Health & Medical Health Care

Using Apple Cider Vinegar to Cure Heartburn

Heartburn can be such a huge discomforting feeling.
If you have just experienced it and do not understand it, it can be quite alarming.
Heartburn is the most prominent symptom of acid reflux, a condition where acid in the stomach regurgitates back into the esophagus.
The esophagus does not contain the same mucous lining that the stomach does; therefore the acid will cause a burning sensation which we refer to as heartburn.
One of the more popular home remedies applied to treat heartburn is a vinegar mixture.
The most common is apple cider vinegar.
You will find countless number of testimonials on line on how apple cider vinegar is an effective cure for heartburn.
Unfortunately, there is no scientific proof that vinegar indeed cures heartburn.
Heartburn, as discussed above is commonly caused by acid flowing back into the esophagus.
In fact, the most common medication for acid reflux reduces acid production.
The common argument therefore is, how taking an acid (vinegar) help reduce a condition caused by over acidity? LES or Lower Esophageal Sphincter is a muscle found at the juncture between the stomach and the esophagus.
One of its functions is to keep material from the stomach, including gastric acid, from returning back into the esophagus.
It works by applying pressure to close the opening between the two.
When food is ingested, this muscle will relax to allow food to go through.
One theory on the use of vinegar to cure heartburn is based on how the LES reacts to acids.
When the stomach secretes acids, the LES will contract to avoid acid to reflux back into the esophagus.
When there is little or a lack of acid, the LES will relax thus allowing the little acid to regurgitate back into the esophagus.
Taking vinegar raises the acid level in the stomach causing the LES to contract thus relieving heartburn.
In this theory, two tablespoons of vinegar is mixed with water and taken for relief.
While there are many testimonies of vinegar curing heartburn, it is important to note that there remains no scientific proof that indeed vinegar is an effective remedy.
Unfortunately debates will continue until medical science can prove its effectiveness.
If you suffer from heartburn, acid reflux is the most common cause.
However, there are other possible causes of heartburn.
Therefore, to get the best treatment for heartburn consult a physician who can recommend and prescribe medication and some lifestyle or dietary changes that can cure you of this ailment.
Furthermore, a physician can explore any other potential causes and provide you with the right medication.

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