If you dread the end of a meal due to heartburn or acid reflux, you’re not alone. But it’s not just the discomfort that is the issue – severe cases can lead to further issues such as esophageal cancer.
If you are finding that medication isn’t working for you, try some of these simple home remedies for some relief.
Licorice
Eat a small amount of plain black licorice to help relieve symptoms of heartburn. Licorice can help with many digestive system issues such as stomach ulcers.
Aloe vera juice
Visit your local health food store where you can purchase aloe vera juice to keep in the fridge at home. The natural healing properties of aloe vera can offer some soothing relief.
Sitting up
It’s very natural to lay down after a big meal, but this can actually make your heartburn symptoms worse. Give yourself a few hours to digest your meal before getting horizontal. It may help to eat dinner earlier so that you have enough time to digest before bed.
Baking soda
Mix a teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of water, and drink to relieve heartburn pain. Use this method sparingly as it can cause a stomach upset if used too much.
Chewing gum
When you chew gum, you swallow more often which helps to keep reflux symptoms at bay.
Avoid exercise
Don’t get your heart rate up too much after eating either, as exercise can lead to heartburn.
Adjust your bed
Pop a couple of books under the legs of the top of your bed so that your head and shoulders are higher than your feet. This can help alleviate heartburn and reflux.
Ginger
A natural anti-inflammatory, ginger is often used as a way to treat gastrointestinal issues. Try it in your cooking, or make yourself a cup of ginger tea after eating.
Find triggers
Some people know what causes their heartburn (such as caffeine, wine, chilli or citrus), so this can be an easy way to avoid the pain starting in the first place. You could also try keeping a food diary to see if you can pinpoint what is causing your discomfort.
Get comfortable
Try to avoid clothing that is too tight or uncomfortable, as this can exacerbate your heartburn.
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