Heartburn is a condition wherein one experiences a burning pain in the chest, just behind the breastbone. It occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This occurrence of the stomach acid flowing into the esophagus is also referred to as acid reflux.
The condition can be triggered by overeating, alcohol, spicy food, or even tight clothing worn constantly. Luckily, there are some home remedies easily available in the kitchen that are effective in treating heartburn.
Ginger
Ginger has incredible healing properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is a great digestive, thereby preventing the formation of gas that could cause heartburn. You can consume ginger by sipping on tea infused with it or have some crushed ginger with honey.
Vegetable juice
Contrary to popular opinion, broccoli and the like are essential to your diet. While consuming vegetables is good, the juice of one can be great to treat your acid reflux. Potato, celery, and cabbage have an alkaline base which helps balance out the stomach acid levels.
Some fruits like papaya can also be consumed. Papain, a digestive enzyme in papaya, helps break down the protein and has a wonderfully soothing effect on the stomach.
Fennel seeds
Fennel seeds are known to be fiber-rich, and hence relieve constipation, and other digestive problems, including the formation of gas. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe the muscles in the intestines. Anethole is the component in fennel that helps in this healing process.
Buttermilk
Fermented milk can also help in reducing your acid reflux symptoms. You may drink ½ a cup of cold buttermilk to soothe the heartburn. It is advised to include this in your regular diet if acid reflux is a recurring condition.
Yogurt
Yogurt, again, is alkaline and can be used to balance out the acid levels in your stomach. It is a food rich in probiotics which supports the growth of good bacteria in your stomach, in turn supporting healthy digestion. Adding one bowl of yogurt to your daily diet is a good way to avoid any heartburn symptoms.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is in general used by many to control blood sugar, weight loss, and even as a skin remedy. This fermented vinegar made from apples has no serious side effects and works for many people. This ingredient can be used for a mild case of acid reflux. You can take it by mixing one tablespoon of ACV into a glass of water and consuming it either before or after your meals.
In addition to these, some of the simple steps you can take to avoid heartburn are to eat a healthy diet and to avoid lying down right after your meals. Eat at least 3 hours before bedtime, and also stay away from fatty and spicy food that could trigger this condition.
While this is a common condition, you should consult a doctor to rule out any underlying disease as a cause, if it recurs more than twice a week.
