6 Tools for Acid Reflux Relief
Acid reflux (and GERD - aka gastroesophageal reflux disease - which is a more severe, chronic form of acid reflux), occurs when there is a backflow of stomach contents (ie. stomach acid) into the esophagus, that causes a burning sensation and pain in the chest area.
Long-term, chronic acid reflux can have serious implications for stomach and esophageal health.
Acid reflux is often assumed to be caused by having high stomach acid levels.. but I'd like to argue the contrary:
If we have LOW levels of stomach acid, we may not be able to properly digest and absorb nutrients like carbohydrates, and we may not be able to properly neutralize bacteria in our stomach. These bacteria have the ability to ferment these undigested carbohydrates, producing gas as a byproduct.
These factors can lead to the increase of intra-abdominal pressure, which can then lead to symptoms like acid reflux and GERD.
The unfortunate thing is that frequenting PPI's, or antacids can actually perpetuate this cycle. It's not getting to the root of why there is acid reflux or GERD occurring in the first place.
By using PPI's and antacids, stomach acid secretion is hindered. This could mean that you're not properly digesting your food, properly releasing intrinsic factor (which is required for the absorption of B12), or neutralizing bacteria that could cause issues for you further down your digestive tract
While tums, PPIS, and what I'm about to share with you here are NOT a long-term solution to your acid reflux — it's REALLY important to get to the root cause of why this is occuring for you — I did want to share a few things you can have on hand to help you, if you do experience this:
Here are 6 things you can have on hand at home, or try, in that case you experience acid reflux and need some relief:
1. Slippery Elm
This herbal is a 'mucilage', creating a gel-like consistency when mixed with water, which can help coat the esophageal and stomach lining, and soothe irritated tissue. It can be found in many supplement formulas that are meant to soothe and lower inflammation in the GI tract, or likewise it can be purchased in bulk as a powder, and taken as a tea.
2. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice)
Similar to slippery elm, deglycyrrhizinated licorice is great for supporting a healthy mucosal lining, and soothing irritated and inflamed tissue. You can buy these in a chewable form, and they generally provide super-fast relief of the pain and burning associated with acid reflux. If you're a fan of anise or black licorice, you'll looove this one.
3. Aloe Juice
Aloe juice is amaaaazing for soothing the esophageal + stomach lining, and is anti-inflammatory (similar to how aloe gel is great for a sunburn! 🥵). You can have a small glass of this on it's own, or you can dilute it in water.
DO NOT consume aloe gel that's topical — you can find aloe juice meant for consumption at your local health food store.
One thing to note, is that aloe juice can act as a gentle laxative — just FYI so there are no surprises should you choose to go with this one!
4. Reduce LES Relaxing Foods
Certain foods relax the esophageal sphincter (the valve that separates the esophagus and the stomach). When this becomes relaxed, it can allow acid up through, and into the esophagus, causing that burning feeling.
Reduce or avoid these LES relaxing foods to help here:
peppermint
garlic
onions
alcohol
coffee
citrus and citrus juices
5. Marshmallow Root
Another mucilaginous herb that's great for soothing and calming irritated and inflamed tissue of the gastrointestinal tract, is marshmallow root. Similar to slippery elm and DGL, this herb will often be found in gut-soothing supplement formulas, or likewise you can purchase it separately as a tea, and tip on it in times of need.
6. Ginger + Turmeric
The GI-friendly, inflammation-busting duo! These are great to have on hand as teas, as whole foods, and powdered herbs for as-needed, or preventative support of acid reflux. Both act as anti-inflammatories and help to soothe and settle irritated tissue that's often associated with acid reflux and GERD.
Though I've personally overcome my GERD, and successfully increased my stomach acid levels after years of PPI use — I do like keeping a number of these herbs on hand in the case of an acute acid-reflux episode.
Might be something you want to keep handy in your pantry!
Acid reflux & GERD is something that I help clients get to the bottom of (and have overcome in my own health & healing!) — if this is something that you struggle with and want to get to the root of, then I invite you check out my signature 1:1 program: The Gut Restore Method.
