NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ACID REFLUX

Acid reflux, also called heartburn or gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), happens when stomach acid rises into the esophagus due to a weakened esophageal sphincter, according to doctors at the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology clinic. Chest discomfort, a burning sensation in your upper stomach or lower throat and occasionally a bad taste in your mouth characterize the disease. If you're tired of buying a new pack of antacids every day, perhaps a diet change can do the trick.

Complex Carbs
Eat breads and grains that are low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates, recommends Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Try to avoid heavily processed breads that are high in fat and low in nutrition. Writers at Health Castle recommend eating multiple small meals every day instead of large meals since a large meal on your stomach requires additional stomach acids. Make sure you eat plenty of rice, pasta and breads. These help ensure that the acids in your stomach have complex foods to break down.

Vegetables/Fruits
Avoid processed fruits and vegetables or foods that have a high citric acid content, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Its doctors recommend eating apples, bananas and other fresh fruit. Apples are high in complex carbohydrates, and researchers at HealthCave.com say that they contain chemicals that help strengthen the sphincter muscle that causes acid reflux. Bananas are natural antacids, according to the website. Another helpful tip is to take 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar with lukewarm water daily. Researchers at HealthCave.com say the solution helps prevent acid buildup.

Dairy Products
Milk, cheese and other dairy products are naturally high in calcium, a natural inhibitor of stomach acid, according to HealthCave.com. Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology notes that you should choose skim or other low-fat dairy products because foods that contain high fat content will remain in your stomach for a longer period than low-fat foods. You should also avoid eating at fast food chains, since many of the products found in fast food restaurants are high in fat content.