13 Tips & Natural Remedies for Heartburn

Heartburn is the term used to describe the uncomfortable burning sensation that can occur directly behind the breastbone that usually edges up the throat. It’s really more of a symptom than a disease, the cause being acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the ring of muscle that allows food into your stomach (the lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes at a time when it should not be relaxing. This results in some of your stomach acid going back up your esophagus, which causes the feeling of heartburn. Acid on the throat doesn’t sound good, right?

Heartburn can be quite the annoyance and severe heartburn can hurt your health. Today, we are going to tell you some home remedies that you can use to diminish or even eliminate the heartburn altogether. These remedies are natural, contain no medications, and most should be suitable as heartburn remedies even if you are pregnant. (Of course, ALWAYS consult your physician before introducing any new supplement to your diet.)

List of Natural Supplements for Heartburn Relief:

1. Calcium (This is the active ingredient in most OTC antacids.)
2. Iberogast (made with herbs including: caraway, milk thistle, licorice, greater celandine, angelica, clown’s mustard plant, and lemon balm)
3. Slippery Elm (lines the esophagus and stomach, healing the tissue and easing the effects of the acid)
4. Marshmallow Root

Tips to Ward Off or Relieve Heart Burn, Even in Pregnancy:

1. Eat smaller meals frequently and don’t drink too much while you are eating.
2. Eat a ripe banana every day. There are natural antacids in bananas that can serve as a buffer against acid reflux. The same is true for apples. Slice a raw apple and have it a couple hours before going to bed.
3. Avoid eating a few hours before bed.
4. Have a piece of sugar-free gum after your meal. Chewing gum for 30 minutes can ward off heartburn.
5. Sit upright for at least 60 minutes after eating.
6. Sleep propped up or on your left side.
7. Avoid foods that make your heartburn start or get worse. Foods that often do this are: carbonated beverages, spicy foods, chocolate, acidic foods, caffeine, fatty foods and citrus fruits.
8. Wear comfortable clothes: nothing too tight that would constrict the stomach and push the acid up.
9. Eat each bite slowly and chew your bites thoroughly.

What are your tips for alleviating heartburn?