Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that causes stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus or the food pipe that transfers the food from the mouth to the stomach. The acid in the esophagus causes inflammation, often felt like heartburn. Acid reflux is quite common, usually caused because of overeating or eating particular foods items. Recurring acid reflux is diagnosed as GERD can affect anyone, at any age and should be treated at the earliest or it can lead to serious complications. It most commonly affects people who are overweight, pregnant, people who smoke or are under medication for a disease like asthma. Heartburn, bad breath, difficulty in swallowing, decay are some symptoms of GERD.

One can use conventional medicines to treat GERD, but there are natural treatment options for acid reflux also which can reduce the instances of acid reflux.

1. Papaya

Papaya is one of the best natural treatments for acid reflux. Papain, an enzyme present in papaya helps improve the digestive system and it also helps the body to digest the food better. Not only does papaya give relief from acid reflux but also provides relief from heartburn, bloating and constipation. One can have papaya in forms of tablet, powder or extract. Chewable papaya tablets should be eaten right after each meal to ease the symptoms of GERD. But should be careful and avoid consuming high doses of papaya as it can irritate the esophagus. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid consumption of papaya as it has not proven to be safe.

2. Aloe Vera

Generally used to soothe burns, aloe vera gel is another natural treatment for acid reflux as it coats the throat and protects the esophagus. Aloe vera juice helps in improving the digestive tract, thus preventing reflux. Many aloe vera juice brands are easily available in the market. If one doesn’t like the taste of aloe vera, capsules are also easily available.

3. Chewing gum

Chewing gum helps in relieving symptoms of GERD fast as it produces extra saliva in the mouth which helps in neutralizing the stomach acid by diluting it and pushing it back to the gut. One can have sugar free gum and chew it for 20-30 minutes to help relief from heartburn.

4. Including leafy vegetables in diet

A natural treatment for acid reflux is adding leafy vegetables in one’s diet because an unbalanced diet also causes GERD. Including greens in diet is important as it keeps the intestinal system clear as obstruction caused in the intestine can lead to acid reflux. Chlorophyll present in greens helps in cleansing and also alkalizes the blood.

5. Ginger

Using ginger as a natural treatment for acid reflux is one of the best remedies as ginger stimulates the digestive enzymes and help in digesting the food. Ginger also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing the effects of acid reflux. It can be consumed raw after peeling or can be added while preparing the food.