Home Remedies For GERD – Treat This Digestive Disorder Permanently
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly called as GERD, is a persistent troublesome digestive disorder that occurs mainly due to the exacerbation of acid reflux, a condition characterized by the regurgitation or flowing back of gastric acids a into the esophagus. Occasional acid reflux are common and not a serious medical issue, but recurrent backflow of stomach acids can result in the irritation of esophageal lining, which consecutively leads to the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The signs and symptoms produced by this GERD include frequent incidences of acid reflux, heartburn or a feeling of burning in the chest, sour mouth taste, soar throat, feeling of a lump in the throat, difficulty with swallowing, dry cough and chest pain..
Unlike acid reflux, GERD is a serious disease that, if not treated properly, can cause severe medical problems such as esophageal ulcers, thinning of esophagus, and the Barrett’s esophagus. Since this s a chronic illness, you may require ongoing treatment to control and prevent the symptoms of GERD. Fortunately, several home remedies for GERD have been found to be extremely effective and safe in preventing and managing this digestive disorder. Actually, these remedies are a boom for those who do not want to take prescription medications.
Diet and lifestyle changes are definitely the most effective home remedies for GERD. Certain types of foods are widely regarded as the main culprits for the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and it is very essential that you should eliminate these foods from your diet. Foods that may set off your GERD symptoms include spicy and oily foods, fruits that contain citric acid, caffeinated drinks, tomato-based food items, garlic, onion, mint, chocolate, alcohol, and vinegar. If you are overweight, try to reduce weight, as obesity can contribute to GERD.
Refrain from drinking too much. Eat smaller meals and avoid lying down right after a meal. You should not eat anything close to your bedtime. Smoking is another risk factor for GERD and quitting smoking can be really helpful. Evade wearing tight clothes or tight belts. In order to avert nighttime GERD symptoms, elevate the head of your bed a few inches by placing wood or bricks under the feet of the bed. Reducing your stress and anxiety levels is also one of the home remedies for GERD that may help you prevent GERD outbreaks.
Demulcent herbs are known for their ability to calm the irritated mucous membranes and to protect the esophagus from stomach acids. Demulcents like meadowsweet, marshmallow, licorice, and slippery elm are considered as good home remedies for GERD. Taking an infusion or tincture of chamomile, an anti-inflammatory herb, can also relieve the symptoms of GERD. However, you should consult with your doctor before taking any of these herbs for GERD.
Consuming a mixture of ginger root extract and honey is a great way to avoid GERD. Another one among the simple home remedies for GERD is to drink tender coconut water or cold skim milk every two hours. Mix one tablespoon of coconut oil with eight ounces of water and take this mixture to reduce your GERD symptoms.
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