- 1. Water with lemon
- 2. Ginger tea
- 3. Baking soda
- 4. Chamomile tea
- 5. Aloe juice
- Simple tips to treat reflux
Home remedies for gastroesophageal reflux are a very practical and simple way to relieve discomfort during crises. However, these remedies should not replace the doctor's instructions, and the ideal is to use them to complement the indicated treatment.
Reflux occurs when acidic acid from the stomach rises into the esophagus and into the mouth, causing pain and burning sensation especially after meals. Here's how to fight reflux naturally:
1. Water with lemon
Lemon water is an ancient natural remedy widely used to relieve heartburn and reflux discomfort, as in some people it has the power to alkalinize gastric acid and act as a natural antacid.
However, several studies have also found that lemon water can make symptoms worse in some people. So, ideally, try lemon water and, if symptoms worsen, opt for other options.
To make this natural remedy, one tablespoon of lemon juice is usually added to a glass of warm water. This mixture can be drunk up to 30 minutes before meals.
2. Ginger tea
In addition to all its properties, ginger is also very effective in improving digestion because it stimulates the digestive system to produce more enzymes and decreases the time that the food stays in the stomach, preventing reflux. See more benefits of ginger.
Due to its content in phenolic compounds, ginger can also be excellent for relieving gastric irritation, decreasing the chances of gastric acid going up into the esophagus. However, further studies are needed to prove this effect.
To use ginger and relieve reflux, you can add 4 to 5 slices or 2 tablespoons of ginger zest in a liter of ice water and drink throughout the day, for example.
3. Baking soda
Sodium bicarbonate is a natural alkalizing salt that can be used to decrease stomach acidity in times of crisis. In fact, bicarbonate is even used in some antacid remedies sold at the pharmacy, being a great homemade option.
To use bicarbonate, mix 1 teaspoon of the powder in 250 ml of water and drink at least half of the mixture to obtain the desired effect.
4. Chamomile tea
Chamomile is a natural tranquilizer that helps to treat stomach problems, control poor digestion and treat stomach ulcers. To help treat reflux, it is recommended to take 2 to 3 cups of tea a day.
In addition, chamomile also helps to relieve anxiety and stress, which are an important cause of reflux. See more benefits of this plant.
5. Aloe juice
Aloe vera has calming properties that help to calm the inflammation of the esophagus and stomach, reducing pain and burning caused by reflux, and is also useful in the treatment of gastritis.
To prepare this juice, just open two leaves of aloe vera and remove all its pulp, peel half an apple and add, together with a little water, in a blender and beat well.
In addition, there are even foods that can help improve reflux. Find out what dietary guidelines to improve reflux.
See also in the video below some tips to treat reflux naturally:
Simple tips to treat reflux
Other important tips for treating reflux are:
- Avoid drinking liquids during meals; Avoid lying down in the 30 minutes after meals; Chew and eat slowly; Wear loose clothing that does not tighten at the waist; Eat meals in small quantities, especially at dinner; Eat at least 2 hours before bed; Avoid liquid meals with dinner, such as soups or broths; lie on the bed on the left side to prevent the stomach contents from reaching the esophagus and, consequently, the mouth.
Another tip that works very well is to place a piece of wood at least 10 centimeters under the feet of the bed, on the side of the headboard. This wedge will cause the body to be slightly tilted, preventing stomach acid from going up into the esophagus, causing reflux. If treatment with medications or natural remedies does not improve the symptoms, surgery may be needed to cure reflux.
