Best natural supplement for acid reflux
By Dr.HMT
Are you tired of the constant discomfort and pain caused by acid reflux? If so, you’re not alone. Acid reflux affects millions of people worldwide, and finding relief can be a daunting task. While there are numerous medications available to treat this condition, many individuals are turning to natural supplements as a safer alternative.
This article will explore the best natural supplements for acid reflux and how they can effectively reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes.
So, let’s discover the power of natural supplements and regain control of your digestive health today!
8 Best Natural Supplements For Acid Reflux
🌱 Betaine HCl with pepsin
Acid suppressants like proton pump inhibitors are now commonly overprescribed to treat chronic symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. This can result in a condition called hypochlorhydria, or low stomach acid. Low levels of stomach acid can slow digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to gas, bloating, and burning pain.
The good news is that it’s easy to correct your stomach acidity with betaine HCL.
Betaine HCL is a synthesized form that combines betaine, which acts like a vitamin, with HCL. It is usually paired with pepsin which is an important digestive enzyme.
One study found that taking pepsin combined with amino acid hydrochloride for 6 weeks significantly reduced symptoms like stomach pain and heartburn.
🌱 Melatonin
Melatonin is a sleep hormone, naturally produced from the pineal gland in the brain to control sleep-wake cycles. It is commonly used to treat insomnia, but melatonin also has inhibitory activities on gastric acid secretion and can be used to treat acid reflux.
According to one study, melatonin is an effective line of treatment in relieving symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
In another study with 351 subjects, melatonin (combined with amino acids and vitamins) is better than omeprazole alone in the regression of GERD symptoms.
🌱 Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Licorice root has been utilized as a remedy for acid reflux for a considerable time. However, it contains glycyrrhetinic acid, which can escalate blood pressure levels.
To counteract this issue, “deglycyrrhizinated licorice” (DGL) has been developed by eliminating “glycyrrhizin”. This modification ensures that DGL is safer for prolonged consumption and minimizes any potential interactions with other medications.
Studies have demonstrated that DGL increases mucus secretion within the digestive system. The increased mucus acts as a protective barrier for both the stomach and esophagus. It not only facilitates the healing of damaged tissues but also protects against future episodes of acid reflux.
Remarkably, one study even concluded that DGL exhibited comparable effectiveness to commonly prescribed acid-suppressive drugs utilized in treating acid reflux disease.
🌱 Vitamins
Are you aware that essential micronutrients such as vitamins can play a significant role in alleviating the symptoms of acid reflux? Certain vitamins, including B vitamins, vitamin A, C, D, and E can effectively decrease your susceptibility to acid reflux.
According to a study, an increased consumption of B vitamins has been associated with a reduced risk of reflux esophagitis – an inflammatory condition in the esophagus frequently triggered by acid reflux.
Adequate levels of vitamin D have also proven beneficial to decrease your chances of experiencing acid reflux symptoms. Moreover, another study revealed that antioxidant vitamins A, C and E may serve to protect against GERD and its associated complications.
🌱 Magnesium
Magnesium is a powerful natural mineral that can aid those suffering from acid reflux.
As an all-natural tranquilizer, magnesium reduces spasm of the lower esophageal sphincter and prevents the release of acid into the esophagus. Another mechanism by which magnesium helps relieve acid reflux is by neutralizing stomach acidity.
That’s why you can see magnesium as an ingredient in many treatments for acid reflux such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors.
What’s more, a healthy heart , strong bones, good sleep and calm nerves are a bonus.
🌱 Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the immune system, wound healing, and many other bodily functions.
In 2011, researchers in Switzerland discovered that zinc could effectively inhibit gastric acid secretion in humans.
By regulation of gastric acid secretion, and reducing inflammation, zinc can help alleviate the frequency and severity of acid reflux.
🌱 Ginger
Ginger root has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that could reduce irritation in the esophagus and stomach caused by acid reflux.
A 2011 study found that participants who took ginger supplements showed reduced levels of inflammation within one month.
Moreover, phenolic compounds in ginger lessen stomach contractions and reduce the likelihood of stomach acid flowing up into the esophagus.
However, it is crucial to take only small doses, otherwise it will cause additional heartburn.
🌱 Papaya enzymes
Papaya contains papain, a natural digestive enzyme that can help you better digest food and absorb the nutrients from that food.
When you have indigestion and your stomach is distended from gas and bloating, the acidic stomach contents are more likely to travel upward, causing acid reflux.
The digestive enzymes abundant in papaya may decrease acid reflux symptoms by lessening the body’s digestive workload.
Consider Your Overall Lifestyle for Long-term Management of Acid Reflux
- Eliminate triggering food and drinks such as fatty meal, spicy foods, chocolate, alcohol, tea, and coffee
- Stop smoking
- Reduce pressure on your stomach by maintaining a healthy weight, eating smaller meals, and wearing loose-fitting clothes.
- Avoid lying down within 3 hrs of eating. Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches to reduce night reflux symptoms.
- Take daily probiotics to help decrease symptoms of acid reflux.
The bottom line
Numerous natural remedies possess the potential to alleviate acid reflux.
Notably, supplements such as betaine HCl with pepsin, DGL, vitamins, melatonin, magnesium, zinc, papaya enzymes, and ginger have exhibited efficacy in alleviating the symptoms associated with acid reflux.
And as for the question “Which acid reflux supplement might be the best fit for you”, my answer is “it depends on you and your condition”. Therefore, it would be best to consult with your healthcare provider for optimal outcomes.