That burning feeling behind your breastbone after eating may be acid indigestion. Also called heartburn, acid indigestion is the painful sensation that results from stomach acids backing up into your esophagus and your throat. If you suffer from frequent heartburn, see your doctor to rule out an underlying disorder; but if you experience the symptoms of acid indigestion only occasionally, you can use some home remedies to ease the discomfort and to reduce your risk of future attacks.
Immediate Relief
While lifestyle changes may be a long-term remedy for acid indigestion, when the burning strikes, you want immediate relief. Over-the-counter antacids are available, or you can make your own antacid by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water. Because baking soda is high in sodium, don't use this remedy if you're on a restricted salt diet.
Loosen the waistband of your pants to relieve pressure on your stomach. A tight belt or jeans can push on your stomach, encouraging the acids to back up in your esophagus.
Drink a glass of water. Water dilutes the stomach acids and may reduce the intensity of the burning. In addition, by sipping a glass of water, you will wash down stomach acids and soothe esophageal tissues.
"Prescription for Natural Cures" recommends sipping cabbage juice to neutralize the sting of stomach acids. Aloe vera juice, pineapple juice and slippery elm tea may also ease an acid indigestion attack. Chamomile tea, green tea and liquid calcium may offer relief as well.
Diet
Since acid indigestion is the result of stomach acid production, avoiding foods that trigger an attack is a good idea. While you may have a different food trigger, some foods commonly cause heartburn in many individuals.
Limit saturated fats associated with processed foods, fried foods, thick sauces and red meat. Other common food triggers include chocolate, spicy foods, mints, coffee and alcohol.
In addition to planning what you eat, schedule your meals at least three hours before bedtime and chew each mouthful thoroughly before swallowing. Lying down before your meal digests encourages stomach acids to back up. By chewing your food completely, your stomach needs less acid to break down and digest food.
Lifestyle
Being overweight increases your risk of acid indigestion, so talk to your doctor about a healthy exercise and weight loss plan for long-term heartburn relief.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Alternative Medicine: Indigestion
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, MD, Mark Stengler, ND; 2004
- Family Doctor.org: Heartburn
