What are the Foods to Ease Acidity From Heartburn?

Heartburn Triggers to Avoid & Remedies That Work

Certain foods can cause heartburn because they relax the oesophageal sphincter and slow down digestion, which makes food stay in the stomach longer. Foods that are high in fat, salt, or spices are the main ones included:

• Fried foods
• Fast food
• Processed snacks
• Chilli powder and pepper
• Fatty meats like bacon and sausage
• Cheese
• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate
• Peppermint
• Carbonated drinks

Keep reading to learn more about heartburn home remedies, lifestyle tips and treatment.

What are heartburn home remedies?

Many individuals seek antacids to relieve heartburn, but some foods can also help relieve heartburn symptoms naturally. Here are a few you might consider:

• Milk: Milk is commonly believed to help with heartburn. Nonfat or skim milk can temporarily coat the stomach lining and neutralise acid, which offers quick relief. Also, low-fat yoghurt works similarly and also contains probiotics that help digestion.
• Ginger: Ginger is known for its natural medical properties and is one of the best foods for digestion. It has alkaline and anti-inflammatory properties which can calm irritation in the digestive tract. So, try drinking ginger tea when you feel heartburn.
• Lemon Water: Lemon juice is acidic by itself, but when you mix a small amount with warm water and honey, it can have an alkalising effect in the body, which may help neutralise stomach acid. Honey also contains antioxidants that help protect healthy cells.

Therefore, always consult with your doctor before trying home remedies for heartburn.

What are the lifestyle tips to reduce heartburn?

Along with watching what you eat, certain lifestyle habits and medications can help control heartburn:

• Take antacids or other acid-reducing medicines, but do not overuse them.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• If you smoke, try to quit.
• Do not overeat and eat slowly.
• Avoid eating for at least 3 hours before bedtime.

If you have frequent or severe acid heartburn, talk to your healthcare provider immediately. They will prescribe stronger medication or give you personalised advice as per your condition.

How To Treat Heartburn?

Several medications can help reduce heartburn symptoms, which are as follows:

• Antacids: These neutralise stomach acid and provide quick and short-term relief.
• H2 Blockers: These prescription medications lower the amount of acid in your stomach.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):PPIs reduce stomach acid production and are available only by prescription from the healthcare provider.

If lifestyle changes and medications do not help, a healthcare provider may recommend surgery.Some treatments can be done using an endoscope, a thin tube passed through your mouth into your stomach.

Even though heartburn can be irritating, it usually gets better with the right diet, natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and medication if necessary. Including soothing foods like yoghurt, nonfat milk, ginger, apple cider vinegar, and lemon water in your diet may help relieve symptoms naturally. It is important to consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, especially if you experience frequent or severe heartburn. Taking care of your digestive health today can help you feel better and prevent future discomfort.