Have you ever felt a bout of stomach acid spurting into your throat making you salivate more? Then you are suffering from water brash or acid brash, a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) that leaves a sour taste on your tongue making you feel extremely uncomfortable.

In severe cases, water brash can cause heartburn. If you are facing frequent acid or water brash, see a doctor immediately as it can damage the lining of your esophagus.

However, there are also a few easy home remedies that can provide respite from water brash.

Cloves and Ginger GERD Symptom

Cloves:

Chew on a couple of cloves to reduce water brash as they instantly regulate the functioning of salivary glands. Cloves are also a powerhouse of beneficial compounds that help in improving liver function and reducing the production of digestive acids.  

Aloe Vera:

Two tablespoons of pure aloe vera juice help in reducing the symptoms of water brash. It not only alleviates acid reflux but also reduces heart burn. Take pure aloe vera juice on empty stomach daily to prevent water brash.

Drink Water:

Keep sipping on water at regular intervals to reduce the effects of water brash. Water dilutes the harshness of acid and prevents it from striking it into the throat. It also keeps your breath fresh after a sudden water brash.

Ginger Water:

Ginger water is widely recommended by Ayurveda in dealing with various symptoms related to GERD.  Put some small pieces of ginger in hot water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sip on it regularly for relief. This ginger water also soothes the tummy and prevents further water brash.

Fermented Foods:

Indian fermented foods like idli, dosa, curd rice with salt can be very helpful in reducing the symptoms. These fermented foods raise the pH levels in the body, relieve inflammation and help in soothing the inner lining of the stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Stop Water Brash From Reflux?

Water brash (excess saliva due to acid reflux) can be reduced by:

  • Taking antacids or acid reducers
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals
  • Avoiding food triggers like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
  • Staying upright after eating
  • Chewing sugar-free gum helps neutralise stomach acid

 How Do You Treat GERD Caused Due To Water Brash?

Drink warm water in small sips to help wash down acid.

Alkaline water (pH 8.0 or higher) may help neutralise stomach acid.

Avoid drinking large amounts of water at once, especially during meals, to prevent stomach stretching.

What Is The Fastest Relief For GERD?

Antacids (like Tums, Gaviscon) provide quick relief within minutes.

Drinking a small amount of baking soda water (1/2 teaspoon baking soda in a glass of water) can help temporarily.

Chewing gum stimulates saliva, helping neutralise acid faster.

What is the best food for GERD?

Some of the foods that are beneficial for easing GERD symptoms include:

  • Oatmeal
  • Bananas
  • Melons  
  • Green vegetables (broccoli, spinach, kale) 
  • Lean proteins

    These foods are gentle on the stomach and help prevent acid reflux.

    What Fruit Relieves GERD?

    Bananas are a natural antacid that helps relieve acidity

    Melons like cantaloupe, honeydew can soothe irritation

    Apples' non-acidic varieties, like Red Delicious, these fruits are low in acid and can soothe the esophagus.

     Can GERD Be Cured?

    Mild to moderate GERD can often be managed and greatly improved with lifestyle changes and medication. However, GERD is typically a chronic condition, meaning it can come back if not properly managed.

    (This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

    Author Profile:

    M Sowmya Binu:

    With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

     

    Reference:

     Different Traditional Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Adults

    Yun-kai Dai 1,2, Yun-bo Wu 1,2, Hao Wen 3, Ru-liu Li 1,2, Wei-jing Chen 1,2, Chunzhi Tang 3, Liming Lu 3,*, Ling Hu

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7378538/

    Efficacy and Safety of a Natural Remedy for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Double-Blinded Randomized-Controlled Study

    Umberto Alecci 1, Francesco Bonina 2, Andrea Bonina 3, Luisa Rizza 3, Santi Inferrera 1, Carmen Mannucci 4, Gioacchino Calapai 4,*

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5080480/