Natural Ways of Managing Acid Reflux

As we grow older, the muscular valve of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LEC) weakens. This means that the LES is usually less efficient in preventing stomach content leakages into the esophageal in older people. When such is the case, natural acid reflux occurs. The chronic condition also occurs if a person has a protrusion of the upper stomach to the thoracic area (hiatus hernia). Most of us know natural acid reflux simply as heart burn. Medically referred to as reflux esophagitis, acid reflux affects 10 percent of the entire population in the United States on a daily basis.

Simply perceived as a problem that occurs due to increased acidity in the stomach, most people are quick to self-medicate with over the counter pills which offer relief for the same. The drugs are mainly protonpump inhibitors or H2 blockers manufactured and marketed by drug companies. However, Much as this seems fast and convenient way of dealing with natural acid reflux, medics state that the drugs work by reducing hydrochloric acid in ones stomach hence compromising the bodys ability to efficiently digest food. This increases a persons chances of suffering persistent degenerative diseases especially as they grow older. Worse still, the reduction of stomach acid by the over the counter drugs reduces the bodys defense against food-borne disease thus increasing the likelihood of suffering more bouts of food poisoning.

Medics usually recommend ways that can effectively balance the stomach acid without severe effects. Such includes drinking sufficient water in order to normalize the pH in the stomach by diluting the acid. Other options include eating foods that contain enzymes that hasten the digestion process. Such includes papaya and apple cider vinegar. These foods work in preventing natural acid reflux by increasing the digestion rate; food is able to pass to other parts of the stomach before leaking back to the esophagus.

Minding ones diet could also be part of the solution to natural acid reflux problems. Salts, oils, spices, nuts, fats and over processed foods should be eaten in moderation. Such increases the chances of developing indigestion, which often manifest itself as heartburn, constant belching, satiety or regurgitation. Exercising also aids in digestion, which means that people who exercise often will be at a reduced risk of developing natural acid reflux since the physical activity helps jumpstart the digestion. Other natural acid reflux remedies include quitting smoking, reducing weight in obese people, and avoiding tight clothes around the stomach area especially in people who suffer abdominal obesity.

Often, a physician will recommend a person to try out the natural acid reflux remedies first before prescribing medicine. In cases where the acid reflux has caused injuries such as reflux esophagitis, esophageal stricture, Barretts esophagus or esophageal adeno-carcinoma, surgery might be recommended.