How to Treat Acid Reflux – Knowing What To Do

Millions of people just like you are suffering with acid reflux. If you’re wondering how to treat acid reflux, you have plenty of options available. You might consider using conventional remedies to treat the initial symptoms, then using natural remedies for more permanent relief.

Conventional Treatments

Want to know how to treat acid reflux with conventional remedies? There are three common conventional treatments most acid reflux sufferers use to get some temporary relief.

Antacids

When you want to quell the rising acid and bad taste in your mouth right away, you can use over-the-counter antacids. Antacids relieve symptoms by neutralizing acid and coating the throat, stomach and intestines. It’s how to treat acid reflux if it’s a minor case. More severe cases of heartburn may need stronger treatment.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

A proton pump is a molecule contained in certain stomach cells that literally pump acid into your stomach. Those with severe heartburn or gastrointestinal reflux disease might be advised by their doctor to take a proton pump inhibitor.

A proton pump inhibitor does just like it says; it stops the proton pump from producing acid.

H2 Inhibitors

H2 inhibitors are similar to proton pump inhibitors but instead of preventing the proton pump from working, an H2 inhibitor blocks the histamine signals that tell your stomach to make acid.

Natural Remedies

Conventional remedies relieve acid reflux temporarily but they can cause unwanted side effects. These natural remedies can also help with chronic heartburn.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a completely natural remedy and it’s how to treat acid reflux without worrying about side effects. Activated charcoal works by soaking up excess stomach acid to provide temporary relief during a severe attack of heartburn.

Baking Soda

You can use baking soda to cool the burn in your throat and stomach. Mix one to two tablespoons of baking soda into a 6-ounce glass of water and drink for quick relief.

Chewable DGL

This natural remedy is reported to work as well as a proton pump inhibitor. Chewable DGL is a digestive bitter that, instead of suppressing symptoms, works to correct the underlying cause of heartburn. It encourages healthy digestion and mucous production that, over time, can lessen the severity of GERD.

Apple Cider Vinegar

You may wonder how to treat acid reflux with another acid but it actually works. Taking two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before meals encourages the lower esophageal sphincter to close, preventing acid from backing up into your throat. ACV is also a natural digestive aid that can keep your body from producing too much acid.

Digestive Aids

Many people suffering from acid reflux have a weakened digestive system. Digestive enzymes are how to treat acid reflux by helping your body better break down the food you eat.

Probiotics

Probiotics are how to treat acid reflux by getting to the root of the problem. Those with weakened digestive systems often have an imbalance of bacteria in their guts. Taking a high-quality probiotic helps eliminate bad bacteria that cause ulcers and heartburn, easing your symptoms and offering more permanent relief.

Prevent Acid Reflux

Learning how to treat acid reflux is only half the battle. In order to prevent it from recurring, it’s important to:

Avoid   Processed Foods

Avoid   High-Acid Foods

Reduce   Your Use of NSAID Pain Relievers

Quit   Smoking

Reduce   Your Alcohol Intake

Now that you know how to treat acid reflux, use these tips to help relieve your symptoms. If symptoms persist, contact a doctor.