The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Apples
Posted by Tomm S (Indpls, IN) on 10/05/2005
★★★★★
I stumbled onto your site thru a lot of searching for relief because I've come to believe that there isn't a cure for Acid Reflux! I'm yet to try the ACV thing but for now I will stand on my aide. A simple slice from an apple. Any color. I've noticed that the vinegar suggested here also is to be "Apple." Try it and I guarantee that you will be amazed.
Lemons
Posted by Ed (Hillsboro, NC)
★★★★★
I stumbled upon a consistent treatment for recurrent reflux a year ago when I experienced my first kidney stone attack. My urologist recommended I drink lemonade to prevent future stone development. Well, a wonderful secondary result has been that I no longer experience reflux attacks, which were common in the evening after bedtime - especially when I had eaten later at night. I now tell anyone who will listen what a difference lemonade can make in a life. Apparently (you chemists will know more about this), the body reacts to the citric acid in lemonade to produce an increased alkaline reaction, which sounds paradoxical. I drink lemonade with my meals at home and buy bottled lemonade at convenience stores instead of carbonated drinks when I travel.
Lemons
Posted by Joyce (Joelton, Tn) on 01/12/2009 490 posts
To Joan from Pawtucket:
Beware of any sugarfree lemonade, especially if it is sweetened with artificial sweetener like nutrasweet, Equal or aspartame, you will most likely get side effect problems you don't want.You should be safe with sugarfree lemonade if you make your own and sweeten it with stevia.
Lemons
Posted by Kristina (Seattle, Wa Usa) on 06/22/2011
★★★★★
My 6 yo was dealing with acid reflux after having an extended vomiting episode with the flu. Nothing was helping it and I felt so bad for her. It hurt each time she ate anything. I came on here to find something to help. Lemonade seemed like the easiest thing to give her so we tried it and it worked, right away! After a few days it subsided completely, but I still keep lemonade around in case. I used an organic lemonade.
Soy Milk
Posted by veggie girl (Berkeley, California) on 03/01/2024
★★★★★
A glass of plain, unsweetened soy milk in the evening always seems to calm any acid reflux for me. (nothing else added, just organic soybeans and water) I drink it cold usually, but warm is good too.
Hot Peppers
Posted by Tami (Burns, OR)
★★★★★
Cayenne pepper capsules and hot (tea hot) water. i take 2-4 of the capsule, 450mg each with the hot water, and the heartburn literally disappears. i had my friend try it who has been on aciphex for over 2 years, and she is now medication free!!
Yogurt
Posted by Coreen (Bklyn, NY)
★★★★★
Plain yogurt (not flavors) also heals acid reflux it tightens the walls around the stomach area.
Yogurt
Posted by Calvin (Atlanta, GA)
★★★★★
I had been suffering with Acid Reflux for 3 weeks until a person told me that i should try yogurt. I tried yogurt for 3 days, and i already notice a change. Yogurt has helpful bacteria cultures that aid in strengthening your immune system which all boils down to your GI tract. Now, my acid reflux is nearly all gone. I still have the symptoms, but day by day, they ease away thanks to the yogurt.
Yogurt
Posted by Diane (Centennial, CO)
★★★★★
I also was on several medications for arthritis, such as Advil, Naproxen, and Bextra and developed heart burn, painful bloating and gas. I began an otc called Digestive Advantage in with a daily serving of yogurt in a smoothie. My symptoms have greatly reduced and my system regulated. Well worth a daily serving.
Yogurt
Posted by Ali (Portland, Oregon) on 10/29/2008
I suffer from severe acid reflux. I've tried yogurt - to no avail. You mentioned taking Advil, Naproxen, and Bextra for pain. Please be aware these types of OTC meds can, over time, weaken your lower esophageal sphincter (LES) valve which will then allow acid to enter your unprotected esophagus. The list of these OTC drugs is long. Aleve and Naproxen are just 2 of very common OTC drugs that can and do cause permanent weakening of the LES. Most doctors will not tell you this unless you look them straight in the eye and ask them. Here's the scoop: The lower esophagus has a mucus coating which contains a natural acid neutralizer that protects the lower esophagus from small amounts of acid that may from time to time leak through the LES valve. Aleve, Naproxen and a number of other OTC drugs prevent that protective mucus from forming, thereby allowing acid to burn the esophagus. Repeated burning can lead to Barrett's Esophagus which can lead to cancer. Esophagus cancer is now the #2 cancer in the United States. Which brings me back to Acid Reflux: It is vary dangerous and not to be taken lightly. Thanks goodness for this website and for those who use it in an effort to cure themselves and help others.
