Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. While medications can be effective in managing Charlotte GERD symptoms, there are also several home remedies that can help alleviate discomfort and prevent future flare-ups. Here are home remedies for GERD.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Eating larger meals can put more pressure on the LES, making it more likely for acid to reflux into the esophagus. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce this pressure and may help prevent GERD symptoms.
- Avoid trigger foods
Certain foods and drinks are known to trigger GERD symptoms in some people. These include fatty or fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods. Avoiding these trigger foods or limiting your intake of them may help reduce symptoms.
- Lose weight
Carrying excess weight puts additional pressure on the abdominal region, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Losing weight through diet and exercise can help reduce the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms.
- Elevate your head while sleeping
Gravity can help keep stomach contents in the stomach, so elevating the head of your bed by six to eight inches may help prevent acid reflux while you sleep. You can use blocks or books to elevate the head of your bed, or you can use a wedge-shaped pillow to prop up your head and upper body.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing
Tight-fitting clothing, especially around the waist, can put extra pressure on the stomach and LES, increasing the risk of acid reflux. Wearing loose-fitting clothing may help reduce the risk of GERD symptoms.
- Chew gum
Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which can help neutralize stomach acid. Choose a gum that contains the natural sweetener xylitol, as this has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing acid reflux.
- Try herbal remedies
You may alleviate GERD symptoms using natural remedies like slippery elm, chamomile tea, and aloe Vera juice. Slippery elm is a type of tree that produces a sticky, mucus-like substance that can coat and protect the lining of the esophagus. Chamomile tea is a soothing herb that may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach. Aloe Vera juice is a natural acid neutralizer that may help reduce acid reflux.
- Avoid lying down after eating
After eating, lying flat increases pressure on your esophageal sphincter, which makes it simpler for stomach juices to be pushed back up. Standing up, however, allows gravity to act in your favor and retains food in your stomach. It is best to eat three to four hours before going to bed so that your food has time to digest completely. Laying slightly elevated in your bed with a cushion tucked beneath you will help you get the most from this GERD home remedy.
GERD is a common digestive disorder that can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. While medications can be effective in managing symptoms, several home remedies and lifestyle changes may help alleviate the symptoms of GERD. It is important to see a doctor if you have persistent or severe symptoms of GERD.
Call Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, to book your appointment for GERD treatment.