1. A Banana A Day Keeps The Doctor Away
The Vitamin B6 found in bananas can actually help relieve acid reflux. In fact, those who consume more fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from symptoms of acid reflux. In a 2006 study, participants were divided into 2 groups. Group A took a dietary supplement containing vitamins B-6, B-12, B-9 along with L-tryptophan, methionine, betaine and melatonin while Group B consumed the popularly recommended omeprazole. Within 40 days, all acid reflux symptoms disappeared in Group A, thus pointing to a 100% success.
2. Slightly Elevate Your Head And Shoulders When You Sleep
Slightly elevating your head and shoulders when you sleep can also relieve acid reflux at night due to the effect of gravity. Stack pillows in an inclined plane, raising the head of the bed by six inches as per the diagram here. Raising your head and shoulders allows gravity to keep the acid from moving up the esophagus, thereby decreasing chances of heartburn. The beneficial effect of gravity is proven by research.
3. Sleep On The Left Side
If getting proper pillows and mattresses is a bit difficult for you or you share your bed with someone, then tip 2 might not be feasible. In that case, simply remember to sleep on your left side when you kick off your shoes and lie in the bed. As per a study published in The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, sleeping on your left helps as your stomach is located on the left side. Again, due to gravity, you’ll feel better with your stomach as the stomach acid would less likely move up the esophagus.
4. Opt For Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a bland and low-fat food that is absolutely great for the stomach. It doesn’t contain some magic nutrient that cures an upset stomach, but it’s very easy to digest. If you’re stuck in bed, then oatmeal is a safe bet to ease the stomach. As per the guidelines from the The American College of Gastroenterology, you should eliminate foods that tax the system so, unless you have a non-tolerance issue with oatmeal, as a high fiber food, it may help curb your symptoms.
5. Drink More Water
We all know that the ideal water intake is 8 to 10 glasses, yet how many of us actually count the number of glasses we drink? If you’re suffering from stomach upset, drinking a few cups of water can alleviate the heartburn as this will wash away the stomach acids. However, for severe cases, water may provide only a temporary relief. In fact, while you’re at it, it’s best to have slightly alkaline water. According to a study, pH 8.8 alkaline water exceeds the hydrochloric acid-buffering power and inactivates human pepsin (in vitro) and thus provides therapeutic benefits for the patient.
6. Use Soda Crackers
Soda crackers can also alleviate heartburn and stomach aches as they help neutralize the excess acid in the system. Unlike water that only washes the acid back to the stomach, soda crackers actually absorb the acid, thereby alleviating stomach trouble. Here’s a simple heartburn reliever recipe you can use: Take half a teaspoon of baking sugar and add it into a full glass of drinking water. Mix well and drink it up. The reason why baking soda works so well is because it acts as an antacid. However if you’re on a low sodium diet, it is best to avoid this trick and consult a medical professional. These tricks are pretty easy and can be incorporated into your daily life.In addition to following these tips, do try to lead an active and healthy lifestyle as it goes a long way to keeping stomach problems at bay. And don’t forget to share these health hacks with your friends!
