What is an Acid Reflux?

It is a common digestive disorder also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) [1]. It is associated with a number of symptoms including heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, gastric burning, etc. Antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed medicines for GERD. Dietary and lifestyle changes are also a part of the treatment plan. Apart from medications, different supplements can also be used for the treatment of acid reflux.

 

Supplements for Acid Reflux:

Here is a list of the supplements that can help treat acid reflux disease:

• Vitamin B complex: this group of vitamins includes riboflavin, vitamin B6, and folate active against acid reflux. As per research, increased vitamin B intake is associated with decreased risk of developing reflux esophagitis [2]. Long-term complications of GERD can also be prevented by increasing multivitamin intake. Vitamin B supplements should be paired with other medicines to treat acid reflux more effectively and efficiently.
• Iberogast: it is a common supplement used worldwide for the treatment of both acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This supplement is a mixture of natural extracts including licorice root, milk thistle fruit, and peppermint. Iberogast is well tolerated and proven to relieve the symptoms of acid reflux including loss of appetite, heartburn, nausea, and upper abdominal pain.
• Ginger: ginger root is widely used as a spice as well as a herbal supplement. It is administered as ginger tea to relieve indigestion and nausea. It has long been used globally for the treatment of different digestive tract related issues. Ginger increases stomach emptying; hence, improves acid reflux as slowed digestion is one of its causes [3]. When used in combination with other natural supplements, ginger shows better results.
• Melatonin: it is a sleep hormone secreted by the pineal gland in our body. it regulates our sleep-wake cycle. When used as a natural supplement, melatonin not only improves sleep quality but also aids in treating acid reflux. It also protects against the long-term damaging effects of GERD.
• Probiotics: gut health is supported by a huge number of good stomach friendly bacteria known as probiotics. They are important for both immunity and gut health [4]. Using probiotics aids in treating acid reflux disease. When taken alongside other drugs, the results are even better. Probiotics are also known to improve the gut flora damaged by the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Also, probiotics reduce the relapse rate for the disease.
• Betaine hydrochloride (HCl): it is a compound used in combination with pepsin to increase stomach acid production. Low stomach acid slows down the digestion process leading to most of the symptoms associated with acid reflux disease [5]. By increasing stomach acid production, this supplement increases digestion rate allowing rapid stomach emptying. This reduces symptoms of GERD such as upper stomach pain, gastric burning, nausea, etc.

 

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140167/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24132576/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3016669/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5031164/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537005/

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