Raise the Bed
Posted by Jon (Concord, NH)
★★★★★
Elevating the head of the bed 2" (use 2 pieces scrap 2"x6' board to elevate head of bed) cures acid reflux when you awaken in the morning. Doesn't work all day but its good for a nice part of the morning when you first wake up.
Sauerkraut
Posted by Ella (France) on 12/08/2023
I followed the links you share and most conclude that"
"The relevance and potential of fermented foods and beverages, with contrasting and inconclusive results" or that Saukraut" or " Although sauerkraut has a variety of claimed beneficial health effects, they need to be interpreted with caution as it can also cause some unwanted or even allergic reactions, i"
I cannot read the last two.
Nonetheless, I have found this quote: "The studies found that sauerkraut induced inflammation locally, but repeated intake may result in diarrhea... unwanted effects such as intolerance reactions must be considered when dealing with sauerkraut as a functional food." from this article.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4268643/#:~:text=The studies found that sauerkraut, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
So, I would proceed with caution as this remedy may cause adverse reaction for some...
Acidophilus
Posted by Mary Anne Haskins (Northern IL) on 04/24/2024
Looking to get the amounts of fennel, raisins, and water for this recipe please. Thank you.
Mastic Gum
Posted by Cl (Morrow, Ca) on 02/06/2012
I have been dealing with acid reflux, acid indigestion and gastritis on and off for years. GI docs put me on Prilosec then Prevacid after scopies where they saw erosion and hiatial hernia. The Prevacid gave me a life threatening intestinal infection of C. Difficile. Mainstream medicine knows little of this and thinks you only get it from antibiotics. After a year of recovery from the c. diff (and loss of 45 lbs in six weeks) my acid reflex and terrible acid burning came back.
H.pylori is a very common intestinal bacterium that most docs overlook as well. The antibiotic treatment is terrible and many do not kick it with this and become sicker. The tests (stool, breath) for h. pylori are unreliable.
I am now treating acid reflux and for h. pylori naturally with Mastic (sometimes called Mastic gum).
Also taking digestive enzymes (Digest by Transformation) before meals and made major nutritional changes to get PH balanced. You can buy the little strips to test urine PH at health food store. This is essential.
Seeing an excellent licensed naturopathic doctor has helped me enormously with this. There is so much more to tell but not enough time or room.
Please do not believe the mainstream line on this and avoid PPI's, OTC antacids, prescriptions, etc!!!!! These things exacerbate the problem.
Two good websites are: Weston Price foundation and Cure zone for more info.
Be and get well naturally!
Mastic Gum
Posted by Mary (Arcadia, Ca) on 05/15/2015 51 posts
I started to take Mastic Gum after having an episode of vomiting for 3 days straight couldn't even keep down water. After it stopped I developed very bad Panic Attacks. I went to see my natural doctor and she said, "we better give you something to help heal your stomach issues first" I was told to take Mastic Gum.
It affected me badly by raising my blood pressure to 188/113. It wasn't great before that but never that high. I started to take Oregano oil lets see what happens to me next. I will keep you posted thank you. Mary
Low Carb Diet, Hcl
Posted by Ck (Cincinnati, Oh Usa) on 05/06/2011
I have been getting some relief by combing a controlled carbs diet with HCL and other digestive enzymes. I have learned a lot from the following site and would urge all to visit and read the extensive information presented. He does not sell digestive products or aides.
http://thehealthyskeptic.org/heartburn
I appreciate all who have posted their ideas here and I wanted to share this information as it is helping me.
Licorice
Posted by Joyce (Joelton, Tn) on 04/18/2009 490 posts
To Denise from Huddersfield, UK:
Hello Denise, to answer your question "why drink acid to relieve an acid stomach problem" I will borrow some information gleaned from an alternative MD named Jonathan Wright. According to Dr. Wright the problem is not too much but too little hydrochloric acid, and if this is true then drinking an acid should relieve it and from most of the correspondence from those who have tried it, I have to side with Dr. Wright as to the cause.
