Monday, September 1, 2008

Many people prefer to use natural treatments over medications. Herbal treatments are another common acid reflux treatment. There are many available herbal treatments, but not all may work equally well. It does take longer to see results with herbs for acid reflux treatment. It may take up to two months to know whether a particular herb is having a therapeutic effect.

Herbs that decrease stomach acid in acid reflux treatment include slippery elm, flax, licorice, calendula, wild yam and meadowsweet. Care is needed in using licorice in those with high blood pressure and heart disease as it can worsen the condition.

Other herbs are known for relieving indigestion that can lead to acid reflux. One of these herbs is chamomile. It has been used for centuries for its calming properties. It is believed to lead to lower stomach acid because of its high calcium content.

Ginger can help with digestion and nausea. Peppermint is also good for digestion, and when used as a drop on the tongue can help with heartburn.

Lavender is known for reducing stomach acid and is a popular acid reflux treatment. Lavender is a popular herb and is known for healing properties over the entire body.

Digestive enzymes seem to be gaining in popularity for their ability to aid in the digestive process. Undigested food, especially protein can lead to acid reflux. Digestive enzymes used as acid reflux treatment can ensure the stomach has enough hydrochloric acid to digest the protein that can lead to acid reflux if left undigested. An enzyme supplement containing betain or pepsin, or papaya should be taken with meals to ensure proper digestion of protein.

Pineapples and lemons can also be used for acid reflux treatment. Pineapples support digestion, and have a high level of the enzyme bromelain, that helps prevent acid reflux.
Lemons dipped in salt can also prevent acid reflux.

Acid reflux treatment also depends greatly on diet. There are many foods known to trigger acid reflux. While not all foods will affect everyone in the same way, certain foods have a higher incidence of acid reflux symptoms. Foods that should generally be avoided include peppermint, chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, citrus juices, and tomato products. The affect of these foods may be mild to severe depending on the acid reflux sufferer. Others will find they have no problems with the foods listed, but will have problems with other foods. A good way to detect a connection with foods and acid reflux would be to keep a food journal for 2-3 weeks. Write down everything eaten and any symptoms experienced. Smaller, more frequent meals can also go a long way in relieving the symptoms of acid reflux.

Millions of adults suffer with acid reflux on a daily basis. Acid reflux is common but it is not a trivial problem. Acid reflux can greatly impact a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, a wide variety of acid reflux treatments are available. With the vast array of prescription, over-the-counter, herbal remedies, natural treatments and diet and lifestyle changes, acid reflux can be treated successfully in most people.

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