Natural remedies for heartburn

The heartburn , despite not being a condition of a serious nature, it is very uncomfortable for the sufferer. It causes a burning sensation in the stomach that rises to the larynx . Generally, the cardia, the area of ​​the stomach that is closest to the esophagus, remains closed while digestion is taking place. However, in certain cases this valve relaxes, allowing gastric acids to pass into the esophagus and giving rise to this condition. Today we will see in eHealth the best natural remedies to combat heartburn and alleviate its symptoms.

It is worth noting that heartburn is very common, especially among the adult population. The truth is that practically everyone at least once in their life has suffered from it. However, there is a certain percentage of people who suffer from heartburn permanently; In these cases, the action of the acid can damage the tissues of the esophagus, leading to diseases such as cancer.

Causes of heartburn

As the experts explain, the causes that explain heartburn are all those that somehow favor gastroesophageal reflux.

Several studies have established a direct relationship between heartburn and being overweight or obese. In the same way, in some cases this condition is caused by a poor diet , such as the consumption of excessively seasoned foods. It is also due to bad habits, such as lying flat right after eating.

Heartburn is more common in patients with hiatal hernia . A disorder characterized by the fact that the upper part of the stomach becomes lodged in the thorax. It is estimated that it affects around 20% of the population, and heartburn is precisely one of the most frequent symptoms; In general, it is accompanied by others such as bad breath, swallowing problems or abdominal pain.

Symptoms

In relation to the symptoms of heartburn, the most common of all is the burning sensation , which is generally located just behind the sternum.

In addition, it is very common for patients suffering from this condition to present what is called gastric fullness after meals, even without having ingested a large amount of food; the feeling of being very full is known as such. Also what is called regurgitation, the sensation that food rises to the mouth.

Diagnosis

In those cases in which heartburn occurs in a timely manner, there are a series of very effective natural remedies, which help to minimize the symptoms to a great extent. If heartburn occurs frequently, it is recommended to see a doctor.

The doctor first takes a medical history of the patient, based on the symptoms presented, as well as their general health. If you suspect a certain digestive system disorder , you can request an endoscopy.

The endoscopy is a diagnostic technique that is used both for diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the upper part of the digestive system; that is, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It is performed through an endoscope, a flexible tube that is inserted through the mouth and advanced through the upper intestine; a camera is incorporated at one of its ends, which allows the doctor to see the upper intestine in real time.

Tips to avoid heartbur

The truth is that there is no 100% foolproof method to avoid heartburn. However, there are a number of tricks that are worth remembering.

• Each person knows his body better than anyone. Thus, if after eating a certain food or drink you feel heartburn, it is best to avoid it. It is common for some people to feel that burning sensation after consuming alcoholic and carbonated beverages, as well as coffee, citrus fruits and spicy foods.
• After each meal, it is not advisable to lie down in a horizontal position for two or three hours . Otherwise, food puts pressure on the sphincter, which can be damaged and weakened, leading to heartburn.
• In the same way, after eating it is not advisable to do medium or high intensity physical exercise . However, it is advisable to walk at a leisurely pace.
• Dinner should be very light since otherwise it is more difficult to digest, and, in addition, it delays digestion.
• At bedtime, it is convenient to do so with the head raised about 15 centimeters from the rest of the body. To do this, if the bed allows it, it is best to raise the headboard. Using more pillows is not the best option because the neck and neck may suffer.

Best home remedies for eartburn

As we have pointed out, this is a very common condition, characterized by a burning and burning sensation in the stomach. Well, to control heartburn there are a series of home remedies, made with 100% natural ingredients, which work very well to deal with heartburn.

Apple vinager

One of the most popular and effective heartburn home remedies out there. Apple cider vinegar helps to significantly improve the acid content in the stomach.

And it is that, some investigations have indicated that this problem occurs by having little acid in the stomach. Thus, to improve the condition, it is recommended to take a tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar dissolved in a large glass of water.

Sodium bicarbonate

The sodium bicarbonate has a number of properties that help neutralize the stomach acids , especially when given the burning feeling.

Preparing and applying this home remedy is very simple. You just have to dissolve half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water, stir with a teaspoon, and drink immediately.

It is a remedy that is not recommended to consume on a regular basis, but only in those cases in which heartburn has led to a series of symptoms that are difficult to bear.

Lemon and honey

Lemon helps regulate the pH of the stomach . For its part, honey is a natural heat and anti-inflammatory. Thus, lemon juice and honey is one of the most effective home remedies to deal with heartburn.

For its preparation, the juice of a lemon is mixed with water in equal parts. Then, half a teaspoon of honey is added and drunk. The most advisable thing is to take this remedy a couple of times a day.

Ginger root

One of the most beneficial natural ingredients for the general health of the body. Ginger root helps to block acid and also helps in preventing ulcers in the stomach.

To take full advantage of its properties, it is best to consume a ginger tea; To do this, you just have to bring water to boil and add two or three slices of ginger. Then, it is allowed to rest and it is taken about twenty minutes before the meal.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a wonderful ingredient since it allows you to naturally combat different ailments such as heartburn or inflammation.

To make this home remedy, you just have to prepare an infusion of cinnamon. Then, a little honey is added to enhance its effects, and it is sipped in small sips while it is still warm.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the medicinal plants with a greater number of properties for both the skin and the body. In the case of heartburn, it helps significantly to minimize inflammation of the stomach , thus contributing to the relief of symptoms.

It is best to drink half a cup of aloe vera juice before a large meal, which can lead to this condition. It is not recommended to drink aloe vera juice on a regular basis as it has a laxative effect.

Papaya

The papaya is a fruit that contains papain, a digestive enzyme very beneficial for the health of the digestive system ; In addition, it helps to greatly reduce burning. It is highly recommended to alleviate the symptoms of common disorders such as constipation or gastritis, among others.

It is enough to eat a piece of papaya every morning to enjoy its benefits in relation to heartburn.

Chamomile

Another of the natural ingredients with the greatest number of properties and benefits for the digestive system is chamomile. Soothing and anti-inflammatory , it is one of the most popular natural remedies for treating heartburn.

To prepare chamomile tea, the flowers of this plant are added to boiling water and stirred for a few minutes over low heat. Then it is left to rest and, when the infusion is warm, strain and drink.

Conclution

Heartburn is a very common condition among the adult population. As we have pointed out, it can occur in isolation; or along with other symptoms such as bloating or intestinal reflux.

It occurs more frequently after the consumption of certain foods or very large meals. In addition, heartburn is more common in certain population groups, such as the elderly and pregnant women .

In those cases in which it is a temporary condition, the home remedies indicated in the previous point are very effective in alleviating symptoms. If the heartburn persists, it is best to see a doctor to rule out any type of serious disorder.