop Acid Reflux Immediately? 

Unfortunately, there’s no magic pill to stop acid reflux completely. Over-the-counter antacids provide fast acid reflux relief, but it’s always best to prevent reflux in the first place. 

Natural remedies without medication primarily consist of diet and eating habit changes. First, eat slowly, don’t swallow huge chunks of food or water all at once, and stay away from salty/fatty foods. Also, stay sitting or standing for a few hours after eating, and avoid vigorous exercise until a few hours after a meal. 

Remember that later stages of GERD can seriously harm your health and that over-the-countermedications are not a substitute for medical intervention.