DavidWolfe.comIf you suffer from heartburn, you know how painful it can be. Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night. It often worsens when lying down or bending over. Although heartburn medications are widely prescribed, their safety have questioned.
The most commonly used medications for acid reductions in heartburn are known as proton pump inhibitors. Studies have shown that these medications can result in bone loss and Vitamin B12 deficiency when chronically used. People who take PPIs may also be at a greater risk of heart disease and kidney disease.
With the dangerous side effects of heartburn medication, a natural route may be safer and even more effective. Some lifestyle changes can help reduce heartburn and keep acid reflux at bay.
How To Treat Heartburn Naturally
1. Eat A Banana
Bananas contain natural antacids which can act as a buffer against acid reflux. Try eating one banana each day to keep acid reflux at bay. It’s an alkaline fruit that can help neutralize acid in the stomach.
2. Make Gingerroot Tea
Gingerroot can naturally calm an upset stomach. Making gingerroot tea is a simple way to reduce nausea and prevent acid reflux. Slice 3 quarter-sized pieces of gingerroot and simmer gently in 2 cups of water while covered, for 30 minutes. Remove the ginger pieces than pour the tea into the glass. Drink the tea about 20 minutes before a meal.
3. Consume Mustard
It might surprise you, but mustard is full of minerals. It’s also an alkalizing food that can help neutralize the acid in your stomach and throat. If you feel heartburn creeping up, consume 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard.
4. Drink Chamomile Tea
Drinking chamomile tea about 1/2 hour to an hour before bedtime can help reduce inflammation in your stomach. It’s also a natural remedy to relieve stress, which can trigger acid reflux. Boil 1 cup of water then reduce the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile petals and let them simmer for about 45 seconds. Remove from heat and let the petals soak for 1-2 minutes before straining.
5. Eat Almonds
Almonds have a natural ability to neutralize the juices in your stomach. They can be helpful in reliving and preventing heartburn. Simply eat about 3-4 almonds after every meal.
6. Consume Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used as a base substance to help neutralize stomach acid. It balances the body’s pH levels which can help reduce heartburn and acid reflux. Mix either 1/2 teaspoon or 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of water. Stir well the drink!
7. Consume Aloe Juice
You’ve probably heard of using Aloe to soothe burns. It’s also able to help with heartburn. When your stomach begins to get irritated and inflamed, a glass of Aloe vera juice can help calm it down by reducing inflammation.
8. Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
More acid might seem like the last thing you need when you’re experiencing heartburn. But in many cases, acid reflux is caused by not having enough acid in your stomach. Mix 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar into 6-8 ounces of water and drink. Use this remedy before each meal and before bedtime.
9. Avoid Cigarettes And Alcohol
If you suffer from acid reflux or heartburn, it’s important to avoid cigarettes and alcohol. Nicotine and alcohol both weaken the muscle that allows food into your stomach. This makes it much easier for stomach contents and acid to splash back up into your esophagus. Avoiding cigarettes and alcohol can help relieve your acid reflux and improve your overall health.
10. Keep Your Chin Up
Heartburn often gets worse at night. When you lie down, it’s easier for the digested contents of your stomach to back up into your esophagus. Try elevating your head about 6 inches when you sleep by placing blocks under the legs at the head of your bed. Try not to lie down withing 3-4 hours after eating.
Sources:
Everyday Roots
Mayo Clinic
Everyday Health
PLOS ONE
Home Remedies For Life
Healthline
Healthline
Livestrong