All Natural Heartburn Cures

Heartburn is not a condition of the heart, but a pain and burning sensation felt in the chest somewhere below the breastbone. The pain and burning sensation is not limited to the chest only, as it may spread to the neck, throat and jaw. Before we discuss the GERD diet and other effective natural heartburn cures, it is important to know what the causes are.

The food that we eat reaches the stomach through a tube-like structure known as the esophagus. Once in the belly, food is prevented to flow back to the esophagus by a circular muscle at the intersection of the stomach known as the lower esophageal sphincter or LES. If there is a defect in the structure of the sphincter, any weakness in the esophageal muscle or if there is excess buildup of acid in the stomach, a back flow of stomach acids in the esophagus may occur. These acids cause inflammation on the lining of the esophagus resulting in heartburn.

The most humble of all natural heartburn cures is a glass of water that should be consumed in the beginning of any symptoms. Water will cleanse the acids from the esophagus and push them back into the stomach. Fruits like papaya, banana and almonds are other effective natural heartburn remedies. Fresh papaya is recommended for patients suffering from heartburn since it contains an enzyme known as papain that helps in digestion. Bananas coat the stomach thereby protecting it from gastric acids and also act like a natural antacid hence providing relief. Almonds contain oils that neutralize acids as well.

Vinegar is a base and can be used to neutralize these gastrointestinal acids though it can damage tooth enamel if it is consumed frequently. Sodium carbonate is one of the natural cures for heartburn that can be used for swift relief although it can raise blood pressure if used excessively. Aloe Vera juice and licorice extract are other natural heartburn cures. Aloe Vera juice has a healing effect on the intestinal tract while licorice extract has anti-inflammatory characteristics beneficial for both stomach and esophagus ulcers.

On the other hand, chemical medicine should not be left behind in combating this problem. Antacids, omeprazole, alginates, etc., are usually prescribed to provide heartburn relief. However, such medications can have side effects in the long run.

 

 

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