DGL for Heartburn: Does It Really Work? 6 Points on Dose, Evidence and Warnings
Why People Look Into DGL for Heartburn
Burning after meals is a daily problem for many people, and after one antacid too many some start looking for a herbal option. One of the most popular is DGL for heartburn, meaning deglycyrrhizinated licorice taken as chewable tablets. Here are 6 honest points about what it can and cannot do. For an introduction to the supplement itself, read DGL licorice.
1. How DGL for Heartburn Is Thought to Work
Laboratory studies suggest that licorice compounds may increase the mucus that protects the lining of the stomach and food pipe, and may calm inflammation. That is why the tablet is chewed and mixed with saliva before swallowing. These are proposed mechanisms, though, not proof of healing.
2. What Human Studies Show
Small randomised trials have tested GutGard, the same extract used in the Nature’s Way chewables. Some found better relief of functional dyspepsia symptoms, such as burning, bloating and fullness, compared with placebo over about 30 days. The bottom line is that the evidence is encouraging but modest, and the trials involved few people.
| Option | What it offers | Note |
|---|---|---|
| DGL chewables | Gentle lining support | Small, modest evidence |
| Antacids and Gaviscon | Fast, short-term relief | For occasional symptoms |
| PPIs and H2 blockers | Reduce acid production | Strongest evidence, with medical advice |
For more on fast-acting options, see the Gaviscon guide.
3. How to Take DGL for Heartburn
In the Nature’s Way product, every 3 chewable tablets contain 75 mg GutGard and 150 mg glycine. Adults chew 3 tablets after food in the morning and 3 tablets after food in the evening. Two versions share the same active ingredients:
- Nature’s Way DGL Licorice (regular), which contains fructose.
- Nature’s Way DGL Licorice Sugar-Free, sweetened with sorbitol and mannitol; sugar alcohols can cause gas or loose stools in larger amounts.
Both contain less than 1% glycyrrhizin, which is what makes them different from ordinary licorice.
4. Can It Replace Heartburn Medicines?
No. If your doctor has prescribed a PPI or an H2 blocker for severe reflux, an inflamed food pipe or an ulcer, do not stop it in favour of a supplement. You can, however, discuss using DGL for heartburn as an add-on. Lifestyle steps also matter: smaller meals, no food in the 3 hours before bed, raising the head of the bed, losing excess weight and cutting back on coffee, fried food and smoking.
5. Alarm Symptoms That Need a Doctor
- Black stools or vomiting blood.
- Trouble or pain swallowing.
- Unintended weight loss or repeated vomiting.
- New symptoms starting after the age of 55.
- Symptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.
With suspected ulcers, doctors usually test for H. pylori, because treating this infection helps stop ulcers from coming back.
6. Safety Points to Know
Because almost all the glycyrrhizin is removed, DGL is not expected to raise blood pressure the way regular licorice can. Read why in licorice and blood pressure. Still, ask a professional first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have heart failure, kidney disease or high blood pressure, or take diuretics, digoxin, steroids or other regular medicines.
DGL for Heartburn FAQ
Can I chew extra tablets when heartburn is bad?
Do not go above the label dose without advice. Severe or frequent burning needs a medical review, and an acid-reducing medicine may suit it better than DGL for heartburn.
Is DGL for heartburn suitable for children?
The label dose is for adults only, so give it to children only on a doctor’s advice.
Who benefits most from DGL for heartburn?
Adults with mild, occasional burning or indigestion who have no alarm symptoms and want a gentle add-on to lifestyle changes. Keeping a simple symptom diary for 2 to 3 weeks helps you judge whether it is really helping.
How quickly does it work?
Some people notice relief within days, while the studies measured results after about 2 to 4 weeks.
Can I take it with my reflux medicine?
Often yes, but confirm with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take several medicines.
Is it suitable in pregnancy?
Ask your doctor first, as safety data in pregnancy are limited.
Conclusion
DGL for heartburn may help some people as a gentle option backed by modest evidence, but it does not replace a diagnosis or prescribed acid-reducing medicines. You can find Nature’s Way DGL Licorice and the sugar-free version at No Style Like pharmacy.
This article was reviewed by the No Style Like pharmacy content team. It is for general awareness only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not stop prescribed stomach medicines without your doctor’s advice, and seek care promptly for any alarm symptoms. For more information see the NCCIH licorice root page.