Digestive discomfort and acid reflux are more common than many people realize, and they can be incredibly disruptive to your daily life. Whether it’s occasional heartburn or chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the discomfort often stems from digestion, stomach acid, or gut health imbalances. The good news? Alongside diet and lifestyle changes, certain supplements can support your digestive system and help reduce reflux symptoms.
Here are some of the top supplements that may ease digestion and minimize reflux, including a few you might not expect.
1. Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes help break down the foods you eat, making it easier for your stomach to process fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. When your body doesn’t produce enough of these enzymes naturally, undigested food can ferment in the stomach and lead to gas, bloating, and acid reflux. Taking a high-quality digestive enzyme supplement before meals can promote smoother digestion and reduce the chances of stomach acid pushing back up the esophagus.
2. Probiotics
A healthy gut starts with a balanced microbiome. Probiotics—live beneficial bacteria—help maintain this balance, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption. For reflux sufferers, probiotics may also reduce inflammation in the gut and improve motility, lowering the risk of acid lingering in the stomach and backing up into the esophagus.
Look for multi-strain probiotic supplements that include strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, which are known for their gut-friendly benefits.
3. Reflux Chewing Gum
While gum might seem like an odd addition to a supplement list, certain types are designed specifically to fight reflux symptoms. Reflux chewing gum can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and promote swallowing, both of which support acid clearance from the esophagus.
One standout option is Reflux Gourmet, a brand known for its clean ingredients and effective reflux relief. Their reflux-friendly chewing gum can be used after meals or when symptoms flare up, offering a convenient and drug-free way to manage discomfort throughout the day.
4. DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)
DGL is a form of licorice root that’s been processed to remove glycyrrhizin, which can raise blood pressure in large amounts. It’s known for its soothing effect on the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Taking DGL before meals may help protect the esophagus and stomach lining, reducing irritation from stomach acid and promoting healing from ongoing reflux symptoms.
5. L-Glutamine
This amino acid plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining. L-glutamine supports the repair of intestinal cells and may reduce leaky gut symptoms, which can contribute to food sensitivities and digestive distress. By strengthening the gut barrier, L-glutamine may help reduce inflammation and reflux triggers in some individuals.
6. Aloe Vera Supplements
Aloe vera isn’t just for sunburns—it’s also known for its soothing properties when taken internally. Aloe vera supplements or juice (specifically those labeled for internal use) can calm inflammation in the digestive tract and reduce acid irritation in the esophagus. Just make sure to use products that are free from aloin, a compound in whole-leaf aloe that can act as a strong laxative.
Finding the Right Support for Your Gut
Every person’s digestive system is different, and not all supplements work the same for everyone. Before adding anything new to your regimen, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re managing a condition like GERD or are already taking medication.
That said, incorporating targeted digestive support—whether it’s probiotics, enzymes, or something simple like Reflux Gourmet’s reflux chewing gum—can make a noticeable difference. With the right support, you can enjoy meals with more comfort and confidence.
