Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help With Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids flow back into your esophagus. It usually results in a burning sensation in your chest that occurs after you eat or lay down. Sometimes, acid reflux can make it difficult to swallow or make you feel like you have a lump in your throat. Most people experience acid reflux at some point in their lives. Occasionally, eating a large meal or eating late at night can trigger symptoms. Smoking, eating fried foods, and drinking alcohol and coffee can also cause it. However, it can be linked to other physical conditions, such as a hiatal hernia, obesity, scleroderma, or pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

Most of the time, people can manage their symptoms by taking over-the-counter medications, such as Tums, Mylanta, or Rolaids. Another option is to limit any foods or drinks that seem to trigger a flare-up (via Mayo Clinic). However, there may be a holistic preventative measure you can take as well.

If you take a quick look around the internet, you will find plenty of websites that claim apple cider vinegar can reduce symptoms associated with acid reflux. Some suggest that the good bacteria in it helps digestion and, as a result, improves reflux symptoms. That being said, scientists have not conducted much research on the topic, per Medical News Today. 

If you want to try apple cider vinegar for acid reflux, keep in mind that it might not work. If your food pipe is aggravated, it could make symptoms worse. It also can interfere with certain medications, including laxatives and diuretics. Healthline also suggests not drinking apple cider vinegar if you have an ulcer. The good news is that there is little risk if you want to try it, and there's not much to it. Simply mix a teaspoon with a glass of water before or after meals to see if it brings you any positive results (via Medical News Today).