6 Natural Omeprazole Alternatives

Although omeprazole is a helpful medication to treat acid, there are other natural alternatives that can provide us with the same benefits without the side effects
6 Natural Omeprazole Alternatives
Karla Henríquez

Written and verified by the doctor Karla Henríquez.

Last update: 31 July, 2023

Omeprazole alternatives offer additional options for medication that treats stomach problems. Usually, these problems are linked to excess acid, like gastritis or stomach ulcers.

Basically, arietal cells secrete acid through structures called “proton pumps”. And, Omeprazole alternatives are responsible for deactivating the stomach’s parietal cells, which reduces the production of stomach acid by 95%.

Antacids and omeprazole

Antacids neutralize hydrochloric acids in the stomach which leads to instant effect that treats the symptoms of acid.

On the other hand, omeprazole starts to kick in after four days of its use, which is why its considered to be a long-term treatment.

It’s important to mention that while you can buy antacids over the counter, omeprazole is a prescription drug that has to be issued by a doctor. 

Side effects of omeprazole

Recent studies have linked the prolonged use of omeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors (PPI) to the following:

  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Increased risk of fractures from osteoporosis
  • Higher risk of dementia
  • Increased risk of suffering cardiac diseases

Natural omeprazole alternatives

Using these remedies, along with following a healthy diet, can help up say goodbye to omeprazole and ward off stomach disorders caused by acid.

Baking soda

baking soda as omeprazole alternatives
As a natural antacid, baking soda is a great substitute for omeprazole.

However, it should be avoided by people who suffer high blood pressure because of its high sodium content.

Ingredients

  • 1 baking soda (10 g)
  • 1 cup of water (200 ml)

Who should I do?

  • Add the tablespoon of baking soda to the glass of water.
  • Drink immediately, before the bubbles form.
  • Drink it once a day, after eating.

Apple cider vinegar

It’s important to use organic apple cider vinegar in order to avoid any additives.

Apple cider vinegar makes for a great ally in treating the immediate symptoms of gastric acid.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vineger (10 ml)
  • 1 cup of water (200 ml)

What should I do?

  • Add the tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the water.
  • Drink once a day, before lunch.

Aloe juice

aloe juice as omeprazole alternatives

Though we can find aloe juices in stores, they often contain added sugars, which later converts to acid when entering the body. This is why it’s crucial to make our own aloe juice at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 aloe vera leaves
  • ½ cup of purified water (100 ml)

What should I do?

  • Cut the leaves in half horizontally and take out the pulp using a spoon.
  • Put the pulp and water in a blender.
  • Blend together until the mixture is liquid.

Drinking instruction

  • Have a tablespoon of aloe juice every day in the morning.
  • Continue the treatment for at least one month.

Greek yogurt and cilantro

As a dairy product, yogurt is a natural source of glutamine. This substance helps naturally reduce stomach acids. And, it can serve as one of many omeprazole alternatives.

Ingredients

  • 5 fresh cilantro leaves
  • Tablespoon of non-fat Greek yogurt (20 g)
  • ¾ cup of purified water (150 ml)

What should I do?

  • Mix all the ingredients together until well incorporated.

Eating instruction

  • Eat daily after eating.

We recommend that you read: Teas that Fight Digestion Problems

Amla fruit

amla fruit as omeprazole alternatives

Amla is a berry that originates in India that is becoming popular in Ayurvedic medicine thanks to its high nutrient content.

Eating instruction

  • Eat a fruit daily in the morning.
  • As it has a strong acidic taste, try soaking it in salt water before comsuming.
  • It can also be eaten as a powder that is sold in stores. Make sure to buy a high-quality amla power.

Watermelon juice

Watermelon is a great alternative to omeprazole. There are plenty of ways to consume it like as a dessert or even as a drink. Drinking watermelon juice is an excellent way to take advantage of all of its properties.

Drinking instruction

  • Drink a cup (200 ml) of watermelon juice three times a day.
  • Continue for a month.

Healthy habits and advice

As with any treatment, a healthy diet that’s low in fat and abundant in fruits and vegetables is highly recommended.

  • Avoid foods with processed sugars because they can imbalance stomach bacteria and provoke acid symptoms to return.
  • Chew food well to help with digestion and avoid reflux.
  •  Instead of three big meals, eat five small meals a day.

All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.



This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.