If you’re one of the millions of Americans that suffer from acid reflux, eating a big meal sometimes can be scary. While you may know some, many of us never know all the ingredients that may trigger your feelings of pain from acid reflux.
A circular muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) joins your esophagus and stomach. This muscle is in charge of tightening your esophagus after food passes to the stomach.
If this muscle is weak or doesn’t tighten properly, the acid from your stomach can move backward into your esophagus. This is known as acid reflux.
Heartburn actually has nothing to do with the heart. Heartburn occurs in your digestive system. Specifically, in your esophagus. Heartburn involves mild to severe pain in the chest. It’s sometimes mistaken for heart attack pain.
How to get rid of acid reflux
When that happens, here are a few things you can do to make the pain go away–fast.
Chewing gum – Chew a piece of sugar-free gum 30 minutes after eating can help wash away acid.
Licorice – Experts say licorice has stomach-healing properties that can get to the root of the problem rather than just calming symptoms. But be careful – eating too much could have serious side effects.
Baking soda– Mixing a half teaspoon into a glass of water can help neutralize stomach acid. But it shouldn’t be used for chronic heartburn because it’s high in salt.
Slippery elm – Research suggests that adding a couple of tablespoons of this herb to a glass of water can help coat and protect the stomach.
Aloe – This plant can reduce inflammation in the stomach. Some experts suggest drinking aloe juice, but use caution because it can also be a laxative. Use only 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
Mustard – Mustard is an alkalizing food. Because of its alkaline properties, it will help neutralize the acid that may come creeping up your throat. This can neutralize the pain of acid reflux. It seems to be the most helpful if you’re feeling a bout of heartburn creeping up, or if you’re in the midst of one. Just take one teaspoon of good quality yellow mustard straight to the head.
Ginger – Ginger root powder can be more effective for acid reflux problems than many over-the-counter medications. For optimal acid reflux treatment, use a teaspoon of the freshly grated root each day. You can put it in your smoothie or drink it every morning.
Probiotics – Hundreds of clinical studies have shown that probiotics can prevent and treat hundreds of common ailments, including acid reflux problems. Take one probiotic a day to really remedy your acid problem.
Bananas and Apples – Bananas contain natural antacids that can act as a buffer against acid reflux. If you want to try out the simplest home remedies for heartburn first, try letting a few bananas ripen up nicely and eating one every day.
