Health Guide (SGM) Home Remedies for Heartburn Sufferers is here at SGMag.  We’re constantly seeking ways to help our readers live healthy lives.  So, if you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from heartburn, be it occasionally or chronically, you’re naturally looking for home remedies for heartburn. We’ve got your back — Never fear SGMag is Here!

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acids rise up into the esophagus (the tube between the stomach and the pharynx, which is at the back of your throat) because the valve that separates the stomach contents from the esophagus is faulty. Causes: Acid reflux commonly occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not work properly, and allows acid to seep upwards from the stomach to the esophagus.

What is the difference between acid reflux and heartburn?

Acid reflux and heartburn are often used interchangeably. Acid reflux is the movement, the action of stomach acids going up the wrong way, while heartburn refers to the burning sensation. So,

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning discomfort that generally is felt in the chest just behind the breastbone. The burning sensation results when harsh stomach juices come in contact with and irritate the delicate lining of the esophagus, the tube-like structure that connects the mouth to the stomach.

Home Remedies for Heartburn!

First and foremost, Know Your Triggers: Take notes on the foods and drinks you consumed prior to the heartburn episode, the medications you were taking, and your activities, including sleep and exercise. It’s smart to stop eating any foods that bring on heartburn. Watch out for raw onions, alcohol, coffee, peppermint and spicy stuff. In addition, record any treatment you took to ease heartburn and whether it worked.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is counted among the great remedies for heartburn. For hundreds of  years people by the thousands have reported that natural apple cider vinegar  really works for them.  If you can’t stand drinking Apple cider vinegar it can be taken in tablet, capsule, or liquid form.

2.  Antacids

Antacids come is 2nd among remedies for heartburn. They neutralize acids in our stomachs. Antacids will go to work on your heartburn immediately, but they provide only temporary relief. Unlike the proactive PPI, antacids are commonly taken after you eat or when discomfort begins. While no heartburn treatments cure the condition, antacids provide only temporary relief. Recommended for maximun heartburn relief try Kirkland Signature  or for mild relief try Prilosec!

3. Chem Gum

Chewing gum is great natural remedy for heartburn. Gum produces more salvia which makes you swallow more often, which pushes those nasty acids back out of your esophagus. Your best bet will be sugar-free, non-minty gums, to protect your teeth and chew for 30 minutes after each meal.

4. Eat Slowly

Most wouldn’t count eating slow among natural remedies for heartburn, but it is!  When we eat quickly–we also more shallow air and a stomach too full can relax the valve that prevents acid back-splash, increasing the risk of a heartburn attack!

5. Don’t Smoke

Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter. Smoking also stimulates the production of stomach acid.

6. Eat Bananas

Bananas is one of the  ancient natural remedies for heartburn in our bodies uses to act as a natural antacid.   Eating either fresh or dried bananas will do the trick.

7.  Drink Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has been used to help neutralize stomach acid. It is also used by people as a stress reliever.

8.  Drink Aloe Vera Juice

The juice from the aloe vera plant has been used to soothe an irritated esophagus. Aloe vera juice has a long history of use in Europe as a natural home remedy to relive heartburn. You should only use aloe vera juice that has been specifically prepared for internal use.  And you’ll find none better than Lilly of the Field Aloe Vera!

9.  Eat Turmeric

Turmeric helps stimulate digestion and prevents acid build-up.  Turmeric is used in curried foods. If you don’t want to use turmeric in your cooking, it is available in capsule form and can be taken before meals.

10 . Baking Soda

Although baking soda is a natural antacid, be careful with this one. However,  if you dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water, it can neutralize acid and temporarily relieve heartburn caused by acid reflux. There are several drawbacks:  when you add baking soda to water, it releases carbon dioxide. That’s what causes the fizz. This fizz can open the LES to enable you to burp, but it also helps relieve the pressure from bloating.  Unfortunately, though, opening the LES can also allow stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. Be careful with this one! As always check with your doctor first!

Ally Briscoe, SGMag