However I got rid of the acid, along with the bloat, constipation, flatulence, and outright peptic ulcer flare ups 4 or 5 times per year, when I stumbled on the fact that spicy foods were not the problem, but anything made with bleached flour always brought on the misery. At first I wondered about the gluten in wheat causing it, but when I started eating bread again I found that whole grain products caused no problems, but bleached flour did, a few other things like any acid foods (tomatoes, citrus juices, etc) from a memtal can brings on the acid regurg misery. As long as I stay away from the above, life is a whole lot more enjoyable and has worked for me for the last 40 years or so. I don't know what they use in the bleaching process that causes the problem, but I do know that eliminating bleached flour eliminates the problem, and without ever being treated for the bug that modern day orthodox medicine says causes peptic ulcer disease.
By the way, don't expect your doctor to be overjoyed to hear that a patient has found a way to relieve the problem without his help, because doctors don't like patients who think they are smarter than he/she is and also don't like the prospects of his income decreasing because you no longer will be visiting for your former chronic complaint.
Another thing to think about, do check your blood pressure periodically because licorice candy is said to elevate blood pressure in those who eat a lot of it, and if it does then licorice root might do the same.
Licorice
Posted by Mike R (Houston, Tx) on 09/15/2011
I have tried many remedies for GERD and have researched licorice root as a cure. The catch is that normal licorice or candies also contain high levels of glycerin and sodium which will most certainly also cause or risk a higher incidence of blood pressure issues.
HOWEVER, GNC sells an extract pill form of licorice without these ingredients, it is called "De-Glycerinated Licorice" or "DGL", food supplement. IT WORKS! It will repair the esophagus and correct the GERD in a few days. It can be taken in small doses pretty much forever with no side effects. If you are so inclined, licorice flavored liquors (Anisette, Ouzo) also work in a similar way as a digestive aid after a meal, but take in small doses for obvious reasons!
This can be combined with any other methods, but as always, best to avoid or limit the spicy, fatty foods. I have also found that a high protien diet and low carbs works for me in the same way. Best of luck!
Licorice
Posted by Frank R (Anytown, USA) on 04/05/2008
★★★★★
I developed acid reflux and ulcers due to stress in my job. I did not read anyone having stress induced acid reflux. This developed in 1986 and I still have it.
I have taken tagament to Prilosec with varying degrees of result. When I took Prilosec I was told it was only for 30 days and then never again. That was in 1997 and of course that was not true.
The worse thing is when contents of my stomach decide to go up my throat and into my lungs when I am sleeping. It does not matter what I eat, how much, or when I still get these scary episodes.
I have not tried vinegar for this but use it for hiccups. I figure it shocks the system. When I know my stomach is going to be a problem I eat saltine crackers (baking sode is in them), eat yogurt, and drink lots of water. Sometimes it really helps, sometimes it only minimizes the discomfort, or I wait until my digestive system has moved along any food.
One thing I have learned is to try avoiding drugs if you can and that each person really is an individual which inclues our bological systems.
Having lived in Europe a lot of my life I found black licorice made in Germany helps my acid reflux too. It is not like what is found in the United States. Moms often give it to kids with stomach aches. I happen to like and have my German friends mail it to me.
Has anyone else ever used black licorice for acid reflux? It is a natural drug free treatment.
I wish good health to everyone.
Licorice
Posted by Patricia (Ottawa, Canada) on 04/11/2008
Love this site! Thanks to Frank R. for the tip about black licorice - have a German Deli that sells it - assume you mean unsalted? Have a friend just moved here from Australia who told me that they commonly recommend sucking on "natural glucose" lolli-pops for reflux.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Gracie (Flushing, New York, USA) on 02/01/2013
What kinds of supplements did you take to get rid of the fungus? Did you take any supplements to help your overall condition?
PS: I hope you recover from your current health issue, soon.
Liver Cleanse, ACV and Baking Soda
Posted by Amy (Merrit Island, FL) on 10/31/2007
★★★★★
I did Dr Clark's liver cleanse, not only cured my acid reflux but cured my diabetes 2, my bursitis. I have completed 4 liver cleanses and still getting better with each one. after years of aliments and sickness I am getting well. also I am loosing weight. I have started a veggie diet and I wanted to boost my PH levels for pain and well being. I tried juicing but could only get my levels to 7.5.. the Apple Vinegar and baking soda got my levels where I want them 8.7. thank you no pharma crap!
Liver Cleanse, ACV and Baking Soda
Posted by Veronica (California) on 12/31/2020
Hi Amy.
Can you clarify which Dr. Clark's cleanses you are referring to here? Thanks.
