7 Natural Remedies For Heartburn

We’ve all been told repeatedly that what we put into our bodies directly affects how our bodies function and how we feel. But that doesn’t mean we’re all eating heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting foods.

Let’s be clear:

The science is true. Certain foods make us feel better, and others can cause serious problems.

Today we’re talking about one problem in particular:

Heartburn.

If you’ve ever experienced heartburn after eating a meal, you’ve probably given some serious consideration to changing what you put in your body.

Heartburn hearts. It’s not a pleasant experience. And if you deal with it on a regular basis, it’s definitely time to alter your diet.

Tired of feeling that burning in your chest? Here are seven natural remedies for heartburn that you can try right now.

What Exactly Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is that burning sensation you feel in your chest behind your breastbone. It’s usually caused by backed-up stomach acids in the esophagus, otherwise known as acid reflux. It often results from eating spicy foods, fatty foods, fried foods, carbonated beverages, and citrus fruits.

For most people, heartburn causes minor discomfort. But in extreme cases, it can feel like you’re having a heart attack. The more often you feel that sensation, the more important it is to have some heartburn remedies close at hand.

And while some foods cause heartburn, others can be a useful remedy for it.

If you’re having severe pain, it’s time to see a doctor. It could be something more serious! But if you’re experiencing an average level of discomfort, try one of these remedies:

Bananas

If you’ve ever shopped for over-the-counter heartburn remedies, you’re probably quite familiar with antacids. But if you’re looking for a natural remedy, eat a banana.

Bananas contain natural antacids. They also contain vitamins that can minimize gastrointestinal spasms.

Aloe Vera Juice

Have you ever squeezed aloe juice onto your skin to ease a burn?

Aloe vera alleviates burns, but the plant is not just for topical use. When you drink aloe vera juice, you can also soothe burns and irritations on the inside.

Aloe vera juice is also an effective preventative method for heartburn. Drink a half-cup before a meal, and it will coat your stomach and esophagus. It’s a great way to prevent heartburn before it attacks.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is useful for a variety of different purposes, one of which is to soothe heartburn.

Mix one teaspoon of baking soda into a cup of water and drink it down. This combination can help to neutralize the acids that cause acid reflux and heartburn pain.

Melatonin

The scientific data on melatonin is mixed, but some say that it can ease heartburn. Most people use melatonin as a natural sleep aid, but there is some evidence to suggest it can also relieve that burning feeling of heartburn.

It’s always best to consult with your doctor before introducing any supplements into your diet. Some supplements can counteract the effects of medications, so make sure your doctor says it’s safe to add melatonin (or any other supplement) to your daily routine.

Sugar-Free Chewing Gum

Chewing gum produces saliva, and saliva works as a buffer against acids in highly acidic foods. In addition to producing saliva, chewing gum also forces you to swallow more. The more you swallow, the more you’ll push the acids in your esophagus back out where they belong.

Just make sure you chew sugar-free gum. Otherwise, you could be welcoming a whole array of new problems into your body by taking in too much sugar.

Apple Cider Vinegar

It’s always good to have some apple cider vinegar in your pantry. You can use it to make salad dressings, soups, and sauces. You can use it to preserve food. You can even use it as a natural cleaning agent.

It can also be used to remedy heartburn pain.

To use apple cider vinegar as a heartburn remedy, dilute a small amount with a teaspoon of water.

For some people, apple cider vinegar can reduce acid levels in the stomach. For others, it can make symptoms even worse. To play it safe, test this remedy by using a small amount.

To Prevent Heartburn, Keep Your Diet In Check!

Okay, so this tip isn’t exactly a remedy. But it’s always better to take a proactive approach to your health rather than trying to fix a problem after it occurs.

Rather than seeking a home remedy, here are some things you can do to prevent heartburn from happening in the first place:

Watch What You Eat & When You Eat It

People have different reactions to different foods, but heartburn often occurs as a result of eating:

• High-fat foods
• Caffeine
• Peppermint
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Onions

For some people, even small amounts of these particular foods can cause painful heartburn.

When you ingest these foods can also be problematic. Regardless of what you eat, it’s best not to lie down immediately after a meal. Experts recommend eating your last meal or snack at least two or three hours prior to bedtime.

Keep A Food Journal

Knowing your triggers can also help to reduce heartburn from occurring. Start a food journal, and the next time you experience heartburn, record what you ate that may have caused it.

If you can identify the foods that trigger heartburn attacks, it will be a lot easier to avoid them in the future.

Conclusion

There’s nothing fun about heartburn. In fact, it can be quite painful. And the more you experience it, the more important it is to know how to naturally remedy the pain and get back to feeling like your normal self.

Bananas, aloe vera juice, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar can all be used as natural heartburn remedies. You can also alleviate the pain with a melatonin supplement or by chewing sugar-free gum. These natural remedies work for most people, but you can also prevent heartburn just by eliminating some foods from your diet.

If your heartburn is chronic, it’s definitely time to see a doctor. It could be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, and the longer you ignore it, the worse it can get.

Author Bio

Adam Marshall is a freelance writer specializing in all things apartment organization, real estate, and college advice. He currently works with The Lofts at Brentwood to help them with their online marketing.