Heartburn or acid reflux is a condition in which a person experiences a burning sensation in the chest and throat after eating. This happens when foods and liquids seep back up the esophagus, injuring its lining and creating unpleasant and sometimes serious symptoms. Eating foods that are gentle on the stomach and encourage good digestion is one way to prevent heartburn, according to EarthClinic.com.
Bananas
Bananas act like nature's antacid according to Health911.com, soothing pain and relieving heartburn symptoms. Dried ground banana can be substituted for fresh, if desired.
Oil of Clove
Oil of clove reduces irritation of the stomach and esophageal lining. Place a few drops of the oil in a glass of water and sip slowly. Since it is so strong, only two or three drops are needed. You can also combine ground cloves in your food.
Lemons
Lemons help to create calcium carbonate, which assists in neutralizing digestive acids and also aids the kidneys in proper functioning, according to Dr. Theodora A. Baroody, author of the book "Alkalize or Die." Squeeze lemon juice into a glass of warm water in the morning or make lemonade. Sweeten with honey.
Mustard
EarthClinic.com suggests trying prepared yellow mustard for pain relief from acid reflux symptoms. Swallow 1 teaspoon to relieve burning pain. Begin slowly with this remedy for reflux, using smaller amounts rather than more until you know whether it will work for you.
Grains and Starchy Vegetables
According to the "The pH Miracle" by Robert and Shelley Young, organic whole grains and starchy vegetables help create and maintain an alkaline balance in the stomach. Try sweet potatoes, plantains and alkaline grains such as millet and amaranth for best results.
Baking Soda
Drugs.com suggests mixing ½ teaspoon of baking soda into 8-ounces of water and drinking for reflux relief. Repeat the drink about every 2 to 3 hours until symptoms subside. This is an effective way to alkalize the system and neutralize excess stomach acids, according to EarthClinic.com.
Honey
Include some raw organic honey in your diet if you have reflux, according to Baroody. Honey is high in potassium and effective at neutralizing acids, reducing pain and soothing the stomach lining.
Pineapple
Promote increased digestion and resolve symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn by eating some fresh pineapple, recommends AcidRefluxCure.net. High in bromelain, a natural digestive enzyme, pineapple can also be consumed as a fresh juice for a quick fix for heartburn and indigestion.
