One of the oldest remedies for acid reflux is using baking soda. The thought of using baking soda for acid reflux may turn many people off and that's understandable considering it's used for many other applications.
The simple fact is, used correctly, it can help neutralize the bane of heartburn and acid reflux in acid.
How Does Baking Soda Work?
In a nutshell, baking soda neutralizes the excessive acid within the stomach. Acid rises up through the esophagus presenting a very uncomfortable feeling to those who experience it. Chronic sufferers especially can literally spend days feeling the ill effects of an attack.
Sodium bicarbonate goes to work in the stomach to regulate the flow of acid and neutralize it. It's a very simple method and the truth is, many will pass it over as a serious relief method simply because baking soda is such a common item in most people's homes.
How Much Should You Use?
You've still got to be careful when using baking soda for acid reflux. Too much and you will be asking for trouble. Your doctor should be consulted initially. The general rule of thumb is about a half a teaspoon to a teaspoon of baking soda to 1-3 ounces of water.
Just stir or swirl the mixture around so it dissolves and swallow it. You may need to wait for several minutes but what you're looking for is that welcoming belch which feels like a ton of pressure has just been released. (Might be a good idea to use it when no one else is around).
Belching after consuming baking soda for acid reflux is a good sign and it's just gas being released following the neutralization of the stomach acid. It may not be pretty but to someone suffering constant attacks, it's one of the greatest sounds in the world!
Using baking soda for acid reflux should only be seen as a temporary measure if you are a chronic sufferer. Your doctor is still your best go to person because if your condition is chronic and you're banking on temporary relief methods all the time, then you are just treating the symptom and not the problem.