EC: Hi Veronica,
Amy's post is from 2007, so it is unlikely she will see it at this point. Sorry!
Dietary Changes
Posted by Anarkali (Dallas, USA) on 10/03/2007
★★★★★
I developed a strong acid reflux after moving to TX. I could not understand and underwent tests for ulcer and stuff. My doctor then said I have strong acid reflux due to first job and associated stress. Wrong ! I was not stressed, I was happier than ever and not under performance pressure either. He gave me free Prevacid and when my condition was the same prescribed some dangerous looking 220 pills to eat 4 a day. I started researching my problem, web hunting, experimenting with my diet and could get back to absolute normal by completely avoiding milk, Cheese, excessive rice or lentils and eating a high fiber (wheat/bread) diet. Not being able to drink milk is not good, so now I drink lactose free milk. Although even a single mistake can upset my stomach, I am living medication free.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Lynn (Waterville, Maine) on 08/15/2007
★★★★★
I was diagnosed at 16 with acid reflux. I went years not knowing what caused it for me, when I was in my thirty's I was diagnosed with H pylori and found out that was only part of my problem. I stopped eating acidic foods for awhile it helped then I done away with pepper. Went to another doctor and he said your problem is not enough water. I was acidic, body needs to be more alkaline. I then stopped drinking with meals and not eating after 7P.M. thats when I started feeling better. I use to feel bloated after eating, acid in my throat when I lay down and now I don't have that unless I drink with meals or eat after 7P.M. Now I purchase ph level tape at health food store to keep track of my level. Keeping it at a safe level.
Licorice
Posted by Sandi (La Mesa, CA) on 12/30/2006
★★★★★
DGL (licorice supplements) Important to use dgl and not just licorice, which can raise blood pressure. Cured my acid reflux. Immediately got rid of acid reflux symptoms with the first tablet. Still working pretty well, but it seems to also be important to discover food sensitivities for ongoing cure. It's ongoing use of 800 milogram ibuprofen contributed to acid reflux.
Blended Raw Potato
Posted by Wydo (Ventura, Ca, United States) on 03/02/2016
I have a great respect for Ted and his opinions that he posts. After all they influenced what I took while having stage 4 lung cancer and now I am free of it. On the subject of progesterone, I don't think he had the opportunity to review the latest research on the use of progesterone on cancer. Researchers have found that there are 2 genes that are affected by progesterone. One is the BCL2 gene and the other is the P53 gene. Research has shown that natural progesterone affects one of these genes and synthetic progesterone affects the other and shows that there is a difference between the two. The BCL2 gene helps the cancer and the P53 gene shuts down the cancer. Here is an article that covers this; Https://progesterone.com/disease-index/cancer/breast-cancer/ I have also read elsewhere that vitamin D3 works with the natural progesterone to make it more effective. After reading the above article, the question comes to my mind, what creams have the natural progesterone that will promote the P53 gene. There are lots of these creams out there. All that you have to do is go to amazon.com and do a search for progesterone cream and you will see lots of them and they all say they have natural progesterone in them but which ones actually works? I have a friend that is afflicted with breast-cancer and I would like to know what will work for here. If anyone knows out there please let me know. I believe that a good strategy to make the breast-cancer go away would include progesterone cream. I would be grateful to anyone for a replay. Thank you
Blended Raw Potato
Posted by Tracy (Denver, CO) on 07/11/2023
Apparently, all the “natural” yam creams in the US have some sort of synthetic progesterone in them. (This isn't my area of expertise so please be kind if I am not explaining that quite correctly.) It seems that Anna's Wild Cream (from Australia) is the only one you're currently (2023) going to find that's legit pure and natural. Also, I guess the word has gotten out about this product because they've recently seen their orders skyrocket to the point that they won't have new inventory until the end of August. This is frustrating, but presumably they'll get it all figured out soon. Good luck to you all!
Blended Raw Potato
Posted by Cl503 (Portland) on 03/03/2016
I use Now progesertone cream to balance my hormones and I can see a difference and my hormone blood levels normalized so I believe this product works. I have it on subscription so I am never without it!
Mangosteen Juice
Posted by Ray (East Nortport) on 05/05/2006
★★★★★
After an great dinner and two apple pie and vanilla ice cream I went to bed. I woke up at 1 AM with some moderate heartburn. I drank 1 oz. of Mangosteen Juice and by 1:15 I was able to lay down without any pain. It worked better than Alkaseltzer.