When excess acid occurs in the stomach (known as acid reflux), most people turn to over-the-counter antacids. They are easy to get and generally effective. But who wants to keep taking these medications when there are natural ways that they can relieve pain without negative health effects?
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Causes of excess acid in the stomach
When we ingest food or drinks, these as they pass from our esophagus to the stomach, must be “sealed” by a muscle called the “lower esophageal sphincter”, which prevents the acids from turning upward.
However, due to various factors and chronic conditions, this valve can malfunction, causing it to relax at the wrong time and allowing the acid to back up, which is called “reflux.” While excess acid production in the stomach is not necessarily the cause of reflux, these factors can be interrelated and must be addressed together.
Natural remedies to reduce acid in the stomach
With these natural remedies you will be able to stop excess acid in the stomach quickly, without side effects and with foods that you surely have at your fingertips.
Mint leaves
Mint leaves are very effective in reducing acid in the stomach, in addition to the properties of the menthol it contains, it helps improve digestion by stimulating the proper functioning of the stomach. Thanks to its cooling effect, heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms can be eliminated quickly. Here you can see how you can use peppermint leaves for immediate relief:
- Try to have fresh mint leaves.
- Boil a pot of water.
- When it is boiling, add the chopped mint leaves.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
- Drink this mint water to accompany your main dishes, or after eating.
Bananas
If you like to eat bananas, this is one more reason why you should keep eating these fruits. Bananas are high in potassium, which can keep your heartburn in check. Bananas also help in the production of a substance in the stomach, which protects it from excess acid. The high fiber content also helps speed up digestion, which can reduce the recurrence of acid reflux. For best results, you can eat a ripe banana, as it has more potassium than a regular banana.
Cold milk
The high calcium content of milk is good for preventing acid build-up in the stomach. Anytime you feel a burning sensation in your stomach that reaches your throat, a glass of cold milk can soothe it. It really helps if the milk you choose is free of sugar or other additives and preferably organic milk.
Ginger
It is no secret that ginger is a good ingredient that can be used to relieve stomach problems. When it comes to indigestion, as well as excess acid in the stomach, you can also turn to ginger to help soothe your heartburn. It also helps prevent ulcers by promoting the secretion of viscous alkaline mucus, which protects the stomach lining.
The most advisable thing is to drink ginger water, in addition to being an efficient way to consume it, it can help improve digestion and also stimulate weight loss.
Probiotics and fermented foods
Ideally, you should add fermented and probiotic foods regularly to your diet, these drinks and preparations are recommended because they will fill your intestine with microorganisms necessary for a healthier intestinal flora. You can include some of the following foods:
- Natural yogurt (without any sweetener)
- Kefir
- Fermented vegetables
- Sour cream
- Chutneys
Other recommendations to keep in mind to treat excess stomach acid is to control anxiety levels and daily stress. This has a great impact on our digestive system and intestinal health, being one of the main causes of autoimmune diseases. So now you know, learn to take control of your emotions and a more balanced life.