Heartburn is when you feel a burning sensation in the middle of your chest, which is a symptom of acid reflux or GERD. Luckily, some simple home remedies may help ease this discomfort, like eating ginger, turmeric, or apple cider vinegar.
Dealing with heartburn can be tough. This article discusses home and natural remedies and lifestyle tips to help you understand how to get rid of acid reflux and prevent it from happening in the first place.
About Acid Reflux, Heartburn, or GERD?
Heartburn is a symptom that refers to a burning pain in the middle of your chest, usually starting behind your breastbone and moving up toward your throat.
Source: Heartburn is commonly experienced as a burning feeling in the chest
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid moves up too high in your digestive system. Normally, gravity and your digestive system keep stomach acid in your stomach. But sometimes it can rise into your esophagus, causing irritation, heartburn, or other symptoms.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when acid reflux happens persistently.
How To Get Rid Of Acid Reflux Quickly - Home Remedies
If you're dealing with heartburn, there are several at-home remedies you can try. However, just like medications, supplements, and natural remedies can also pose risks. Some may interact with medications or cause other issues.
It's important to consult with your doctor before attempting any of these options.
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda can help ease occasional heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. To use it, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it slowly.
However, it's essential to use this remedy sparingly and not rely on it too often. It's a good idea to discuss with your doctor about the safe use of baking soda for heartburn relief.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural remedy that may help ease symptoms of heartburn. It contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritation in the digestive tract.
You can incorporate turmeric into your diet by adding it to dishes or drinks. Alternatively, you can take turmeric supplements in capsule form. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before using turmeric as a remedy for heartburn, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications, as it may interact with certain drugs.
3. Ginger
Known for its use in Chinese medicine, it is believed to aid in relieving nausea and may potentially help with heartburn as well.
Source: It helps with stomach emptying and may provide nausea relief.
While ginger can be beneficial, it's essential to use it in moderation. Large doses of ginger may lead to heartburn or other issues, so it's best to consume it in small amounts.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is often used as a home remedy for heartburn. Some people believe that consuming it may improve digestive health.
However, there isn't solid evidence to support this claim yet. Nonetheless, drinking small amounts of diluted apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe. As always, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying any home remedies, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has soothing properties that can help calm irritation in the esophagus and stomach.
Nonetheless, consuming aloe vera juice in small amounts is generally considered safe for most people.
6. Rikkunshito
Rikkunshito is a Japanese herbal remedy that some individuals use to alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
There is some evidence indicating that rikkunshito may be beneficial in treating acid reflux, particularly in children and young people. However, further research is necessary to fully understand its safety and effectiveness
How Can You Prevent Acid Reflux?
To prevent heartburn or reduce its occurrence, you can try several methods:
- Avoid eating right before bedtime: Give yourself at least 2 to 3 hours to digest before lying down to lower your risk of heartburn.
Source: Limit alcohol intake to cut Acid Reflux risk
- Limit alcohol consumption: Cutting down on alcohol or eliminating it from your routine can decrease your risk of heartburn.
- Watch out for trigger foods: Certain foods, such as:
- Spicy foods
- Tomatoes
- Chocolate
- Greasy foods
- Coffee
- Mint
- Acidic foods like oranges and lemons, can increase the risk of heartburn.
Avoiding these foods may help prevent heartburn.
- Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can significantly reduce your risk of heartburn.
- Try relaxation exercises: The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends relaxation strategies for heartburn relief.
- Manage your weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help manage heartburn symptoms.
4 Tips To Support Digestion
Here are additional ways to support digestion:
- Loosen your clothing: Wearing tight clothing can put pressure on your abdomen and hinder digestion. Opt for loose-fitting attire to promote comfort and proper digestion.
- Try not to slouch: Maintaining good posture while sitting or standing can aid digestion by allowing your organs to function optimally. Avoid slouching to prevent compression of the digestive organs.
- Elevate your upper body: Sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated can help prevent acid reflux and promote better digestion. Consider using a wedge pillow or raising the head of your bed to support this position.
- Avoid cigarette smoke: Cigarette smoke can irritate the lining of the digestive tract and contribute to digestive issues such as acid reflux and indigestion. Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke can help maintain digestive health.
Summary
Acid reflux is a prevalent digestive issue characterized by symptoms like heartburn.
While some home remedies may offer how to get rich of acid reflux, their effectiveness and safety remain uncertain, as per scientific research.
Although occasional heartburn is normal, persistent symptoms could indicate an underlying digestive condition requiring medical evaluation and treatment.
