Heartburn medications like Zantac have been removed from shelves for containing dangerous levels of a known carcinogen. Instead of resorting to pharma-backed medications, natural cures for heartburn exist.
What is heartburn?
The sensation of heartburn is caused when acid from your stomach goes back up your esophagus. It occurs when the ring of muscle that allows food into your stomach relaxes when it shouldn’t. Even though there are medications available to purportedly alleviate this, these medications are not always safe, as in the case of the recently recalled Zantac.
A number of natural and very effective remedies also exist.
1. The “right” sleeping position
Sleeping on your left side can greatly reduce heartburn due to the shape of the stomach and the angle of connection to the esophagus. Lying down with a full stomach can also press the stomach contents against your lower esophagus. It's recommended to wait 3 - 4 hours after eating before lying down. You can also elevate your head about 6 inches by putting books or bricks under the feet of your bed.
2. The right kind of food in the correct amounts
Avoid food that triggers heartburn, like high-acid food and spicy food. It’s important to take small bites and chew well so as to help your stomach with digestion.
3. Enough acidity
If you don’t have enough acid in your stomach, acid reflux can occur. Heartburn is merely a symptom of acid reflux. In many cases, acid reflux is caused by not having enough acid in your stomach. Before each meal, mix 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar into 6 - 8 ounces of fresh water, and drink it. If you feel it worsens your reflux, do not continue as it's not the correct reason for your heartburn.
4. Eat an apple a day
To prevent discomfort, you can eat an apple a few hours before bedtime because apples contain natural alkalizing minerals. Ripe bananas can also help for the same reason.