6 Best Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux, GERD, and LPR
Acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), can significantly impact daily life with symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, throat irritation, and persistent cough. While medications like PPIs and H2 blockers are often prescribed, many people seek natural solutions to alleviate symptoms and address root causes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best natural options to manage acid reflux symptoms. These include herbal remedies, functional foods, and safe, effective products that support digestive health and symptom relief. Be sure to consult a healthcare provider before trying any new remedy, especially if you’re taking other medications.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, often due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This backflow can lead to discomfort and inflammation, causing symptoms like:
Heartburn
Chest pain
Regurgitation
Sore throat
Persistent cough
Feeling like something is stuck in the throat (globus sensation)
Hoarseness or voice changes
Chronic throat clearing
While medications can control symptoms, natural remedies offer additional ways to support digestion and reduce acid reflux episodes.
Top Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux
1. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to soothe digestive discomfort. It contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that coats the esophagus and stomach lining, providing a protective barrier against stomach acid.
Benefits:
Soothes inflammation and irritation caused by acid reflux.
Promotes healing of the esophageal lining.
How to Use:
Available as pills, powders, or teas.
Slippery elm tea is a comforting option for soothing symptoms.
2. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
DGL is a form of licorice root that has the glycyrrhizin compound removed to avoid side effects like elevated blood pressure. It promotes mucus production in the stomach, which can help shield the lining from acid damage.
Benefits:
Explore a variety of reflux-relief products through the links below!
Reduces inflammation in the esophagus.
Supports healing of irritated tissues.
How to Use:
Commonly available as chewable tablets.
Take as directed by your healthcare provider.
3. Probiotics
A balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall digestive health. Probiotics can help restore beneficial bacteria, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion, which may alleviate acid reflux symptoms. They are particularly beneficial for individuals whose reflux stems from antibiotic use or food poisoning.
Benefits:
Supports gut health by restoring microbial balance.
Reduces inflammation and improves digestion.
How to Use:
Incorporate probiotic foods like Greek yogurt, tempeh, or miso.
Be cautious with other probiotic foods such as kombucha and sauerkraut. These can often contain either gas, or caffeine, and be spicy or acidic, which often exacerbate reflux.
Here are two recommended brands:
4. Ginger
Ginger is widely used to alleviate nausea, indigestion, and bloating. It is also a natural prokinetic, meaning it helps improve motility and supports healthy digestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
Benefits:
Provides anti-inflammatory support to the esophagus.
Improves motility; Aids digestion
How to Use:
Consume fresh ginger, ginger tea, or supplements.
Start with small amounts and adjust as needed.
5. Alginates (RefluxRaft)
Alginates, derived from brown seaweed, form a gel-like raft in the stomach. This raft acts as a barrier, preventing stomach acid from rising into the esophagus and providing immediate relief for reflux symptoms.
Benefits:
Provides rapid symptom relief by creating a physical barrier.
Safe for long-term use and can complement other treatments.
How to Use:
RefluxRaft is a great option with different flavors, including one designed for nighttime use.
For those outside the U.S., Gaviscon Advance Aniseed is a recommended alternative.
6. Alkaline Solutions: Water and Foods
Alkaline water and alkaline-forming foods can help neutralize acid and create a more balanced pH environment in the digestive system, offering relief from acid reflux symptoms.
Alkaline Water: This type of water has a higher pH than regular tap water and may help neutralize pepsin in the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation.
Alkaline Foods: Adding alkaline-forming foods to your diet can provide long-term relief. Examples include:
Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
Cucumbers
Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew)
Bananas
Sweet potatoes
Almonds
Lifestyle Tips for Acid Reflux Relief
In addition to natural remedies, adopting healthy habits can help manage acid reflux:
Adjust Your Diet: Avoid trigger foods and focus on reflux-friendly options like oatmeal, bananas, and lean proteins.
Mind Meal Timing: Eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid lying down for at least two-three hours after eating.
Reduce Stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to manage stress, which can worsen symptoms.
Elevate Your Head: Use a wedge pillow or elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
Conclusion
Natural remedies like slippery elm, DGL, probiotics, ginger, and alginates offer effective ways to manage acid reflux symptoms. Alkaline solutions can further complement these efforts. These remedies work best when paired with tailored treatment plans and professional guidance.
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting new remedies to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your specific needs. For more guidance on managing acid reflux naturally, Watch the video: Natural Supplements for Acid Reflux
By incorporating these natural remedies and tips into your routine, you can take steps toward managing acid reflux and improving your overall digestive health.
Looking for support from a GERD/LPR Nutrition Specialist?
Our team is here to guide you at every step of your journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking for more advanced support, we’re ready to help. Apply for a 1:1 session to receive a personalized plan that addresses your symptoms, medical history, and underlying causes with tailored nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations.
Don’t forget to explore our FLORA App for additional resources, tools, and support to enhance your wellness journey!
Written by Molly Pelletier, MS, RD, LDN | Molly Pelletier is a Registered Dietitian specializing in acid reflux/GERD/LPR/IBS and a leading voice in nutrition for acid reflux. Molly's background in nutrition science and her personal health journey with GERD culminated in the curation of FLORA Nutrition, where she shares evidence-based tools and strategies to help others recover from reflux and optimize their overall well-being. Follow Molly on Social Media @mollypelletier.rd on all platforms
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Blog co-created with FLORA Team Member & BS Nutrition, Marián Carzó
