It’s National Vinegar Day and what better way to celebrate than to drink a drop of vinegar to help ease that burning pain. There are many types of vinegar; however, apple cider vinegar has been known to help with heartburn.
Even though heartburn is caused by excess acid in the stomach making its way into the esophagus, some acid is still needed in the stomach in order for it to function correctly. There are some theories as to how apple cider vinegar can help with heartburn:
- The acidity in the vinegar is believed to help break down the fats in the stomach.
- The acid can help with balancing acid production in the stomach. Acetic is the main component of apple cider vinegar and is weaker acid than hydrochloric acid, the acid produced by our stomachs.
Whether it works one way or the other, apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for acid reflux successfully.
How to take apple cider vinegar
Simply mix 1 or 2 teaspoons in 8oz of water and drink before a meal or when you feel heartburn. You can even take it on its own. The only way to find out is by trial and error.
However, there are some possible side effects of using this vinegar to ease heartburn:
- Damaged tooth enamel – the acid is highly acidic, which can damage your teeth. Drink with a straw to avoid the vinegar touching your teeth and rinse your mouth after.
- Interference with medications – laxatives, diabetes drugs, and heart disease medications.
- Aggravate ulcers – the acidity from the vinegar can actually worsen your stomach ulcer.
As a home remedy for heartburn, apple cider vinegar gets some good reviews. However, if you’re suffering from major heartburn and nothing is helping, contact Houston Heartburn today and let our specialist take a look.