Alternative Treatments For Acid Reflux
Frank Robson
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.
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.
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.
Adequate fiber consumption reduces symptoms of acid reflux. Fiber easily digests the acid from the foods. Fiber also keeps you unconstipated. Fiber pills or water-soluble powders are available for those who do not enjoy raw foods.
Stop smoking. Nicotine causes a relaxation of the esophageal sphincter, allowing fluids to swish around freely. Sometimes smoking and stress are related, and both need to be reduced, as both affect your digestion.
You should avoid raw onions, citrus fruits, ice cream, spicy foods, coffee, tea, cheese, potatoes, ground beef and spaghetti as well.
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.
At the end of the day, lifestyle changes, good diet, weight control, and healthy stress relieving habits are all what acid reflux treatment is all about.
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