Cure Acid Reflux Naturally

If you’ve ever noticed a burning or tightening sensation in your chest after eating, you know the discomfort of acid reflux. Over 60 million Americans experience symptoms associated with acid reflux at least once per month. More than 15 million reportedly suffer with symptoms on a daily basis[i].

So what causes acid reflux and how’s it treated? Let’s take an in-depth look at this condition and the treatment options.

What is Acid Reflux?

The esophageal sphincter connects the esophagus with the stomach. If this muscle doesn’t function effectively, stomach acids move backwards and cause acid reflux. The result mighjt be a burning sensation or tightness in the chest, known as heartburn. Other potential symptoms of acid reflux include a bitter taste at the back of the throat, a sour taste in the mouth and a cough or sore throat[ii].

Acid reflux  ranges in frequency and severity. When acid reflux occurs more than twice per week or causes inflammation of the esophagus it may be diagnosed as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This chronic form of acid reflux leads to additional problems such as tooth damage from excess acid moving upwards and into the mouth.

How to Test for Acid Reflux

The symptoms mentioned above may serve as initial indicators. Frequent and/or severe symptoms that don’t respond well to treatments should be looked at more closely. Tests such as esophageal manometry, pH monitoring, a barium swallow, and an endoscopy or biopsy are used to confirm a diagnosis and check for additional problems[iii].

The Relationship Between Acid Reflux and Weight Gain

Evidence suggests a relationship between acid reflux and weight gain. Although healthy weight individuals can experience the symptoms of acid reflux, the likelihood increases with the more weight you carry. Obesity, especially abdominal obesity, effects symptoms and complications from GERD [iv]. Weight loss may provide relief from GERD symptoms and keep it under control. For some it leads to complete resolution of GERD symptoms in overweight and obese subjects[v].

What Causes Acid Reflux?

As you now know, acid reflux is caused by excess acid in your esophagus. This doesn’t necessarily mean high acid in the stomach though, which we touch on later on in this article. Potential triggers causing acid reflux symptoms [vi] include:

• A hiatal hernia, which makes it easier for acid to move into the esophagus
• Pregnancy, due to the combined impact of hormone changes and increasing pressure from a growing fetus
• Smoking, which impairs muscle function and reflexes, increases acid secretion and reduces salivation
• Being overweight or obese
• Certain foods and beverages such as alcohol, fried and fatty foods, chocolate, spicy food, mint, citrus fruits and tomatoes, coffee or tea, garlic, onions and carbonated drinks
• Additional foods that cause gut inflammation (contributing to reflux symptoms) include: gluten, dairy or even grain containing foods
• Eating only 1-2 large volume meals per day, and eating a very large evening meal[vii]
• Low stomach acid (explained more below)

Symptoms may worsen if you bend over or lie down after eating a large meal. Certain medications also have the potential to exacerbate symptoms.

Does Sugar Cause Acid Reflux?

Anything that triggers inflammation in the gut can cause acid reflux (including sugar). Some of the common reflux trigger foods and drinks mentioned above contain high levels of sugar (e.g. carbonated drinks). For some individuals, it may not be the sugar itself, but other components or digestibility of highly processed and sugar loaded foods.

Frequent consumption of foods high in sugar contribute towards obesity. Remember, being overweight can increase the likelihood of getting acid reflux. Because weight loss often provides relief from acid reflux symptoms, taking steps to achieve a healthy weight range should be part of a healing protocol.

Can Lack of Sleep Cause Acid Reflux?

There is a strong relationship between GERD and lack of sleep, but the exact nature of that relationship is still being discovered. Sleep disorders may induce gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, and GI disorders often disrupt sleep[viii]. People with GERD report poorer sleep quality[ix]. Poor sleep quality can also increase the amount of acid in the stomach, and worsen the symptoms of acid reflux the following day[x].

Acid reflux appears multi-factorial. The discussion so far around weight gain, sugar, sleep and trigger foods begin to provide insight around some of the natural cure options. Before we take a look at a natural approach for treating acid reflux, let’s find out how it is treated conventionally.

What is the Conventional Approach for Treating Acid Reflux?

Antacids are the most common form of conventional treatment for acid reflux, GERD and symptoms of heartburn. They provide fast relief for the symptoms of acid reflux because they weaken stomach acid as soon as they reach it. The main active ingredient in antacids is usually calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminum hydroxide and/or magnesium hydroxide.

H2 blockers take longer to start working than antacids, but the effects tend to last longer. Brands include Pepcid and Zantac. Finally, proton pump inhibitors (PPI’S) including Nexium, Prilosec and Prevacid may be prescribed. They work by reducing the production of stomach acid and are usually offered when symptoms aren’t resolved with antacids.

