Natural Cures for Heartburn & Acid Reflux

Acid reflux and heartburn are common, and symptoms usually develop after eating a meal. In many cases, symptoms are mild and disappear on their own. But in other cases, acid reflux and heartburn can become a chronic condition, wherein sufferers seek medical attention. There are different ways to control acid reflux and heartburn. And while many people rely on medications, there are natural ways to cure this annoying problem.

Symptoms

Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux; and acid reflux develops when stomach acid back flows or travels up the esophagus. There's a valve (LES) between the stomach and esophagus that opens to allow food and liquids to pass into the stomach. In the case of acid reflux, this valve involuntarily opens and acid leaves the stomach. Aside from heartburn, symptoms of acid reflux include coughing, a sore throat, lump in the throat, nausea and vomiting.

Lose Weight

To naturally treat heartburn and acid reflux, it's vital to maintain a healthy body weight--especially in the mid-section. Extra weight can cause pressure in the abdomen. This extra pressure pushes stomach acid into the esophagus, and acid reflux and heartburn can occur. Eat a low-fat diet, reduce your caloric intake and strive to reduce your body weight.

Eliminate Certain Foods

Chart your symptoms and identify foods that trigger heartburn and acid reflux. Common trigger foods include citrus foods and beverages, alcohol, caffeine, tomato products, fried foods and fatty foods. Symptoms typically develop shortly after eating certain foods. However, eliminating these foods from your diet may alleviate your symptoms.

Stay Upright After Eating

Although it's tempting to lie down after eating a big meal, taking a nap or lying down can trigger acid reflux and heartburn. Stay in an upright position for two to three hours after eating. This gives your food and liquids time to digest, and you're less likely to develop symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.

Sleep With Your Head Elevated

If you commonly experience acid reflux and heartburn during the night, elevate the head of your bed to prevent stomach acid from traveling up the esophagus. Sleeping with two or more pillows is ineffective. You'll need to purchase a wood or concrete block, and raise the head of your bed by six to nine inches.