Cures for Heartburn

Heartburn is a condition in which you feel a burning sensation in your upper abdomen, up to your throat. When stomach acids come in contact with the lining of a persons esophagus, it irritates the area causing a burning sensation. Some symptoms of heartburn can include a bitter taste in the mouth and the feeling of food re-entering the mouth.

It is very common for people to have occasionally heartburn. The main cause? Spicy and greasy foods. Some other foods that can trigger heartburn are, raw onions, garlic, coffee, alcohol, chocolate and soft drinks. Eating foods that have a lot of acid in them such as, pickles, oranges, grapefruits and lemons can trigger a case of heartburn. Skipping meals or, not eating on time can cause heartburn also. Wearing clothes that are tight around the waist can trigger heartburn as well.

The first thing people reach for when they feel heartburn is an antacid. Antacids are very effective in the treatment of heartburn, and can be bought at any drug or grocery store. Antacids come in liquid form, pill form and a chewable form. They can give quick heartburn relief and it usually lasts for a few hours. If you have heartburn all the time you should talk to your doctor about a prescription antacid to help you.

Drinking ginger ale may help alleviate the symptoms of heartburn. Ginger helps by absorbing stomach acids. Plain white rice will also do the same. Fibrous foods such as lentils and nuts, naturally absorb acid too.

Baking soda works great. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 1/2 cup of water and drink.

Eating smaller, more frequent meals will help to prevent heartburn.

You should wait at least one hour after eating before laying down. Go for a walk instead. The walk will aid in digestion.

Chew a piece of spearmint gum. The increased saliva from chewing the gum will help neutralize acid and spearmint aids in digestion.

Having symptoms of heartburn are not uncommon. If you experience frequent heartburn you should talk to your doctor because it can be something more serious, such as GERD. Keep a diary of all the foods you eat that cause heartburn, and try to stay away from these things. If you have a lot of stress in your life, get rid of it! Stress can cause heartburn as well. Live well, eat healthy and be happy!