Acid reflux or GERD is a burning sensation felt behind the lower portion of the breastbone or just below the ribs in the upper part of the abdomen, sometimes extending upward to the throat and mouth. The discomfort occurs when the acid stomach contents or other digestive juices flow backward into the lower esophagus through the esophageal sphincter. While not related to the heart, at times of severe discomfort or pain the condition is sometimes mistaken for a heart attack. If the problem occurs continually, it causes swelling of the esophageal lining.

At the point where the esophagus joins the stomach, the circular muscle fibers of the esophagus are strengthened to form the sphincter or valve. This valve opens to allow food or drink to enter the stomach, but it also acts to prevent stomach contents from backflowing into the esophagus. Factors, which contribute to backflow, include an inefficient sphincter, obesity, overeating, high fat foods, cigarette smoking, increased pressure in the abdomen due to straining or pregnancy, bending forward soon after eating, lying down soon after a meal, and wearing a tight belt or corset.

Here are some common sense things you can do for acid reflux:

One of the most important things you can do is to counter the factors that contribute to backflow. Avoid overloading the stomach. This requires you to eat a lot less at each meal and refraining from food three hours before bedtime. Reduce the fat in your diet, and give up smoking or chewing. Lose weight if you have to. Elevate the head of your bed by using some form of weights or six-inch blocks under the legs of your bed. Using a nonsodium antacid a half-hour after meals may help. If you do not start to see any improvements after applying all of the above – see a physician.

Your physician may have tests done to demonstrate reflux or the presence of swelling. If medication does not solve the problem, then surgical intervention may be necessary.

Acid Reflux Herbal Remedies

Aloe – Aloe gel helps to protect and heal the delicate lining of the esophagus. It works quickly to stop acid reflux.

Licorice – This is a natural antacid.

Slippery elm – This herb is a very important herbal remedy for GERD, because it heals the mucous membranes that have been injured by acid reflux.

Foods For Acid Reflux

Potato – Potatoes neutralize excess acid and reduce its production; therefore, stopping acid reflux. However, it must be prepared healthfully and without fats. The greatest antacid effect is obtained by the raw potato juice.

Carrot – Carrots contain a high provitamin A content, which normalizes the production of acid juices. This helps avoid the backflow of acid into the esophagus.

Pomegranate – The juice reduces stomach acid and acid reflux. It also reduces the swelling in the stomach.