Can you use ginger to treat acid reflux?

This is an automatically translated article.


Posted by Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

If you are faced with a burning sensation caused by acid reflux, you have probably tried many treatments to ease it. While over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes can be helpful, natural remedies, like ginger, can also ease your symptoms.

1. What are the benefits of ginger?


Ginger is a key ingredient in Chinese medicine. In small doses, ginger can act as an anti-inflammatory in your system. However, if you take too much, you can make your symptoms worse.
Advantages
Small doses of ginger can relieve gastrointestinal irritation. Ginger may reduce the chance of stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Ginger can also reduce inflammation. This can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Ginger is rich in antioxidants and chemicals that may provide a number of medicinal benefits. Its phenolic compounds are thought to relieve gastrointestinal irritation and reduce stomach spasms. This means that ginger can reduce the chance of acid flowing from the stomach back into the esophagus. Ginger can also reduce inflammation. A 2011 study found that participants taking a ginger supplement experienced a reduction in inflammatory markers within a month. These anti-inflammatory properties are of particular interest to researchers, especially when it comes to acid reflux. This is because inflammation in the esophagus is the main feature of this condition. Ginger can also relieve nausea, prevent muscle pain, and reduce swelling.

Gừng có thể hoạt động như một chất chống viêm
Gừng có thể hoạt động như một chất chống viêm

2. What do the studies say?


Although ginger's anti-inflammatory properties may help it fight acid reflux effectively, there is no medical basis for this. At this time, there aren't any studies on whether ginger is an appropriate treatment for acid reflux symptoms.
Research on ginger has mostly been limited to its ability to reduce nausea. Researchers are still investigating the general safety of ginger and any medicinal properties it may have.

3. How to Use Ginger to Treat Acid Reflux


Ginger can be peeled, then grated, diced or scraped for use in cooking. It can be eaten raw, steeped in water to make ginger tea, or added to soups, stir-fries, salads or other meals.
One of the chemicals found in ginger is an ingredient in some antacids. Ginger is also available in powder, capsule, oil, or tea form.
The most important thing you need to remember is to drink ginger in moderation. Taking about 4 grams - less than an eighth of a cup - is enough to give you pain relief without making symptoms worse. You can also split it up and divide it up several times a day.

Bạn nên sử dụng gừng ở mức độ vừa phải để không gây ra tác dụng phụ
Bạn nên sử dụng gừng ở mức độ vừa phải để không gây ra tác dụng phụ

4. Risks and warnings


When taken in small doses, there are very few side effects associated with the use of ginger. Minor side effects may include bloating or gas.
If you have an inflammatory condition such as acid reflux, taking more than 4 grams of ginger in 24 hours may cause additional heartburn.
Side effects are commonly associated with ginger powder.

5. Other Acid Reflux Treatment Options


There are many over-the-counter (OTC) treatments you can try if you have occasional acid reflux.
Antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide quick pain relief. H2 blockers, such as cimetidine (Tagamet) and famotidine (Pepcid), reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole (Prilosec), work to reduce stomach acid and heal the esophagus. Stronger drugs are available to help treat more severe cases of this disease. You will need a prescription for these medications. Your doctor may recommend using one or more of these drugs for best results:
Prescription strong H2 blockers. Prescription-strength proton pump inhibitors, such as esomeprazole, lansoprazole... Esophageal enhancers, such as Baclofen, can decrease how often your sphincter relaxes and allows acid to flow upward. This medication has "significant" side effects and is usually reserved for the most severe cases of GERD.

Bạn có thể sử dụng các loại thuốc mạnh hơn để điều trị tình trạng trào ngược nặng
Bạn có thể sử dụng các loại thuốc mạnh hơn để điều trị tình trạng trào ngược nặng
If medication doesn't help, surgery may be another option. Doctors usually perform one or two procedures for people with GERD. A person strengthens the esophageal sphincter using the LINX device. Another type strengthens the sphincter by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus

6. Conclusion


Small doses of ginger can be a safe, effective treatment for acid reflux. As with many alternative treatments, evidence is somewhat lacking. More research is needed to evaluate its true effectiveness.
If you choose to try ginger, be sure to inform your doctor. They can provide further guidance and assurance that this will not interact with any medications you may be taking. Your doctor can also help if your reflux becomes severe.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

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