- Acid reflux is also known as GERD. GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It causes a burning sensation (heartburn) in the throat when gastric acid juices are pushed back up into the esophagus. Infrequent heartburn is normal, particularly after eating spicy foods or highly acidic substances such as coffee. However, when heartburn becomes chronic, it can cause damage to the esophagus and teeth due to the excess presence of acid. Acid reflux is more common in people over 40, pregnant women and those who are overweight.
- Drink a glass or water or milk or any nonacidic beverage, to rinse acid from the throat. Chewing gum can also help you wash excess acid from the esophagus because salivation increases as you chew gum. It also soothes and coats the esophagus with your saliva, protecting it from acid.
- Baking soda neutralizes acid. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in enough water to make it drinkable. The water should be a bit warm so the baking soda can dissolve. It might help to hold your nose as you drink it because it is not pleasant. Repeat whenever you feel the effects of acid reflux.
- Eating too much of the wrong kind of food can cause acid reflux symptoms. There are a few foods, however, that can provide relief for GERD sufferers due to their ability to neutralize the acid in the esophagus. Apples (you can also try apple cider vinegar) and potatoes are two foods that help some people with heartburn. Eat an apple or raw potato slices whenever you feel heartburn. Make one apple or a few slices of raw potato the last thing you eat each night if acid reflux keeps you awake at night. Don't eat within three hours of bedtime to avoid heartburn during the night.
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