Free Article: Natural Remedy for Heartburn

You are here:
Directory | Heartburn |

For Medication-Free Relief, Try a Natural Remedy for Heartburn
By M. A. Fulmar

Heartburn affects most Americans at one point or another in life, but for some the painful symptoms of heartburn can become a frequent or even chronic problem. If you are one of the many who experience heartburn on a regular basis, the good news is that there are a number of natural remedies for heartburn that you can try to find relief from your symptoms. While all of the natural remedies for heartburn that are listed are merely general suggestions for diet and lifestyle changes that can alleviate symptoms, by trial and error you may find a method to more pain-free days from your own heartburn. Most of these modifications can be made quite easily, and the results may be effective for a better quality of life.

Dietary Changes

There are some general foods that are known contributors to heartburn symptoms, and you may find your own natural remedy for heartburn by simply avoiding one of the foods on this list. If you don't see effective relief through any of the suggested diet modifications, you can keep a food diary that will give you a better indication of which foods in your own diet tend to precede your heartburn symptoms. Some of the known culprits include citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and tomato products, onion, garlic, alcoholic and carbonated beverages, chocolate, peppermint, and foods high in fat. Once you are armed with your list, you can begin eliminating the suspicious foods one by one to determine which diet changes will be the most effective as a natural remedy for heartburn.

Lifestyle Modifications

It is not only what you eat that is significant in curbing the painful symptoms of heartburn, but also when you eat it. Try to avoid meals in the two to three hours before bedtime, since lying down after eating will make it easier for stomach acids to creep back up into the esophagus. When you do go to bed, elevating the head of your bed four to six inches will help to ensure that you wake in the morning symptom free. It is also a good idea to avoid exercise after a meal, although regular exercise can also be an effective natural heartburn remedy. If certain types of exercise seem to bring on your symptoms, talk to your doctor or personal trainer about better choices in your exercise program. Smoking is another culprit in causing or exacerbating heartburn symptoms, so here is another good reason to kick the habit.

Finally, find ways to relax and alleviate stress, since this stress can contribute to the factors that cause heartburn. Sucking on hard candy (as long as it is not mint) can also curb symptoms by increasing the saliva in the mouth that can act as a natural barrier to the digestive acids. Keep your clothing loose around the middle, since binding the stomach too tightly can also contribute to symptoms. By systematically checking off the natural heartburn remedies on your list, you can be on the road to less pain and more symptom free days.

Author Details:
M. A. Fulmar, copywriter for various websites including, Acid Reflux and The A to Z of.

Article Source: Top Health Articles

NOTE: This article may be reproduced ONLY if the author details, source and ALL links remain in place and active.

Related Heartburn Articles:

See also: Acid Reflux