Fight the heartburn with natural remedies

Heartburn, characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, is a common discomfort experienced by many. While over-the-counter medications are available, several natural remedies can provide relief. Here's how you can alleviate heartburn using simple home methods: 

Why it works: 

Baking soda is alkaline, which helps neutralize stomach acid temporarily. However, use this remedy sparingly, as frequent use can lead to an imbalance in the body's pH levels. 

Caution: Avoid this method if you have high blood pressure, as baking soda contains sodium. 

2. Ginger Tea 

Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, including heartburn. 

How to use: 

• Steep a few slices of fresh ginger in hot water for 10-15 minutes to make ginger tea. 

• Drink it warm, preferably before or after meals. 

Why it works: 

Ginger helps relax the muscles of the esophagus and reduces acid reflux, alleviating heartburn symptoms.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar (in small doses) 

Some individuals find that consuming small amounts of apple cider vinegar can reduce heartburn symptoms by balancing stomach acidity. 

How to use: 

• Mix 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water. 

• Drink before meals. 

Why it works: 

For some, heartburn may result from low stomach acid, and apple cider vinegar can help restore the proper balance. However, this method may not be suitable for everyone, so monitor your body's response. 

4. Chewing Gum 

Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce heartburn symptoms.

How to use: 

• Chew sugar-free gum for 20-30 minutes after meals.

Why it works: 

Increased saliva production helps wash acid back into the stomach, providing relief from heartburn. 

5. Aloe Vera Juice 

Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties and can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, providing relief from heartburn. 

How to use: 

• Drink 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice before meals. 

• Ensure you're using a variety suitable for consumption. 

Why it works: 

Aloe vera soothes the esophageal lining and reduces inflammation, alleviating the burning sensation associated with heartburn. 

Bananas coat the stomach lining and prevent acid from rising into the esophagus, reducing heartburn symptoms. 

Tips to Prevent Heartburn 

In addition to these remedies, making simple lifestyle changes can help prevent heartburn: 

• Avoid Trigger Foods: Spicy, fatty, and acidic foods are common culprits.

• Eat Smaller Meals: Overeating increases pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. 

• Wait Before Lying Down: Allow at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. 

• Elevate Your Head During Sleep: Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can prevent stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. 

When to Seek Medical Attention 

While occasional heartburn is common, frequent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you experience persistent discomfort, consult a healthcare professional.

Източници: 

• Panahi, Y., Khedmat, H., Valizadegan, G., Mohtashami, R., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Efficacy and safety of Aloe vera syrup for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a pilot randomized positive-controlled trial.. Journal of traditional Chinese medicine = Chung i tsa chih ying wen pan, 35 6, 632-6 . https://doi.org/10.1016/S0254-6272(15)30151-5. 

• Moazzez, R., Bartlett, D., & Anggiansah, A. (2005). The Effect of Chewing Sugar-free Gum on Gastro-esophageal Reflux. Journal of Dental Research, 84, 1062 - 1065. https://doi.org/10.1177/154405910508401118. 

• Khandare, B., Kshirsagar, S., & Bhujbal, N. (2019). In-vitro Gastric acid percent neutralizing potential of household remedies verses marketed antacid preparation: A case report. Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics. https://doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v9i4-s.3271. 

• Panahi, Y., Aslani, J., Hajihashemi, A., Kalkhorani, M., Ghanei, M., & Sahebkar, A. (2016). Effect of Aloe Vera and Pantoprazole on Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms in Mustard Gas Victims: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 22, 190-194. https://doi.org/10.15171/PS.2016.30. 

• Fitzgibbons, L., & Snoey, E. (1999). Severe metabolic alkalosis due to baking soda ingestion: case reports of two patients with unsuspected antacid overdose.. The Journal of emergency medicine, 17 1, 57-61 . https://doi.org/10.1016/S0736-4679(98)00123-1.