Natural Heartburn Relief
Heartburn is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite this, many people do not fully understand what heartburn is and how to manage it effectively. They are vaguely aware of the symptoms of heartburn, which seem to reflect their pains, but can’t be sure: what does it actually feel like? Keep reading for an introduction into the fundamental facts of heartburn, explore food and drinks that cause it, and a list of heartburn symptoms. We’ll also discuss natural remedies to alleviate discomfort and promote digestive health.
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn, also referred to as acid indigestion, acid reflux, or pyrosis, occurs when stomach acid moves back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Heartburn often sets in after eating, especially when consuming certain trigger foods or beverages (see common trigger foods below!)
The lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular valve, is typically to blame. You can think of it like a door to your stomach. When you eat, the “door” opens to allow the food and liquid to pass into the stomach, promptly shutting after. The problem occurs when your lower esophageal sphincter isn’t operating properly and remains open long after you’ve finished eating, providing a way for stomach acid to splash back up into the esophagus, known as acid reflux.
Occasional heartburn is normal and common, however frequent and severe episodes may point to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition that requires medical attention. If you suffer serious periods of heartburn twice or more a week, potentially coupled with regurgitation of food, difficulty swallowing, coughing and/or wheezing, see a medical professional to inquire about GERD.
Trigger Foods & What Causes Heartburn?
Several factors can contribute to the development of heartburn. Above we touched on it stemming from inadequate performance by your lower esophageal sphincter, but certain foods and lifestyle habits will often aggravate heartburn.
Foods that Cause Heartburn:
Spicy foods- Hot sauce
- Black pepper
- Raw garlic & onion
- Chips
- Red meat
- Whole-milk dairy products
- Fried or deep-fried foods
- Tomatoes
- Citrus fruits
- Vinegar
- Caffeinated drinks
- Carbonated drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tomato & citrus juices
Lifestyle Habits That Cause Heartburn:
- Eating too fast
- Over-eating
- Eating too close to bedtime
- Lying down right after a meal
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Being overweight
List of Heartburn Symptoms
The most-known symptom of heartburn, the one you may have heard popularly touted, is a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This is often joined by regurgitation of acidic stomach contents. Other common symptoms may include:
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Asthma-like symptoms, particularly at night
If your symptoms are severe, persistent, and frequent, please consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions like GERD or Barrett's esophagus.
However occasional heartburn can be soothed, and natural heartburn remedies are readily available.
Natural Remedies for Heartburn
There’s hope! Several natural remedies can help alleviate heartburn symptoms and improve digestive wellness. These remedies aim to neutralize stomach acid and soothe irritation. Here are some effective options:
Frutin Gastro Gel
If you’re looking for how to get rid of heartburn fast, this is your answer. Based on patented pectin, Frutin™ from New Nordic is a breakthrough antacid foam tablet. It creates a foam when it comes in contact with acid, neutralizing it and thereby effectively and quickly relieving you from heartburn. The unique power of Frutin Gastro Gel is revealed when the magnesium and calcium carbonate in their formula, which offsets excess acid, actually binds to the patented citrus pectin. Together, they create a foamy gel in your stomach that rises to physically limit the acid reaching your esophagus.
With Frutin™, you can limit acid reflux while simultaneously promoting a healthy pH level in your stomach, so there is no hindrance to proper food digestion. This is not common in other antacids.
Frutin Gastro Gel from New Nordic is safe for both pregnant women experiencing heartburn, and those who suffer from GERD. However, in these instances, please consult your healthcare provider first and follow dosage recommendations.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Even though it is acidic, which we previously warned against, small doses of apple cider vinegar mixed with water can help balance stomach acid levels. It might also ease the symptoms of heartburn and enhance digestion.
Baking Soda
As a short-term heartburn remedy, a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water can function as an antacid, neutralizing stomach acid. However, use of baking soda should be limited because overuse can cause electrolyte imbalances.
Aloe Vera Juice
Renowned for its calming qualities, aloe vera juice can aid in reducing esophageal inflammation. A little aloe vera juice consumed before meals may help you avoid heartburn.
Lifestyle Modifications
On top of utilizing natural remedies, altering one's lifestyle can greatly lessen the frequency and intensity of heartburn. Heartburn episodes can be proactively circumvented by avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, keeping a healthy weight, and engaging in stress-reduction exercises like yoga or meditation.
Conclusion
If left untreated, heartburn can have a major negative influence on quality of life. One can effectively manage their heartburn and maintain digestive wellness by being aware of its causes, symptoms, and the natural remedies for heartburn available. Experience less discomfort from heartburn and better digestive health with the right care and lifestyle changes. If symptoms persist and escalate in severity and frequency, one should consult their medical practitioner.
