Heartburn Remedies

Heartburn is mainly caused due to two reasons. One is acid reflux and second is overeating. Many a times the confusion is that symptoms of heartburn and heart pain are similar.

For heartburn, characteristic symptoms are feeling of an acidic taste mouth, night-time cough and burning feeling while swallowing food.

Role of Diet

Many people believe that drinking milk treats heart burn. The fact is that milk feels soothing while passing the esophagus but when it reaches the stomach it aggravates acid production. Also, milk contains calcium, proteins and fat. These elements can greatly increase heartburn.

Drinking orange juice and lemon juice may be helpful. Those who often suffer from heartburn must not consume chocolate. The fat and the caffeine in it is all trouble for heartburn. When a hot drink is served let it cool a little before you take a sip. Drink only lukewarm drinks. Also, avoid aerated drinks. Let the fizz evaporate before gulping them down. Eat small meals but eat more frequently.

Lifestyle

Stress significantly increases acid production in the stomach. Go for long brisk walks. It will produce endorphins which help in dealing with stress and anxiety. Breathing exercises are also helpful. Lose weight if you are obese. Do not lie flat. Raise your head a little above your body by placing a pillow under your head.

Herbal Remedies

Ginger is a very helpful herb in treating heartburn. It absorbs excess acid and calms down the nerves. It can be taken as a small piece with meals. Capsules and tablets of ginger are available in the market.

Bitters are a type of herbs which are available in capsule and tablet form. They work very well in treating heartburn and are part of traditional European medicines.

Aromatics herbs like fennel and catnip decrease heartburn. It is suggested that a person who experiences heartburn must eat fennel seeds or “gudd” (a preparation made from sugarcane) after every meal. These help in balancing acids of the stomach. Over-the-counter antacids may help but a habit should not be made of them.

It is a misconception that spicy food leads to heartburn.