Can you use honey 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.

When over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription options don't work, some people are turning to natural remedies to relieve symptoms, including honey.

1. What are the benefits of honey?

Honey has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments. Several studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that honey can soothe the throat and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
The benefits of honey :
Honey is rich in antioxidants. Some types may be as high in antioxidants as fruits and vegetables. Honey contains natural hydrogen peroxide. This makes it effective in treating wounds. Honey also has some antibacterial and antiviral properties. Honey has been used medicinally throughout history. The exact benefits depend on the type of honey used. Raw, unpasteurized honey offers the most health benefits, nutrients, and enzymes. The substance is very rich in antioxidants. They can help protect you from cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can contribute to the aging process. They can also lead to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. The antioxidants present in honey can help prevent heart disease.
Honey also has some antibacterial and antiviral properties. Raw honey can not only kill bacteria and fungi, but also contains natural antiseptics.
Medical grade makuna honey is considered the most effective honey for wound treatment. This honey may have other antibacterial properties along with its natural hydrogen peroxide.
Honey can also help with digestive problems, such as diarrhea and peptic ulcers.

2. What do the studies say?

Honey may work in a number of ways to help relieve acid reflux symptoms. An article published by the Indian Journal of Medical Research points to several key benefits:
Honey is both an antioxidant and a scavenger of free radicals. Reflux can be caused in part by free radicals that damage the cells lining the digestive tract. Honey can prevent damage by eliminating free radicals. Honey can reduce inflammation in the esophagus. The texture of honey allows it to better coat the mucous membrane of the esophagus. This may contribute to longer-lasting pain relief. Honey is natural and can be used alongside other traditional treatments. Despite these claims, more formal studies are needed to evaluate its true effectiveness as a treatment for acid reflux.

3. How to Use Honey to Treat Acid Reflux

In a clinical review published by the British Medical JournalTrusted Source, researchers suggested that honey's viscous properties may help reduce acidity. One member of their group saw relief from his heartburn symptoms after consuming five milliliters (about a teaspoon) of raw honey.
If you don't want to drink a spoonful of honey yourself, you can mix it with a cup of warm water or tea. Drinking a glass of milk or eating some yogurt can give you the same soothing effect.

4. Risks and warnings

Most people can consume honey with any adverse side effects.
Honey can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, low blood sugar, or take medication that affects blood sugar, check with your doctor before trying this home remedy. You should also ask your doctor about taking honey if you are taking medication or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Honey should not be given to infants under 12 months of age.
If you have a honey allergy, you should not try this home remedy. If you notice any unusual side effects, you should discontinue use and seek medical attention.

5. Other Acid Reflux Treatment Options

You can also try over-the-counter (OTC) medications to treat occasional acid reflux.
Other antacids can help neutralize stomach acid for quick relief. H2 blockers, such as cimetidine and famotidine, can reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole, also reduce stomach acid. They can also help heal the esophagus. If your symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe stronger versions of these medications. These drugs may be used alone or together, depending on your signs and symptoms.
For the most severe cases, your doctor may recommend a medication that strengthens the esophagus, such as baclofen. This medicine can decrease how often your sphincter relaxes and allows acid to flow upwards. Baclofen has significant side effects, including fatigue and confusion.
In rare cases, surgery to strengthen the esophageal sphincter may be necessary.

6. What can you do now?

Although research on honey and acid reflux is limited, it is still considered a safe and effective way to treat acid reflux.
If you decide to try honey, remember:
The usual dose is about one teaspoon per day. Honey can affect your blood sugar. Most people can take honey without side effects. Antacids or alternative treatments often help relieve occasional bouts of acid reflux. If your symptoms persist, you should consult your doctor. The sooner you get help for your symptoms, the sooner you'll be on the road to recovery and avoid further damage to your esophagus

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