Heartburns contrary to what many people think is a symptom rather than a disease. It is a symptom of Gastroesophageal reflux disease or “acid reflux” which is caused when the acid produced in the stomach leaks out and seeps back into the oesophagus or food pipe.
It often starts as a slight hiccup, followed by a burning sensation in your chest and throat. It may be triggered by the foods you eat, particularly spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. It can also be that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic condition with many potential causes.
Whatever the cause, there are ways to avoid and treat heartburn strikes:
Chew gum
Sounds ridiculous but according to an article published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology and Therapeutics, chewing gum for half an hour after meals is one way to reduce heartburn as it stimulates saliva production and swallowing which helps dilute and clear stomach acid from your oesophagus.
Mix baking soda with water
You may not have to see a doctor after every heartburn strike as you would most likely have a remedy at hand in your kitchen, without even knowing it. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it slowly as this would help neutralize your stomach acid.
Try ginger
According to a post in Harvard’s Healthbeat, ginger has been used as a folk remedy for heartburn for centuries.
To make ginger tea, steep raw ginger root, dried ginger root, or ginger tea bags in boiling water.
Sip apple cider vinegar
A recent study found that taking diluted apple cider vinegar after a meal helps reduce heartburn for some people. Dilute the apple cider vinegar with water and drink it after your meal.
See a doctor if symptoms persist to prescribe medications or other treatments.
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Credit: Happiness Nleweoha