Acid Reflux is also called heartburn and is caused because of excess acid content in the body. The acids in the stomach come up into the esophagus; this is because the valve that demarcates the stomach contents with the esophagus malfunction. One of the common causes of acid reflux is a hiatal hernia. This is a situation when the upper portion of the chest extends inside via a small opening in the diaphragm.
Symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Taste in the mouth becomes sour
- The chest has a burning sensation
- Bloating
- Weight Loss
- Nausea
- Burping
- Bloody Vomits
Causes
- Excessive smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Eating timings being irregular
- Eating spicy and fried food
- Asthma
- Peptic Ulcers
- Pregnancy
Following is a list of foods which can cause acid reflux:
- Black Pepper
- Coffee
- Garlic
- Tea
- Tomatoes, Tomato ketchup, tomato soup
- Chili and chili powder
- Vinegar
- Pineapple, Citrus fruits
Remedies
Remedy using cardamom:
Grind 2-3 cardamom; add water to it- approx. 250 ml. This mixture has to be boiled for 15 min and drink this mixture after sieving it.
Basil Leaves
Chew basil leaves, 5-6 after a meal
Clove
You can chew a clove and you will feel better
Milk
Drink one glass of chilled milk to feel better
Chewing Gum
This can also relieve the symptoms of gastro esophageal reflux disease as it gives rise to salivary flow. Any acid in the throat is cleared.
Baking Soda
This is sodium bicarbonate, when mixed with water, ½ tbsp in a glass of water and consumed, it can relieve acid reflux.
Aloe
It is a plant that soothes burns, its juice reduce inflammation. If you drink ½ tbsp of its juice before meals, it will ease the acids.
Lemon Juice
In the morning, drink a cup of warm water with fresh lemon juice. This should be consumed on an empty stomach.
Fasting
Do not eat any food for one day. If you feel hungry, take some juice or fruits.
Honey
The lining of the food wall can be kept healthy by consuming honey. Have a spoon of honey after each meal.
Papaya
It contains papain (enzyme) which can dissolve proteins. Have papaya after food and it will improve your digestion.
Ginger and Lemon Juice
Crush a piece of ginger and mix its juice with lemon juice and consume this. It is very effective during a reflux.
Carrot juice, cabbage juice
Consume one cup of their juices respectively, they ease the acids.
Hyssopus an herb which is very useful in curing the stomach lining it is also called European mint.
Fenugreek Seed Called Methi in Hindi, it also has the ability to absorb acid in the stomach.
Fennel Seeds make the muscles in your stomach smooth.
Tips to avoid acid reflux
- Avoid:Pepper, Mustard, Spices, Vinegar, chocolates, carbonated drinks, tea, and coffee.
- Drink lots of water
- Chew properly while eating your meals
- Try eating lots of fruits and vegetables daily
- Do not wear tight belts
- Have food which is high in fiber content