Besides prescription and OTC medications, some people find relief from dietary supplements to ease symptoms.
Probiotics may alleviate acid refluxby affecting immune function and protecting the stomach lining from acid.
Probiotics may also decrease acid production and aid digestion.
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A review of 13 studies looked at various probiotic strains and their impact on acid reflux symptoms.
Its possible that takingprobiotic supplementscould improve acid reflux symptoms.
But they may not work for everyone, based on the mixed results seen in studies.
Though probiotics are generally well tolerated, some people have mild side effects, such as bloating or flatulence.
Iberogast
Iberogastis a proprietary supplement product.
FDgard
FDgard is a supplement that supports digestive health and provides short-term indigestion relief.
It contains caraway oil and L-menthol.
A 2022 study of 600 people found FDgard helped reduce symptoms of functional dyspepsia in 95% of participants.
Most people reported rapid symptom relief within two hours of taking the supplement.
No serious side effects were reported with long-term use.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B deficiencies are associated with acid reflux and treatment withproton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
This usually happens when PPIs are taken for a long time, leading todecreased absorption of vitamin B12.
Research onB vitaminsand their association with acid reflux is conflicting.
Generally, studies found lower vitamin B12 in people taking long-term PPIs than in those not taking them.
Ginger
Gingeris well-known for its natural anti-nausea properties, but it may also relieve symptoms of acid reflux.
Its believed to reduce reflux by helping food move more quickly through the digestive tract.
While ginger can help with nausea, it may not address other reflux symptoms like heartburn or chest discomfort.
Ginger might help if your acid reflux symptoms are related to nausea or vomiting.
Additionally, some supplements may interact with medications.
Lifestyle Changes to Support Acid Reflux Relief
Making lifestyle changes can significantly improve acid reflux symptoms.
Frequent heartburn symptoms (more than twice a week) may be treated withacid-reducing medications.
As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such asNSF,U.S.
Examples include probiotics, Iberogast, FDgard, melatonin, B vitamins, and ginger.
Individual results may vary.
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