Gastric acid disease, also known in the medical world as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a time when stomach acid rises to the esophagus and is characterized by pain in the solar plexus until a burning sensation in the chest. This disease can be very disturbing activities especially when you are busy.
Before turning directly to doctor's medicines, there are natural remedies that you can try to reduce the unwanted side effects of this uncomfortable disease. Remember, this can only reduce the symptoms felt, not cure the stomach acid itself. Reporting from various sources, read more below:
1. Make a baking soda mixture
One teaspoon of baking soda can neutralize stomach acid so that when your stomach acid rises, you won't feel a burning sensation. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 8 ounces of water and drink it all.
Repeat as needed, but do not exceed 7 times a day. Also avoid using this mixture for more than a week, because of its high salt content and can cause other side effects such as nausea to swelling.
2. Chew gum
When you feel symptoms of stomach acid, try chewing sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after eating. This was suggested in a study conducted by the Journal of Dental Research. Chewing gum stimulates the salivary glands thereby increasing saliva production. Saliva can help clear any acid.
3. Avoid sleep after eating
When you eat and then sleep, your food can easily be pushed back up. But when you stand up, gravity works and helps your stomach keep food. You can sleep after three or four hours to give time for your food to be thoroughly digested and not cause your stomach acid to go up.
4. Eat fruits
Not just any fruit - bananas have natural antacid properties that fight stomach acid. Eat ripe bananas every day to reduce the symptoms produced when stomach acid rises. Apples can also help reduce the symptoms of GERD.
To prevent discomfort at night, slice the apple and eat a few hours before bedtime. Be sure to avoid fruits with high acid content such as oranges, grapes and pineapple.
5. Drink ginger tea
Ginger tea is great for many stomach ailments, from general stomach aches to nausea to chronic GERD. For perfect flavor, boil the ginger root slices in water for 30 minutes. For maximum benefit, drink tea before meals to prevent GERD.
6. Eat mustard
Mustard is full of minerals and contains vinegar which is a weak acid. Mustard also contains alkaline so that it can neutralize acids that arise due to GERD. Try eating 1 teaspoon of mustard when you start to feel an attack of stomach acid symptoms.
7. Drink chamomile tea
To balance the acidity in your stomach, you can also drink a cup of chamomile tea. Try drinking this tea 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. Chamomile also reduces stress levels, which can contribute to heartburn. You don't have to boil it from a leaf, now even instant chamomile tea is available at the supermarket.
Simply boil the water, add the chamomile leaves and simmer for about 45 seconds. You can also directly follow the instructions and suggestions for making your instant chamomile tea wrapper. Add honey or lemon if you like.
Try the seven ways above when your stomach acid symptoms really interfere with your activities. If you experience stomach acid very often, don't hesitate to seek professional medical help! Have a healthy life!