Acidity, heartburn and acid reflux are all names for the same medical condition, characterized by severe pain or burning sensation in the chest or the abdominal area. Other symptoms include sour taste in the mouth, regurgitation of food or liquid and burning sensation that is more commonly observed at nighttime or while lying down.Several factors contribute to the occurrence of heartburn. Stomach or esophageal ulcers, consumption of spicy and oily foods, gastro-esophageal reflux disease etc are just a few of them. Removing or treating the root cause of heartburn is the most sensible way to treat heartburn itself.
Other than antacids and other medications available in the market, various naturally occurring foods also reduce the symptoms of heartburn and in a way contribute to healing. Below are 5 top foods that you must consume if suffering from heartburn, to achieve maximum benefits in a natural way.
Foods To Cure Heartburn
Apples
The best remedy for people suffering from GERD, even a slice of apple can calm down the acid production and reduce burning sensation effectively.They are rich in phytochemicals that increase the strength of the sphincter muscles and do not allow the acid from the stomach to enter the esophagus.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe Vera is known to have benefits for your skin. It acts as a coolant and reduces the inflammation on the skin. Similarly, it also cools down the digestive upset and provides heartburn relief.Extremely beneficial in treating stomach upset and diarrhea, aloe vera also aids relief by killing the helicobacter bacteria that are responsible for acid secretion within the stomach.
Apple Cider Vinegar
About 1 tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar mixed with a small glass of water given to a heartburn patient shows miraculous results in reducing the pain and burning sensation, often within 20 minutes of consumption. It also calms down the stomach troubles and brings about digestive relief. This remedy is a favorite among acid reflux patients.
Oranges And Lemons
Rich in acetic acid and ascorbic acid, both these foods do not allow the formation of strong acids in the stomach. This aids gastric relief and neutralizes the pH of the stomach to an acceptable level. These fruits are also antioxidants and thus, best for treating excess acid content conditions.
Baking Soda
A wonder product that kills the odour in the refrigerators and cleans stains, bicarbonate is also a good home-based remedy that can help you control the acid levels within your stomach and bring about digestive relief. Mix a tablespoon in a glass of water and drink it immediately before the fizzing stops. However, this remedy should be avoided for patients suffering from high blood pressure or those who are on low-sodium diets.
There are some other things you should keep in mind if your suffer heartburn. Reduce your intake of oily and spicy foods, limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking cigarettes. Marshmallows that contain mucilage soothe the lining of the esophagus and calm the acidity of the stomach. Remember that these natural and herbal remedies are often the best options to treat heartburn. Go for antacids only if the condition is too severe.