Problems with Antacids and PPI’s?

PPI’s goal is to lower stomach acid. Unfortunately, that’s the wrong approach to take and often leaves people with worsened gut health. Think about it. The goal of the medication is to suppress stomach acid and prevent the symptoms of reflux, but the question not often asked is, “why is the stomach acid moving upwards in the first place?” The root issue requires addressing.

Stomach acid has a purpose, and a very important one at that. The stomach has high acidity to protect us. Let’s walk through the roles of stomach acid:

Stomach Acid…

• Triggers the release of pepsin, used to break down protein. Without protein breakdown, amino acids cannot be absorbed.
• Prevents undigested protein from reaching the small intestine and triggering an immune response (inflammation).
• Kills certain bacteria and prevents it from entering the small intestine and impacting our immune system.
• Stomach acid is important for micronutrient absorption like vitamin B12, folate, iron, calcium and many more.

If stomach acid is a good thing, why are acid blocking drugs so popular? Well, the simple answer is because they do provide relief, albeit a temporary Band-Aid. These medications were not meant to be used long-term. In fact, each bottle has a warning saying the pill should not be used for more than 14 days. However, most people find themselves on a daily dose for years.

Low Stomach Acid…

A very common underlying cause for acid reflux symptoms is low stomach acid. In this case, digestion (especially protein digestion) remains weak. Without adequate protein digestion, we fail to acheive proper amino acid absorption. Without amino acids, our system as a whole weakens. Amino acids are used for many, many things in the body including the immune system, tissue repair, brain/mood health, gut health, our metabolism, hair, skin, nails and so much more!

When stomach acid is low, the undigested food causes gas build up in the stomach and pushes open the sphincter that sits between the esophagus and the stomach. If that sphincter opens, stomach acid or gas gets through and creates the reflux symptoms. In this case, lowering the stomach acid even more with PPI’s becomes detrimental.

Studies Highlighting the Risks of These Drugs

Use of proton pump inhibitors has been linked to an increased risk for cancer. One study demonstrated that PPI’s increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma[xi]. Stomach acid helps absorb vitamin B12. A study on B12 absorption before and after Prilosec (a PPI) showed that the drug decreased B12 absorption in a dose-dependent manner[xii]. PPI’s can also reduce the uptake and absorption of other important minerals in the body including zinc[xiii] and magnesium[xiv].

How to Tackle Acid Reflux Naturally

Now it’s time for the most exciting part…how to treat your acid reflux naturally! If you want to steer clear of the potential risks associated with treating your acid reflux conventionally, check out some gentler approaches. These suggestions help to create a balanced and healthy internal environment, aimed at fixing your acid reflux for good.

Acid Reflux and Exercise

Exercise is one way to help keep your body weight in a healthy range, therefore, it’s useful in your quest for eliminating acid reflux.

But does exercise help acid reflux itself? The correct timing and type of exercise could help acid reflux symptoms, or at least ensure they are not aggravated. However, some types could make symptoms worse.

Start with gentle forms of exercise in an upright position and monitor your body’s response. If everything is fine,  consider progressing to more intense exercise. Be cautious of vigorous exercise such as running, skipping, jumping, gymnastics and weightlifting. High impact exercise could force acid into the esophagus and worsen symptoms. Body positions that involve bending for extended periods or going upside down may also trigger symptoms.

In terms of timing exercise sessions, aim to work out with a relatively empty stomach. This involves a little planning to ensure you’ve got the necessary fuel on board for a workout, but that your last meal has been well digested. Exercising too soon after a meal can initiate acid reflux[xv].

Tackling Acid Reflux with Diet

So, which foods cause acid reflux? We’ve already mentioned some of the foods and drinks that commonly trigger acid reflux symptoms. It’s best to limit or avoid these foods altogether during gut healing. Consider a trial removal period of gluten, dairy or even grain containing foods. If a trial elimination is intimidating to you, let our 131 Method support team help guide, educate and support you through the process!

For detailed guidance and explanation of the importance of gut health, check out the 131 Method program.

The most obvious suggestion is to monitor your symptoms after eating certain foods. If they aggravate you, eliminate or limit accordingly. It may be a good idea to record your symptoms in a food diary so you can more easily associate your symptoms with certain foods. Everyone is different, so take note of the foods that personally work well for you, and the ones that don’t.

What to include while trying to improve your acid reflux symptoms varies by individual because we all have different immune systems. Basic suggestions include the following (but, of course, know whether or not they agree with you personally).

