Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Can Apple Cider Vinegar Be Taken For GERD?
Question: Can Apple cider vinegar help with gerd
Brief Answer:
Information
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
There isn't enough research to support that apple cider vinegar consistently helps people with acid reflux, so at this time it isn't recommended as a standard-of-care treatment by the medical profession. However, some people find that it helps them. If you are interested in reading a small study on this, you might like this article. It may not "link" so you will have to copy/paste it into your address bar.
https://repository.asu.edu/attachments/166181/content/Yeh_asu_0010N_15671.pdf
Some people find that apple cider vinegar can cause throat irritation. It can also, if taken regularly cause a decrease in potassium.
If you have tried over the counter H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, it may be time for you to go in to see your doctor about your GERD symptoms. Sometimes it is caused by an infection with helicobacter pylori. There is a test for H. pylori, and if it is positive, and treated, the GERD may get better.
I imagine you are aware of lifestyle modifications that can help GERD, but if not, here are some to consider:
If taking NSAIDs or aspirin, consider a different pain reducer as these irritate the stomach lining.
Decrease caffeine.
Avoid alcohol. Peppermint and other mints, too, because mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter making it easier for acid to come up.
Small meals (because if the stomach is distended with more food, not only does it increase acid production, but increases pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for reflux).
Avoid foods which increase your GERD. You likely know which ones they are - chocolate? tomatoes? spicy or greasy foods?
Decrease or avoid citrus or highly acidic foods.
Don't recline for 2-3 hours after eating.
Raise the head of your bed up on blocks (these are sold at some pharmacies for this specific purpose).
No smoking! Tobacco exacerbates GERD.
If overweight, try to lose some weight (I know, this is easier said than done!).
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Information
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
There isn't enough research to support that apple cider vinegar consistently helps people with acid reflux, so at this time it isn't recommended as a standard-of-care treatment by the medical profession. However, some people find that it helps them. If you are interested in reading a small study on this, you might like this article. It may not "link" so you will have to copy/paste it into your address bar.
https://repository.asu.edu/attachments/166181/content/Yeh_asu_0010N_15671.pdf
Some people find that apple cider vinegar can cause throat irritation. It can also, if taken regularly cause a decrease in potassium.
If you have tried over the counter H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, it may be time for you to go in to see your doctor about your GERD symptoms. Sometimes it is caused by an infection with helicobacter pylori. There is a test for H. pylori, and if it is positive, and treated, the GERD may get better.
I imagine you are aware of lifestyle modifications that can help GERD, but if not, here are some to consider:
If taking NSAIDs or aspirin, consider a different pain reducer as these irritate the stomach lining.
Decrease caffeine.
Avoid alcohol. Peppermint and other mints, too, because mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter making it easier for acid to come up.
Small meals (because if the stomach is distended with more food, not only does it increase acid production, but increases pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for reflux).
Avoid foods which increase your GERD. You likely know which ones they are - chocolate? tomatoes? spicy or greasy foods?
Decrease or avoid citrus or highly acidic foods.
Don't recline for 2-3 hours after eating.
Raise the head of your bed up on blocks (these are sold at some pharmacies for this specific purpose).
No smoking! Tobacco exacerbates GERD.
If overweight, try to lose some weight (I know, this is easier said than done!).
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
