Acid reflux can plague someone from time to time. Whether it’s because you’ve just finished a spicy dish or you’ve decided to go to bed too soon after eating a full meal, the sensation of acid reflux, (sometimes called ” heartburn ” due to the stinging sensations it can cause in the chest) is very uncomfortable.
However, there is no need to suffer or spend the entire day taking store-bought antacid medications. The sodium bicarbonate is a natural and healthy way to curb acid reflux. Read on to find out exactly how you should use baking soda to get rid of acid reflux.
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What is acid reflux and what causes it?
Acid reflux occurs when acids from the stomach move up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation and interfering with proper digestive processes.
This occurs when the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus opens and allows acids to enter the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux can erode the lining of the esophagus and cause permanent damage. The most common causes of occasional or chronic acid reflux include:
- Eating very spicy, acidic or fatty foods.
- Being overweight is associated with a type of hernia that causes reflux.
- Pregnancy.
- Food intolerances.
- Allergies.
- Certain medications (aspirin or NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example) can increase the risk of reflux.
- Smoke.
Baking soda – a natural relief for acid reflux.
There are many uses for baking soda. It is not only used as a fluffing or rising agent for baked goods, or as a household cleaner. I have already mentioned that baking soda can also be used as a cooking medicine, as well as a natural healing compound.
Baking soda can help end acid reflux and even prevent it from coming back.
Your body’s pancreas produces baking soda to stop excess acids in the digestive system. Smoking and other lifestyle choices can restrict this ability, increasing the risk of acid reflux. Sodium bicarbonate is believed to mimic the same effects as the body’s natural baking soda production.
How to use baking soda for acid reflux?
Finish off your acid reflux by following your meals with a potent little dose of baking soda.
- Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in a full 8-ounce glass of cold water until completely dissolved.
- You can drink this mixture after a meal to treat and prevent acid reflux.
- Never drink baking soda right after eating. Drinking baking soda on a full stomach can harm rather than repair. Wait until you have digested your food, after an hour or two and then take it.
- That’s all there is to it, just baking soda and water is all you need to put acid reflux aside.
Sodium bicarbonate precautions.
- Although baking soda is a great home treatment for acid reflux, it is important not to overdo it.
- Do not exceed seven half-teaspoon doses in a 24-hour period (people over 60 should not exceed three half-teaspoons in 24 hours).
- The use of baking soda to treat acid reflux without consulting a doctor is not advised in women who are pregnant.
- If acid reflux is chronic and severe and baking soda mixed with water does not provide relief, see your doctor to discuss your condition. You may have severe esophageal damage from long-term reflux problems, or another underlying cause that cannot be cured with baking soda alone.
- Despite the neutralizing benefits of baking soda, this method is not appropriate for everyone with acid reflux. Since this product contains a form of sodium, it should not be used if you are following a low sodium diet.
- Sodium bicarbonate can interact with other medications and supplements. It is important to discuss this risk with your doctor.