Heartburn is one of the prominent internal problems that many youngsters and office professionals are suffering from. The homemade or natural heartburn remedies are widely recommended to keep this problem under control.
Our lifestyle is changing so fast that we, sometimes, tend to undermine our health problems. Heartburn or acid reflux is such a condition that may not be counted as a serious disease, but its effects are not worth ignoring. Many health experts believe that the occurrence of acid reflux at least twice a week is a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in which the burning sensation creeps from chest to throat. There are many prescribed over-the-counter medicines, but the homemade heartburn remedies have a special place. Such natural remedies not only reduce the intensity of heartburn but also do not render any side-effects.
Anatomy of heartburn:
When we eat food, it goes into the stomach through the esophagus. Once the food reaches to stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is closed, preventing the backward movement of the food. But in the condition of heartburn, the LES gets relaxed, resulting in reverse movement of stomach acid towards the esophagus. That’s why we feel a sensation or burn inside. It’s rightly called a reflux, denoting the reverse action digestion system. The homemade heartburn remedies just try to prevent this reflux, so the heartburn gets treated.
Also read:The foods you can rely on when you are sick
Natural heartburn remedies:
Since the change in our lifestyle is not for one day, you have to take a solution of acid reflux that is can be a part of your daily life. Natural heartburn remedies are available all the time and they should be regularly taken to keep a good health. Some of these natural remedies are described here.
• Baking soda
Baking soda works like a neutralizer for the stomach acid. Take just halfa teaspoon of baking soda, dilute it in a half glass of water and mix a few drops of lemon juice – this solution can immediately dispel the reflux of stomach acid. Commonly known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda has a capacity to reduce burn and sensation emanating from the reflux. Please take it once a week, but not without lemon water.
• Improve eating habit
You must know how and when to eat. The haphazard eating habit is a prominent factor for causing heartburn. Avoid overeating, take smaller bites and chew slowly and properly. Food when chewed properly is easier to digest than big and mouthful eating. You have to be punctual with the food and take it only when you feel hungry. Don’t go to sleep immediately after eating. Take 2-3 hours to lay down the food that will reduce the pressure on LES and increase the secretion of acid, helpful for digestion.
• Know what to eat and what not
It’s very important what you eat as the food items are directly related to the condition of heartburn. In order to enhance the effects of natural heartburn remedies, you must make a little change in your diet that will subsequently decrease the risk of the backward flow of stomach acid. The dietary experts recommend low-fat, vitamin-rich and high-protein meals, essential for the overall health.
Those who have GERD are advised to wary of edible items. Stay away from such foods that can trigger acid reflux. There is a long list of the food items that are recommended to avoid heartburn. Some of these items include:
• Foods rich in citric acid, like tomato and tomato-based products
• High-fat fast foods
• Fried or oily foods
• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Garlic and onions
• Soda
• Mint product
• Chew gum
A new research study claims that GERD or chronic heartburn can be relieved by chewing a piece of sugar-free gum for a few minutes. It’s found that chewing gum can stimulate the salivary glands that will increase the secretion of saliva, thereby reflux can be mitigated.
• Apple and banana to reduce heartburn
The natural antacids found in apple and banana can control the intensity of acid reflux. These two fruits are considered among the simplest and most effective natural heartburn remedies. Eat an apple before going to sleep; it will prevent the backward flow of stomach acid.
• Avoid being overweight
The risk of GERD is higher among fat people, and they suffer from the gas problem more than the slim ones. The extra fat added around waistline puts more pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, so that acid reflux becomes stronger over time. It’s better to stay fit and burn those extra pounds for the smooth digestion.
Other practices and homemade heartburn remedies:
• Aloe juice
• Ginger root juice or tea
• Avoid tight fitting clothes
• Avoid smoking and alcohol
• Intake of mustard and raw almonds
• Sleep on your left side
• Address low acid production
Conclusion:
It’s not easy to cope with the fast-paced lifestyle, as it takes a heavy toll on your body. Many people who are doing office works also have to bear shift jobs, and sometimes, its impact is seen in the form of heartburn and acid problem. Even if you don’t have acid reflux, you should take the natural heartburn remedies as a precautionary measure. They are easy to take, and their effects are long-lasting.
Also Read: 8 Amazing uses of cucumber in your diet
