11 Powerful Natural Heartburn Remedies That Can Relieve Pain

There are a number of very effective natural heartburn remedies, most of which are readily available and can significantly help ease the pain and discomfort associated with the condition.

Heartburn is something that practically everyone has to deal with occasionally. Many people suffer from recurrent heartburn. It seems no matter what they eat, they experience the symptoms.

Here, you can learn more about this common problem and how you can treat or prevent it naturally.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is the term commonly used to describe symptoms that occur when excessive stomach acid is produced and enters the lower part of the esophagus. This is also called acid reflux. The symptoms may include a burning sensation in the stomach or at the center of the chest, just behind the breastbone.

Warning!

Symptoms of heartburn are very similar to those of a heart attack because the heart and esophagus share common nerve pathways. New chest pain should be evaluated by a physician. In all cases, cardiac problems should be ruled out. Heartburn symptoms could be a medical emergency.

Heartburn Causes

In most cases, heartburn is caused by eating or drinking. Some of the foods that often trigger heartburn include:

·      spicy foods

·      coffee

·      acidic foods – tomatoes, citrus fruits, etc.

·      fatty foods – especially foods fried in butter

Overeating can also cause symptoms because the stomach is simply too full and cannot handle the excessive amount of food.

Lying down or being physically active after eating can cause stomach acid to enter the esophagus. The recommended regimen is to sit quietly for a few minutes after eating to allow digestion to begin.

Stress is also big factor for many people. Stress interferes with normal digestion. Food stays in the stomach longer than it should. Excessive acid is produced. Eating while working, driving or participating in any stressful activity can cause heartburn and indigestion.

Natural Treatments For Heartburn

Let's take a look at the most popular and effective options you have for acid reflux...

Calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) are among the best known natural remedies. Calcium carbonate is the primary ingredient in antacids. A teaspoon of baking soda can be mixed with a cup of water and drank to provide some immediate relief. Many people find that drinking a half cup of milk provides the same benefit and milk is probably better for you in the long run.

Chewing gum can provide some immediate relief for a couple of reasons. First, chewing causes you to produce more saliva, which is something of a natural antacid. Second, swallowing helps to push stomach acid back into the stomach where it belongs and last but not last, mint and other natural ingredients have soothing properties.

Natural herbs are available in tablets, teas and other forms. Some of them may relieve and possibly prevent heartburn when used on a regular basis.

Herbs you might want to try include:

·      peppermint oil (peppermint flavor found in most candies can actually cause heartburn)

·      licorice

·      lemon balm

·      milk thistle (in supplement form, this herb is also beneficial for liver function)

·      German chamomile

·      angelica

·      caraway seed

·      Aloe Vera juice

·      slippery elm

Some specialty natural heartburn remedies contain several of these ingredients. Read the label to be sure what you are getting.

Conclusion: Best Choice for Heartburn

The best choice for heartburn is always a natural approach. Prescription and over-the-counter remedies may initially seem effective but the body can actually respond by producing more acid.

Proton pump inhibitors are accompanied by a risk of nutritional deficiencies. Stomach acid is necessary to break down proteins and other complex nutrients.

For prevention, avoid overeating. Try following a simple eating plan for a while that is low in spicy, fatty and acidic foods. Sit quietly after you eat for at least a few minutes to allow your food to digest. 

When heartburn does occur, try one of the natural remedies mentioned here. These safe alternatives can provide long-term solutions without side effects.