Heartburn can be mild or severe, acute or chronic. It is a burning sensation that occurs when the acids in the stomach back up into the esophagus, the tube through which food enters the belly. According to the National Library of Medicine, if you suffer from heartburn more than twice a week, you may be experiencing the symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This is a much more serious condition requiring medical attention. However, occasional heartburn can be prevented and treated with certain foods. In the long run, these options can save you money on bottles of antacids.
Eat More Fiber
According to Home Remedies for Heartburn, fiber helps prevent heartburn by binding together the stomach acids in the stomach. To be effective, the foods should contain 5 grams of fiber or more. Some high fiber foods include oatmeal, broccoli, spinach, apples and berries. The recommended daily intake of fiber, according to the Institute of Medicine, is 38 grams for men and 25 grams for women ages 50 and younger. For men and women over the age of 50, the recommendation is 30 and 21 grams.
Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
Some people suffer from heartburn due to the fact that their stomachs do not produce enough acid. On the other hand, some people have systems which are too alkaline (acidic). In either situation, apple cider vinegar may help restore the correct balance needed to prevent heartburn from occurring.
You can mix 1 to 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar in 8 oz. of cold water and sip slowly with your meal, or drink this mixture shortly before your meal; this stimulates the production of your digestive juices, resulting in a reduction of stomach acid. If heartburn wakes you up at night, you can make your concoction and sip it down; relief should fall upon you within minutes.
Enjoy a Baking Soda Cocktail
According to the experts at the website Diet Result, baking soda is one of the most effective, non-prescription treatments available for heartburn. Baking soda neutralizes the stomach acids responsible for the rotten burning sensation you feel churning as it rises into your chest and esophagus. To make, mix 1 tsp. of baking soda into a glass of warm water, generally an 8 oz. glass.
Caution should be used though; using more than 1 tsp. can be detrimental to your body due to the large amounts of sodium it contains.
