All-Natural Ways to Reduce GERD

Natural Methods of Reducing GERD

In the United States of America, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been observed to be affecting millions of individuals including in Houston where we are. When you are getting up in the night complaining of heartburns or when your chest is burning after a meal, you are not alone. The good news? You do not necessarily require drugs to feel better, which are prescribed. In the following post, we will provide simple, natural solutions to help minimise the symptoms of GERD.

What is GERD?

GERD occurs when the gastrointestinal juice returns to the esophagus. In the long run, this acid may cause irritation of the lining and result in discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the chest (heartburn)
• The throat becomes acidic or bitter
• Trouble swallowing
• Persistent cough or clearance of the throat

National Institutes of health (NIH) states that almost 20 percent of the adult population in the U.S. reports GERD symptoms every week. Simple changes of lifestyle are a relief to many. [Source: NIH]

Quote from Dr. Bharat Pothuri
GERD happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus and causes symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, or trouble swallowing.

Detect and prevent Trigger Foods

Among the fastest methods of alleviating GERD, avoidance of food which irritates your esophagus will help. Add up to thirty foods of your own list of foods to avoid with GERD by using the short list presented below.

Foods to Avoid with GERD

• Bergamot (citrus fruits, oranges, grapefruit)
• Tomatoes and tomato sauces
• Chocolate
• Peppermint
• Fried or fatty foods
• Hot meals (salsas, hot peppers)
• Caffeine (coffee, tea, cola)
• Alcohol (wine, beer, spirits)

What may be triggering reflux in one individual may not be triggering reflux in another. Maintain a basic food journal of two weeks. Record what you eat and record heartburn. With time, patterns will be evident.

Build a Simple GERD Diet Plan

Considerate GERD diet is concerned with soft, alkaline and fiber foods. The following is an example of an everyday plan to start with:

Breakfast

• Oatmeal with sliced banana
• Herbal tea (chamomile or licorice root)

Mid-Morning Snack

• A handful of almonds
• Cold water and cucumber slice

Lunch

• Tofu/chicken grilled wrap with mixed greens (no tomato)
• Side of steamed green beans

Afternoon Snack

• No citrus fruit (melon or pears)
• Whole-grain crackers

Dinner

• Baked salmon or white fish
• Quinoa or brown rice
• Steamed vegetables, broccoli and carotts

Evening

• A cup of ginger tea

Best Foods for GERD

• Whole grains Brown rice, whole-wheat bread, oats
• Low-fat proteins: fish, tofu, turkey, and chicken
• Fruits with low acid: pears, apples and melons
• Vegetables: broccoli, snap peas, leafy greens
• Unsaturated fats: flaxseed, olive oil, avocado

Eating and Portion size

Eating well is an exercise of great importance as well as eating. Try these simple habits:

• Eat frequent meals Have five or six mini-meals.
• Take your time to chew, hence allow your saliva the time to counter acid.
• Do not eat too close to bed, two hours before going to bed. Let gravity keep acid down.
• Sit up during and after taking meals, A straight posture will inhibit reflux.

Can Anxiety Cause GERD? The Stress Connection

In reflex, stress and anxiety are significant. Fight or flight mode can also slow down a digestive process and weaken the lower esophageal sphincter the muscle that holds the acid in your stomach.

According to Dr. Pothuri: Although symptoms ameliorate in patients who are taught relaxation techniques. Mind-body therapies are in addition to diet and lifestyle changes.

The following strategies will help reduce stress:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive relaxation of muscle
• Gentle yoga or Pilates
• This is a five minutes guided meditation

Natural Medications and Nutritionals

In addition to food, there are natural cures that may calm down your esophagus and allow your intestines to be healthy.

1. Cider Vinegar for GERD

Stomach pH can be balanced using a small amount of daily dose (one teaspoon in 8 oz water). Begin slowly some people are relieved, others are not.

2. Aloe Vera Juice

Drink 1/4 cup before meals. Aloe vera (pure) is used to line the digestive tract.

3. Probiotics

Find live-culture yogurts or supplements of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. They facilitate good gut action.

4. Melatonin

Melatonin supplement with low dose and at bedtime can help in improving the esophageal muscle tone and decrease night reflux.

5. Herbal Teas

• Ginger tea is calming nausea and inflammatory.
• Chamomile tea assists you in unwinding prior to going to sleep.

Note: Supplements should be taken in their entirety, before or after a meal.

Reflux prevention Lifestyle changes

To make yourself do the following changes easily, you need to include them into your daily routine:

• Raise your bed 6-8 inches of the head. Apply hard blocks or a wedge to pillow.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Even loss of 5-10 pounds helps in alleviating reflux.
• She should quit smoking - Tobacco may weaken the esophageal sphincter.
• Wear loosely - Belt up your stomach with tight belts or waistbands.

Houston Resources and Brand Mentions

Your local agents in Houston! Consider:

• Houston Methodist Dietitians- GERD nutrition counseling
• Baylor St. Luke Children- Gastroenterology, Medical Center
• Gastrodoxs Natural Foods- Our brand is found in the select farmers markets in Houston and we have snacks and teas never tested on the heart

Comparison Table - Trigger Foods and Natural Substitutes

When to See a Doctor

Mild GERD can be treated at home by the majority of the population. Consult the doctor in case of:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent vomiting
• Pain in the chest imitating a heart attack

To treat and diagnose correctly visit a gastroenterologist. More information on the symptoms and treatment can be found on the Mayo Clinic site.

Conclusion

GERD does not need to be in control of your life. With just tiny all-natural adjustments to your diet and lifestyle, you will be able to cut the symptoms greatly and have a wonderful time back at the table. Keep in mind what Dr. Pothuri told me: - Consistency is the major. Keep on course and follow up. Gastrodoxs is with you here in Houston on your way to gut health.

References

• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• Mayo Clinic GERD Overview
• WebMD Acid Reflux Basics

We wish this guide will aid you in achieving a natural remedy of GERD. Stay healthy, Houston!