Are you looking for home remedies to relieve heartburn? Heartburn, commonly known as acid reflux, can be really uncomfortable, making you feel like there’s a burning sensation in your chest. Though medications are available, you might also find relief using some home remedies. From sipping on aloe vera juice to chewing gum, these home remedies can help you say goodbye to that burning feeling.

Why Do You Get Heartburn?

When stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, it irritates the lining and creates a burning feeling in your chest. So, why does this happen? Well, factors like overeating, lying down right after eating, or consuming spicy and fatty foods can trigger this condition. Additionally, some people are more prone to it than others.

What Gets Rid Of Heartburn Fast At Home?

Try Chewing Sugar-free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva production, which can help dilute and wash away stomach acid. Opt for a sugar-free gum and chew for about 30 minutes after meals.

Stay Upright After Eating

Gravity plays a big part here. If you lie down right after eating, stomach acid can flow back easily. So, try to stay upright for at least two to three hours after meals.

Adjust Your Sleep Position

Believe it or not, the way you sleep can impact your heartburn symptoms. Try sleeping on your left side. This position can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into your esophagus, giving you a more peaceful night.

Elevate the Head of Your Bed

Raising the head of your bed by about 6 to 9 inches can stop stomach acid from creeping back up. You can use blocks or bed risers for this. It’s a simple adjustment but can make a world of difference.

If elevating the whole bed isn’t an option, a wedge pillow can also do the trick. By lifting your upper body, the pillow helps keep stomach acid where it belongs— in your stomach.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, adjusting your sleeping position and elevating the head of your bed can be effective ways to manage heartburn symptoms, especially during the night.

Sip Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties. Having half a cup of aloe vera juice before meals can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from heartburn.

Drink Ginger Tea

Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects and can help balance your stomach acid levels. Make a cup of ginger tea and sip slowly to ease your discomfort.

Baking Soda Water

Another quick fix is mixing a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drinking it. This neutralizes the acid and provides quick relief. Yet, be careful not to overdo it, as too much baking soda can cause other health issues.

Sip on Apple Cider Vinegar

Some people find that a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in a cup of water can balance stomach acid and relieve heartburn. But beware, this remedy isn’t for everyone and might make symptoms worse for some.

Skip Spicy Foods

Though tempting, spicy foods can ignite your heartburn. If you’re prone to this condition, it’s best to avoid them.

Limit Fatty Foods

Similarly, fatty foods can aggravate heartburn. Stick to lean proteins and veggies to keep the fire at bay.

Try a Spoonful of Mustard

Believe it or not, taking a spoonful of mustard can help in alkalizing your body and counteract the acid. Opt for natural, organic mustard for the best results.

Consume Almonds

Almonds are alkaline in nature and can balance your stomach acid levels. Just eating a handful after meals can bring relief.

Drink Coconut Water

Coconut water is alkaline and helps neutralize stomach acid. Plus, it’s super refreshing!

Avoid Late-Night Eating

Eating too close to bedtime allows less time for digestion and can trigger heartburn. Aim to finish eating at least three hours before you plan to hit the sack. This gives your stomach ample time to digest, reducing the risk of acid flowing back up.

Drink More Water

Water is a great neutralizer. It helps dilute stomach acid and assists in digestion. Make a habit of sipping water throughout the day, and you might notice a decrease in heartburn episodes.

Sleep on Your Left Side

You might not think your sleep position matters, but sleeping on your left side can actually help reduce heartburn. This position helps to keep your stomach below your esophagus, making it harder for stomach acid to flow back up.

Stop Smoking and Avoid Alcohol

Both smoking and alcohol can irritate your digestive system. They can increase stomach acid production and weaken the muscle that keeps acid in the stomach. Kicking these habits can have a dramatic impact on reducing your heartburn.

Use Slippery Elm

Slippery elm has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including heartburn. You can find slippery elm lozenges or tea for easier consumption.

Eat Smaller Meals

Overeating often triggers heartburn. So, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large ones.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help manage the symptoms of heartburn, but be sure not to exercise immediately after eating, as this can trigger symptoms.

Herbal Teas

Peppermint and chamomile teas are both known for their soothing properties. They can help ease digestion and relieve heartburn symptoms.

Keep a Food Diary

Take note of what foods trigger your heartburn. This will help you avoid them in the future.

Try Licorice Root

Licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease heartburn symptoms. You can find chewable licorice tablets or drink licorice tea for relief.

Go Bananas

Bananas have natural antacid properties that can help soothe your stomach. Eating a ripe banana can offer you relief from that uncomfortable burn.

Opt for Oatmeal

High in fiber, oatmeal helps absorb stomach acid and aids in digestion. Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal can provide a buffer against heartburn later on.

Use Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and can relieve heartburn symptoms. But stick to a small amount, as too much acidic juice could worsen symptoms.

Parsley for Relief

Parsley has been used as a traditional remedy for indigestion for centuries. Adding some fresh parsley to your meals or sipping parsley tea might help you avoid heartburn.

Cold Milk

Cold milk can act as a buffer, providing temporary relief from heartburn. It’s not a long-term solution, but it’s worth a try.

Opt for Melon

Melon, like bananas, has natural antacid properties. Eating a few slices can offer relief from heartburn symptoms.

Chew Basil Leaves

Basil leaves contain compounds that stimulate stomach mucus production, which can help reduce acid levels. Chewing on two to three leaves can bring relief.

Fennel Seeds

These seeds are known to improve digestion and relieve heartburn symptoms. You can chew a teaspoon of these seeds or boil them in water and drink the water after it cools down.

Consider Carrot Juice

Carrot juice is alkaline and can neutralize acid. Drinking a glass of carrot juice might give you the relief you’re looking for.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothes can put pressure on your abdomen, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back up. So, if you’re struggling with heartburn, it might be time to ditch the skinny jeans and opt for something more comfortable. Wearing loose-fitting clothing around your stomach can lessen the pressure and potentially reduce heartburn episodes. Wearing less restrictive clothing can be an easy but effective way to alleviate heartburn symptoms.

Further Reading: Understanding and Managing Heartburn