If you’ve experienced acid reflux or heartburn, you know how uncomfortable it can be. You may have already tried common over-the-counter remedies like antacids or alginate-based products to manage your symptoms. Perhaps your doctor has even prescribed stronger medications like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers. Understanding how these different remedies work to relieve painful symptoms can make a big difference in choosing the right one for you. This post explores the differences between antacids and alginates and explains how RefluxRaft’s alginate-based formula offers a unique, natural way to find relief.
Acid Reflux and the Need for Relief
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid rises into the esophagus, causing irritation and a familiar burning sensation. Occasional reflux isn’t unusual, but a solution for regular relief is important for those with frequent symptoms or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Did you know? Unlike the stomach, the esophagus lacks a protective lining against acid. This is why reflux can cause discomfort and even damage esophageal tissue over time.
Antacids: Quick Relief Through Neutralization
Antacids are among the most common acid reflux remedies. They work by neutralizing stomach acid, reducing the burn associated with reflux. Antacids are made from calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or aluminum hydroxide. They are fast-acting and often provide quick, short-term relief. In addition, they often contain sugar or artificial sweeteners.
However, because they work only at the surface level, antacids may not address the root of the problem, and their effects don’t last long. Some studies, like one published in Gastroenterology in 2017, have noted that prolonged antacid use can cause a rebound effect, where the stomach produces more acid after the antacid wears off. If you want more information about acid rebound, check out our blog, Understanding Acid Rebound and Keeping Reflux at Bay.
For those with frequent symptoms, a different approach may be more effective.
Alginates: A Natural Barrier for Lasting Acid Reflux Support
Alginates have been widely used in Europe and Asia for decades as a preferred method for managing reflux symptoms. Alginates are derived from brown seaweed and work differently from antacids. Instead of neutralizing acid, alginates create a physical barrier on top of your stomach contents, which helps prevent acid from reaching your esophagus. Essentially, they form a “raft” (hence, RefluxRaft!) that floats atop stomach acid, providing a natural shield.
Unlike antacids, alginates offer longer-lasting relief, as the barrier can remain effective for several hours. This physical approach is ideal for those seeking sustained relief from acid reflux without affecting stomach acidity.
Fun Fact: Alginates have been shown to reduce acid exposure in the esophagus by up to 50%, as highlighted in a 2018 study in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics.
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The Role of Sodium Bicarbonate in Antacids and RefluxRaft
While both antacids and RefluxRaft contain calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate as ingredients, they have different mechanisms and outcomes and are present in different amounts. Antacids use sodium bicarbonate to neutralize excess stomach acid directly. Think of it as a chemical reaction where sodium bicarbonate acts as a base, counteracting the acidity. This provides quick but temporary relief from heartburn symptoms.
RefluxRaft, on the other hand, uses these ingredients in a different way. They are part of a unique formulation that includes sodium alginate, a natural polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed. In the presence of stomach acid (which contains hydrochloric acid) and a calcium source (in this case the calcium carbonate), sodium alginate transforms into a gel-like substance called calcium alginate. To get that gel to float, or RAFT, on the top of your stomach contents, we just need to add a little carbon dioxide. That’s where the bicarbonates come in; they react with a little bit of stomach acid next to the raft to generate a little gas that helps it float! With this gel raft l floating to the top of your stomach contents, a protective barrier is formed that prevents acid from escaping into the esophagus.
Why RefluxRaft Utilizes the Power of Alginates
RefluxRaft is formulated to provide relief using alginates as a natural solution for acid reflux. Unlike antacids, which neutralize stomach acid, RefluxRaft’s alginate-based formula creates a gentle, long-lasting barrier to prevent acid from rising. Our all-natural formula is also free from sugar and artificial sweeteners. This natural approach allows the stomach to maintain its essential digestion acidity while providing a protective layer against reflux.
For people looking for a solution beyond quick fixes, RefluxRaft offers an option that aligns with the body’s natural processes without the rebound effect sometimes associated with antacids.
Scientific Support for Alginate-Based Relief
Multiple studies highlight the efficacy of alginates in managing acid reflux symptoms. In 2020, a study found that patients using alginate-based formulas reported better symptom relief and satisfaction than those using antacids alone. This is partly because alginates work directly to block acid from entering the esophagus instead of simply lowering stomach acid.
Such findings have solidified alginates as a go-to for individuals desiring all-natural and long-lasting acid reflux relief.
Choose Natural Relief with RefluxRaft
Both antacids and alginates can be helpful for acid reflux, but they work in very different ways. While antacids provide short-term relief by neutralizing acid, alginates, like those in RefluxRaft create a natural barrier that can keep acid in the stomach and away from the esophagus for hours.
If you’re looking for a natural, effective solution that works with your body and not against it, RefluxRaft’s alginate-based formula could be just what you need for managing frequent heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD symptoms.
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The statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool. We are not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation.