Posted on July 22, 2008 in Common Ailments
In case you suffer from gas, burning pain, bloating and belching then don’t worry as you’re not alone. Statistic reports say that more than half of adults suffer from heartburn. But the major question arises here is what is heartburn and what are the possible causes? Heartburn can be also called as acid indigestion or acid reflux. And remember it has nothing to with your heart.
Heartburn mainly occurs when your stomach acid flows back up in your esophagus. This action results in a burning pain behind your breastbone and into your neck and throat. Generally this back flow of stomach acid is regulated by a muscle called as sphincter which separates stomach and esophagus. But in case of acid reflux condition this circular muscle becomes weak and loses its ability to retain acid in stomach.
In case you suffer frequently from heartburn pain then here are some natural remedies for heartburn which can make your life comfortable:
- Eat Less but More Often: 4-6 small and light but frequent meals in a day are considered to healthier than 3 large meals. It is better to avoid stuffing yourself.
- Avoid Late-Night Snacking: It is advisable to avoid eating before going to bed. After eating better to avoid lying down for at least 4 hours.
- Think Bland: Fatty and spicy dishes will irritate your stomach lining and esophagus hence it is better to stick to simple and less spicy food. Some of the worst offenders are tomato products, peppers and onions.
- Choco-holics Beware: According some diet experts chocolate and chocolate drinks are one of the major causes of heartburn.
- Avoid Citrus Fruits and Juices: According to a survey conducted on 400 heartburn sufferers, grapefruit juice caused more heartburn as compared to any other beverage. Grapefruit juice was closely followed by orange juice and tomato containing juice. The main reason for these juices to act as irritant is that they contain high acid content.
- Avoid After-Dinner Mint: Besides giving you refreshing breathe after dinner peppermint and spearmint also gives you heartburn.
- Chew Your Properly: Remember the more you chew, the more acid neutralizing saliva your mouth produces. Take small bites and chew your food slowly and thoroughly. It is better to chew a sugarless gum after eating your dinner.
- Watch What You Drink: Cut down on tea, coffee, whole milk and alcoholic beverages as they tend to irritate your stomach lining.
- Time is Important: Drink liquids about an hour before or after meals to keep your stomach from bloating. Don’t mix foods and liquids.
- Avoid Tight Clothes: Avoid wearing tight clothes and belts that fits tightly around your stomach. Go for clothes that fit loosely at your waistline.
In case these natural remedies for heartburn and acid reflux fail it is advisable to consult your physician for medication.
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