If you’ve ever experienced a burning sensation in your stomach or throat after eating a heavy meal or drinking coffee, you may have had heartburn or indigestion. Occasional heartburn is typically harmless, but if it occurs frequently, it could be a sign of GERD, a more severe form of heartburn that affects about 20% of U.S. adults. If left untreated, GERD can lead to long-term complications with the esophagus. Fortunately, there are medications and natural remedies available for GERD relief.
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, causes a painful burning sensation in the chest due to stomach contents coming back up into the esophagus and throat. Symptoms include chest pain, nausea, difficulty swallowing, and a chronic cough. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is responsible for preventing stomach acids from refluxing into the esophagus, but if it becomes weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t, it can lead to GERD.
Various factors can cause the LES to relax inappropriately, such as being overweight, pregnancy, smoking, certain medications, or having a hiatal hernia. Making diet and lifestyle changes can help manage GERD, including trying natural remedies. Here are 13 natural remedies for GERD that may provide relief:
- Chewing gum: Stimulates saliva production to neutralize stomach acid.
- Ginger: Traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal issues and may aid in digestion.
- Baking soda: Acts as a natural antacid to neutralize stomach acid.
- Avoid talking while eating: Talking while eating can increase pressure on the LES.
- Eat small, frequent meals: Larger meals can put extra pressure on the LES, causing acid reflux.
- Increase fiber intake: Fiber can help reduce heartburn and acid reflux.
- Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL): Increases the mucus coating of the esophageal lining.
- Chamomile tea: May have a soothing effect on the digestive tract.
These natural remedies may help alleviate GERD symptoms, but it’s important to consult with a doctor before trying any new treatment, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. By addressing GERD early on with natural remedies and lifestyle changes, you can manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
