Heartburn occurs when acid from your stomach backs up into your esophagus causing a burning sensation in your throat and/or down the middle of your chest. Acid reflux is a condition in which you experience frequent heartburn two or more days a week. While many over-the-counter and prescription medications exist to treat and prevent the heartburn and acid reflux, there are some natural remedies that work as well. As with any medical problem, however, you should seek medical advice from your doctor before trying any at-home remedy.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Drinking a solution of water and apple cider vinegar with meals may help your acid reflux symptoms. Just mix 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar with 4 oz of water and sip to prevent heartburn. If you are already experiencing heartburn, drink 2 to 3 tbsp. of the vinegar to ease the burning and resolve the attack.
Ginger Root
Ginger root is an herb that absorbs stomach acid. To treat current reflux symptoms and prevent future ones, take one ginger root capsule a day, immediately after eating dinner. Ginger root capsules can be found in most health food stores. In addition to ginger root capsules, you can also chew on candied ginger for added heartburn treatment and prevention. Like the capsule, chew on the candied ginger immediately after eating.
Papaya Enzymes
Papaya enzymes are available in pill form and can be found in most health food stores. Papaya enzymes are reported to aid in the digestion process and decrease the incidences of acid reflux. Papaya enzymes are also known for their use as anticoagulants, or blood thinners. For that reason, you should consult your doctor before taking papaya enzymes as they may cause an increased risk of bleeding in an irritated stomach or esophagus.
Gum
Chewing gum is another way to treat the burning of acid reflux. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva. Saliva is an acid buffer. The more saliva you produce, the more saliva you swallow. Swallowing the saliva helps to push the acid back down into your stomach where the acid can be neutralized. Chew gum after meals to get the most benefit from this remedy. Sugar-free gum is the best choice as it is not harmful to your teeth.
