Updated: Jul 4, 2020
Heartburn which is also referred to as “acid indigestion/reflux”—is just a burning pain in your chest which worsens after eating or maybe just lying down. Heartburn simply occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus). The acid backup could also be worse when you're bent over or lying down. This might sound mild because of its term, “heartburn”, but actually , this condition can sometimes be extreme and strike at you anytime.
There are certain foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn in some people, including—spicy foods, onions, citrus products, tomato products, like ketchup, fatty or fried foods, peppermint, chocolate, alcohol, carbonated beverages, coffee or other caffeinated beverages, and especially consuming large or fatty meals within the evening. In some cases, heartburn can happen if you’re overweight or pregnant.
But before doing so, it's important that you simply know about heartburn—is typically thanks to regurgitation of gastric acid into the esophagus and is that the major symptom of esophageal reflux disease also referred to as GERD. The GERD only happens when your heartburn frequently occurs and results in severe pain. But in some cases it could possibly be a symbol of ischemic heart condition .
Some might think that heartburn can cure itself, but no, it can occur more frequently and therefore the pain gets unbearable, so you ought to do something about it. So for you to avoid having severe heartburn or GERD, you ought to know and check out these natural remedies. Note that the effectiveness of the varied natural remedies for heartburn differs from person to person.
1. CHEWING GUM
A small study found that chewing sugar-free gum for half an hour after lunch or dinner could reduce acid levels within the esophagus. Chewing gum after a meal may help alleviate heartburn and acid reflux.
But you ought to avoid peppermint or spearmint flavors. This easy remedy is often for everybody without risking any harsh side effects.
2. ALOE VERA JUICE
The gel from aloe vera leaves are known for soothing a sunburn, but can also soothe your heartburn! Some people take aloe vera internally to scale back stomach acid and calm irritation.
Intake aloe vera in small amounts and see the side effects. If it works for you, then, just repeat as needed. But if not, then try other natural remedies that would work for you.
3. BAKING SODA
A teaspoon of baking soda neutralizes stomach acid if ever it comes up, you won’t feel that burning sensation anymore. Prepare it by mixing 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 8 ounces of water and drink all of it.
Repeat as required, but don’t exceed seven doses in at some point . Only use this remedy for every week, thanks to its high salt content and other side effects like swelling or nausea.
4. CHAMOMILE TEA
Drink a cup of chamomile tea 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime to balance the acidity levels in your stomach. Chamomile also alleviates stress levels, which may contribute to heartburn. You can find instant chamomile tea in any grocery store or you can simply make your own from fresh chamomile. It starts by simply boiling water, stirring in chamomile petals and allowing them to simmer for about 45 seconds. Lastly, strain them out and pour the tea into a mug, adding honey or lemon or as preferred.
5. GINGER/ GINGER TEA
Ginger has since been used as a remedy for heartburn for hundreds of years. Ginger can definitely help relieve nausea, so some believe it could also relieve heartburn. You may add grated or diced ginger root to your favorite stir-fry recipes, soups, and other foods. You can make ginger tea, steep raw ginger root, dried ginger root, or ginger tea bags in boiling water.
Ginger tea on the other hand, is great for many stomach conditions, from the common stomach ache to nausea to chronic acid reflux. To make it flavorful, just simmer slices of ginger root in water for 30 minutes. For maximum effect, remember to drink the tea before a meal to maximize the effect of this natural remedy.
6. LOW-ACID FRUITS
First in line are bananas—which have natural antacid properties that counteract acid reflux and heartburn. Consume bananas once each day after eating since it’s bland and low-acid that folks often find to be gentle in their gastrointestinal system. Don’t forget honeydew, cantaloupe, melon, and watermelon since they're also good for alleviating heartburn.
7. PROBIOTICS
Eating food containing probiotics is good for gastrointestinal issues. Probiotics are good bacteria that can be found in some foods as well as in your digestive tract, where they promote digestive health. Look for yogurts that are labeled as containing live active cultures of Lactobacillus acidophilus.
8. FIBER
Make sure you are getting plenty of fiber in your diet, but don't go from eating very little fiber to lots of fiber overnight as that can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
One good example is oatmeal because it’s not only a breakfast favorite but also an excellent source of fiber. A diet high in fiber has been linked with a lower risk of heartburn. Other sources of fiber include whole-grain breads and whole-grain rice.
9. STANDING UP AFTER A MEAL
Eating a meal and then lying down flat right after, creates an upward pressure of the food inside your stomach therefore, also creating pressure on your esophageal sphincter. If you’re standing up, the law of gravity helps with your digestion and keeps the food in one place that’s why It’s best to eat three to 3-4 hours before lying down to allow time for your food to fully digest.
Before going to your local pharmacy and taking medication, it is better to try these natural remedies. But if you've already tried home remedies and lifestyle adjustments and still have frequent heartburn, then it’s time to consult your doctor or a gastroenterologist.
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