Acid reflux, or heartburn, affects over 60 million Americans and a little more than 20 percent of the population as a whole. If you’ve ever been really hungry at a cheap diner, you’ve probably experienced the brutality firsthand shortly thereafter. You have a burning sensation slightly above your solar plexus, a piercing pain atop your abdomen. You feel a little queasy, a little sick to your stomach, as the acid in your stomach rises up your throat. We’ve all been there, and it’s not the best place to be. Luckily, there are quite a few ways to calm the storm in your belly and put heartburn in the rear view.
Baking Soda
As a chemical base, baking soda (also known as sodium bicarbonate) can help decrease acidity in your stomach and provide some relief. Simply mix half a teaspoon to a teaspoon in a glass of water and drink it down. However, don’t use this remedy too often, as the high salt level of baking soda can cause other health issues.
Chewing Gum
A study found that chewing gum for half an hour after eating helped relieve heartburn symptoms in people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Chewing gum causes an increase in saliva that helps flush acid from your stomach. Just pick your favorite flavor, and keep a pack of gum handy for after meals. Choose sugar-free to prevent causing problems of the dental variety.
Aloe Vera
Most people are familiar with aloe vera as a natural remedy for sunburn and other burns, but it has great effects on the digestive system as well. The aloe soothes inflammation in your gut and throat just as it does with burning skin. Take half a cup of aloe juice before meals, and be sure to look for products that specify they are non-laxative.
DGL Licorice
While consuming too much licorice candy can cause side effects like high blood pressure, DGL licorice, available in tablet form, does not. Licorice has been known as a natural health booster for the digestive system. If you don’t like the taste, DGL licorice tablets are available in other flavors, too.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm has a long history of use as a natural medicine for digestive troubles. It helps form a protective layer against the lining of your stomach, preventing the acid that causes heartburn from starting trouble. Take a few tablespoons mixed into a cup of water after eating and before bed. Slippery elm is also available as a pill or lozenge.
Chamomile
The Mayo Clinic advocates chamomile to treat acid reflux associated with GERD. Try a supplement, tincture, or tea. While studies have yet to prove the benefits, chamomile has been a traditional remedy for tummy troubles for centuries. Just check with your doctor to be sure it won’t interfere with any medications you take.
Bitters
Any bartender is familiar with this trick—bitters, specifically Swedish bitters, are a quick remedy to tamp down heartburn. One to three tablespoons will get the job done. While bitters are often taken after trouble starts, you can make it a preventive measure by downing the mixture 15 minutes before meals.
Whichever of these remedies you happen to have in your cabinet, you’re sure to find relief. Or maybe there are a few products you can add to your shopping list so you’ll be prepared to deal with heartburn head-on next time it strikes.
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[Source: Bewell, Health, Healthline, Healthline, Healthline, WebMD]
