Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a physiological condition that is more commonly known and acid reflux. It is so named because the primary symptom involves the regurgitation of gastric acids and secretions up into the lower esophagus and throat causing pain and discomfort.

The causes of acid reflux are varied. Unhealthy diet and stress can be major factors in its development. Physical causes are also contributors and include weakness and uncontrolled contractions of the esophageal sphincter and abnormal positioning of the sphincter due to low pressure at the bottom of the esophagus.

Medically the most common remedies for this condition include antacids, histamine antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, pro-motility drugs and foam barriers.

Antacids are the most commonly used over the counter treatment for acid reflux. They work quickly to neutralize the affects of excess stomach acids and can provide fast relief. The problem is they don't last very long and may require multiple doses during the day. They work best when taken before a meal to help control acid levels during the digestive process.

Another popular OTC medication is the histamine antagonist. They do a good job of controlling acid reflux and last much longer than antacids. In most cases one to two doses a day will control the gastric acids responsible for the symptoms. They do not work as quickly as antacids and can take 45 minutes to an hour to start working. They are available in any pharmacy and include the following brands: Tagamet, Zantac, and Pepcid.

The third type of over the counter drugs are the proton pump inhibitors. These work extremely well and require only one tablet a day that lasts for 24 hours. These need to be taken daily and often require 2 or 3 days before beginning to take affect. Once the daily regimen is established most people find themselves acid reflux free. The most commonly known brands include Prilosec, Prevacid,and Nexium.

The least popular forms of acid reflux medications are the pro-motility drugs and foam barriers. Pro-motility drugs increase the pressure at the bottom of the esophagus and help normalize the activity of the esophageal sphincter. The types of drugs can only be had with a prescription and are still in the experimental stage.

Foam barrier tablets work a little differently in that they create a foam barrier against gastric acids when they reach the stomach. They also contain antacids to help reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Natural acid reflux remedies are also a proven way to deal with this condition. The most common way is through diet. Most sufferers will begin to notice that certain foods seem to set off their acid reflux and avoid them to help mitigate their affects.

The most common culprits include foods high in fat content such as fried foods, whole milk and other dairy foods. Many people also have problems with tomatoes and spicy foods. Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks such as sodas can also create symptoms. Citrus fruits juices tend to be on the acidic side and should be avoided as well.

People who normally enjoy alcoholic beverages also find that certain types aggravate their reflux. Liquors should be diluted with mixers and stick to red or white wine and lighter beers. Dark beers and champagne are irritating to the stomach.

The naturally reduce stomach acids consider using eating some cinnamon toast as cinnamon has a natural ability to settle stomach acids. Other herbs that are effective against gastric acids include Mace, Nutmeg, and Slippery Elm. You can also chew dried organic grapefruit skins to help settle an upset stomach.

Another thing to remember is to chew your food thoroughly. Most people don't realize that this is the beginning of the digestive process and thoroughly masticating and mixing saliva through chewed food helps begin the process before the food ever hits your stomach.

The last thing to consider is the size of the meals you eat. Instead of eating 2 or 3 large meals a day try to eat 5 or 6 smaller meals throughout the day. Large meals put more pressure on the stomach, forcing its contents back up into the esophagus. Smaller meals decrease the amount of stomach acid needed and allow for proper digestion.

There are many acid reflux remedies out there. The vast majority of people who suffer from this condition find that using a combination of one of the medications along with dietary and lifestyle changes are the best path towards relieving the pain and discomfort it brings.