• Healthy fats including avocados, nuts and seeds
• All vegetables (be mindful of added fat, flavor or sauces)
• Non citrus fruits such as apples and bananas
• Fermented foods and drinks to promote healthy gut bacteria, including fermented vegetables (e.g. sauerkraut), tempeh, apple cider vinegar, kefir and yogurt
• Mineral rich bone broths

Be mindful of meal timings and portion sizes and monitor symptoms and adjust your choices accordingly. It’s also a good idea to always sit down when eating meals, ensuring meal times are relaxing. Chew your food well and eat slowly to help your body’s ability to digest your food properly.

Recipes for Acid Reflux Sufferers

For a delicious breakfast, try these one pot steel cut apple cinnamon oats. It’s a great option if you like a bit of fruit but you need to avoid citrus, which can aggravate acid reflux symptoms. Add a little ginger if desired, to help support your digestion further.

If you’re looking for a healthy sweet treat, check out these tasty PB&J blueberry muffins. The healthy fats from the peanut butter will help to satiate you without triggering your symptoms like fried snacks could.

If you want to make a juice for acid reflux, experiment with any combination of vegetables and non-citrus fruits. The addition of ginger can further help to ease any digestive distress and will add a tasty zing to your juice.

Many herbal teas can help support a healthy digestive system and ease your acid reflux symptoms. Just be sure to avoid any type of mint teas, which sometimes worsen symptoms in some people. Chamomile has a calming and soothing effect on the digestive system[xvii].

Supplements to Consider

In addition to a healthy food and drink intake, some natural supplements can help to support a healthy digestive system, and in turn, improve your acid reflux systems. We encourage a holistic approach when it comes to treating acid reflux. Taking a supplement with a view of it being a “cure-all” is unwise. They should be used in conjunction with nutrition and other lifestyle adjustments.

Some holistic supplements include:

• Probiotics to help balance out good and bad gut bacteria. Repopulate the good bacteria to help resolve problems of indigestion and inability to absorb nutrients properly. Remember that fermented foods are also a good source of natural probiotics. Gut health is extremely important to healing the root cause of reflux.
• A high quality magnesium supplement may reduce the symptoms of heartburn[xviii]. As previously mentioned, magnesium hydroxide may be one of the active ingredients in antacids. Remember that PPI’s can also block the absorption of minerals such as magnesium, so if you’ve taken them in the past, it could be even more important to top off your magnesium stores.
• Some early studies suggest that melatonin could be useful for treating GERD[xix]
• Digestive enzymes can help your body to break down food and absorb nutrients properly[xx] so they are also worth considering.
• Additional aids like aloe vera juice, DGL or mastic gum may provide temporary relief, but remember, you targeting the root cause is of the utmost importance.

If you’re taking any medication, talk to your health practitioner about any possible interaction risks with supplements and herbs.

Other Natural Options

• As a general recommendation, ensure you eat your last meal of the evening at least 2-3 hours before going to bed in order to allow time for digestion before lying down. Try using blocks to lift the top end of your bed to aid digestion. Don’t use higher pillows which only act to lift your head and place added strain on the neck.
• If you smoke, start a plan to give up.
• For acid reflux in children, natural remedies should focus around dietary adjustments similar to adults. Yogurt is often a favorite for children and helps to calm their digestive systems and promote the growth of good gut bacteria. Check with a health practitioner regarding the safety of any supplements for children. Second hand smoke should also be avoided for children with acid reflux.
• Manage your stress levels, as high stress exacerbates symptoms. Choose a relaxation practice that resonates with you, such as yoga, tai chi, music or meditation. Avoid taking on too many commitments at once and always make sure you plan a little downtime just for yourself each day.

For a comprehensive understanding of gut health and how to optimize it naturally, check out the 131 Method!

Resources:

[i] http://patients.gi.org/topics/acid-reflux/

[ii] https://healthline.com/health/gerd/heartburn-vs-acid-reflux#acid-reflux

[iii] https://webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/qa/what-tests-are-used-to-diagnose-acid-reflux-disease

[iv] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2668774/

[v] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3853378/

[vi] https://webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/common-causes-acid-reflux-disease

[vii] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4223119/

[viii] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2879818/

[ix] https://sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/10/051031080008.htm

[x] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1978337/

[xi] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29897132

[xii] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8273984

[xiii] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5139861/

[xiv] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4527261/

[xv] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16646627

[xvi] https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/

[xvii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/

[xviii] https://webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-998/magnesium 

[xix] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20082715

[xx] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4923703/