The best natural remedies for heartburn

The best natural remedies for heartburn

Heartburn – medically known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) – occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (esophagus). Such acid reflux irritates the esophagus and one feels a burning sensation behind the chest. Although GERD is a chronic digestive disease, occasional heartburn can be considered a condition and not a disease if we understand the cause and are therefore able to treat heartburn naturally. Here are some things we can do to reduce and stop heartburn naturally:

When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle responsible for keeping stomach contents in place, begins to relax or leak, it causes heartburn. If we make sure that the valve between the stomach and esophagus does not come loose, we can largely prevent heartburn. Controlling how we eat is just as important as choosing the foods we eat. Overeating, frequent or irregular eating habits, drinking less water, etc. can cause this problem despite maintaining healthy food choices.

1. When we eat more than our stomach can handle, we increase the chances of excess matter entering the esophagus, causing the burning sensation. Likewise, if we don't eat for a long time, it can cause the acid to be pumped into the esophagus and then produce acid and then pack the food into the stomach. In such cases, it is advisable to drink some water to calm the acidic anger in the stomach before eating anything. But more importantly, one should avoid odd intervals of eating and overeating.

2. Weight gain also increases the likelihood of heartburn because it slows the movement of food through the digestive system and puts pressure on the stomach. Taking measures to control your weight can resolve heartburn altogether. A balanced diet at regular intervals and exercise that makes the digestion of food easier not only contribute to weight loss and thus trigger heartburn, but also lead to a healthy lifestyle!

3. Going to bed right after a heavy meal can also cause heartburn. Let the food calm you down and go to bed at least 1/2 hour after eating. If heartburn persists, sleeping with your head in an elevated position also helps.

4. The likelihood of heartburn is higher during pregnancy because the uterus puts more pressure on the stomach and esophagus. The hormone also slows digestion, causing acid to flow to the esophagus. To avoid heartburn during pregnancy, one should reduce the amount of food and cover it up by increasing the frequency. One should also avoid or reduce tea/coffee, fried and spicy food. Although lemon food is good during pregnancy, if it causes acidity, it can be diluted or added with sugar to avoid heartburn.

5. Smoking and drinking alcohol also cause heartburn. Too much alcohol consumption relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and allows acid to enter the esophagus.

6. Age makes the muscle in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weak. In this case, it is helpful to make sure that you choose the right food and eat it at regular intervals. Since the digestive system would also be less active, a balanced diet is important.

7. Avoiding certain foods that cause acidity helps stop heartburn. Excessive consumption of spicy and fried foods, tea or coffee, or lemon fruits and even chocolate can cause acid reflux. You just need to control the acid levels in your stomach so that it doesn't erupt against the lower esophageal sphincter and leave you with heartburn and a grimace.

If the heartburn is persistent, the liver may be affected. One should seek medical help and take care of the liver.

Inspired by Amitav Borah