Gastroesophageal reflux disease is known as gerd. When the gastric acid and the liquid food in the stomach go upwards in the esophagus it is known as gerd. The esophagus is part of the digestive tube which carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The lower end of the esophagus is a band of muscles that opens and closes like a valve between the esophagus and stomach.
When this valve does not close properly the stomach contents tend to leak back or reflux into the esophagus. Reflux defines the reverse movement from the stomach, upwards to the esophagus. The acidic fluid that is thrown back is called acid reflux and it causes a burning sensation in the throat as well as the chest.
If neglected for long, it can lead to inflammation and erosion of the esophagus lining. Unhealthy food, stress, lots of spices, alcohol and smoking are some of the reasons for gerd. Simple home measures are the best to treat gerd.
Ways to Cure Gerd
Eat Foods Rich in Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are naturally occurring chemicals that break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats which are present in the food we eat. They are most essential for digestion. Our body produces these enzymes but they may not be in sufficient quantities. A shortage of these enzymes leads to acid reflux.
Fruits and vegetables are rich in these enzymes but they are mostly destroyed when cooked so it is good to eat raw vegetables and fruits as much as possible. Nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashew nuts and fruits like papaya pineapple and apples are very good sources of digestive enzymes.
Anise Tea
Anise seeds are rich in chemical compounds that are advantageous to good health. Its antioxidant properties prevent diseases. By virtue of its carminative and digestive properties, it considerably reduces the acid formed in the stomach.
Take one glass of water in a pan. Put it to boil. Add two teaspoons of anise seeds to it. Boil for a few minutes. Strain but do not throw away the seeds. Mix a teaspoon of honey or sugar and sip the tea slowly. For better effect, have this tea three times daily. You can chew a few of the seeds after meals.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is a natural antacid. The main constituent of the root is glycyrrhizin that contains strong antioxidants which help to break down the food in the stomach and ease digestion. It lines the stomach with a protective gel. Cut the root into small pieces. Take a piece in your mouth and gently crush it with your teeth. Let the juice trickle down your throat gradually and slowly. Keep the quid of the root in your mouth for as long as possible.
Relief with Baking Soda
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is alkaline in nature and has many medicinal values. Take a teaspoon of baking soda. Add it to a glass of water and drink it quickly before the fizz fizzles away.
Ginger
Include fresh ginger as much as possible in your diet. It is antibacterial and stimulates the pancreas in producing digestive enzymes and helps in the absorption of food. You can prepare ginger tea by adding one teaspoon of pounded ginger to the boiling water to which tea leaves have been added.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.