Teas have a variety of health benefits and can relieve symptoms from many different ailments. Last week, we talked about teas that were best for a sore throat. In this article, we’ll cover which teas are good for acid reflux.
If you suffer from acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you’ve likely tried several remedies to ease your symptoms. Maybe you are just recently starting to have these symptoms. A study found that there may be a hormonal link between perimenopausal and menopausal women and increasing GERD symptoms. In fact, women in this phase of life were 2.9 times more likely to have acid reflux or GERD than premenopausal women.
Antiacid tablets are the most popular product for relief from acid reflux. But if you’re looking for a natural remedy, or want to try something different, then consider one of these herbal teas.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux and GERD are conditions that cause stomach acid to flow into your esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t close completely, allowing stomach acid to escape. Acid reflux and GERD are often used interchangeably, but acid reflux refers to occasional symptoms while GERD is a chronic recurrence of these symptoms. If left untreated, GERD can cause inflammation and damage to your esophagus.
Common symptoms of acid reflux and GERD include heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, dry cough, hoarseness or laryngitis, bad breath, nausea, or vomiting. Other less common symptoms may include bloating or abdominal pain. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms as they could be indicative of a more serious condition such as an ulcer or cancer. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include lifestyle changes such as avoiding certain foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms or taking medications such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors.
Why Tea for Acid Reflux?
Tea is a natural remedy for reducing stomach acid and improving overall gut health. Various types of teas can help soothe your stomach, reduce gas, and act as an anti-inflammatory, which can in turn help alleviate your acid reflux. Teas are also packed with antioxidants and have anti-bacterial properties which can help resolve the underlying stomach issue causing your acid reflux.
Which Teas are Good for Acid Reflux?
Drinking certain types of tea can be effective in managing symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. Herbal teas are the best option for easing these symptoms. They include chamomile, ginger, licorice root, marshmallow root, turmeric, and slippery elm teas. Drinking these teas regularly can reduce both the frequency and severity of your acid reflux symptoms.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is best known for its soothing and calming properties. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce indigestion and stomach upset. The alkaline properties of chamomile tea help you balance your stress levels. Stress is often a trigger for acid reflux and GERD.
Ginger tea
Ginger tea can help reduce symptoms of many gastrointestinal issues, including acid reflux and bloating. Compounds in ginger can reduce the likelihood of stomach acid traveling to the esophagus. This tea can also help with nausea and ease gastric contractions.
Licorice root tea
Licorice root tea is an herbal remedy that has been used since ancient times to treat acid reflux and GERD, as well as reduce pain and inflammation. An active component in licorice root, called glycyrrhizin, increases mucus production which can protect the esophagus from stomach acid. Similar to chamomile tea, it also has properties that help you relax.
Marshmallow root tea
Marshmallow root tea can soothe irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract by forming a protect layer of tissue. It also stimulates the cells responsible for tissue regeneration. The root must be steeped in water for several hours to get its gooey texture.
Turmeric tea
Turmeric tea is a superfood with healing properties. It’s rich in antioxidants and contains the active ingredient curcumin. Consuming turmeric tea can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflex and GERD. It can also protect the stomach from gut damage and ulcers.
Slippery elm tea
Slippery elm has been used for centuries to treat stomach problems. The tea is made from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree. It helps to coat the stomach in a protective layer and aids in producing mucus for further protection against acidity.
Which Teas to Avoid for Acid Reflux and Digestion
If you suffer from acid reflux or GERD, it’s best to avoid teas with excess citric acid, artificial flavors, and high levels of caffeine. You’ll also want to avoid artificial sweeteners, as they’ve can lead to bloating and excess gas. Dairy can also be a trigger for acid reflux, so you may want to avoid adding milk or cream to your tea.
Conclusion
Herbal teas can be very helpful for reducing short-term discomfort caused by stomach acid. It’s important to know which teas are beneficial and which can aggravate your symptoms. For any health-related issues, it’s always recommended that you consult with a medical professional.
