Discover how to effectively relieve heartburn.
Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when acid produced by the stomach rises into the esophagus.
The gastric juices coming from the stomach being too acidic for the walls of the esophagus, one can then have sensations of burning or irritation. When they occur, how to relieve them?
Small gestures applied daily can help you minimize the pain and discomfort associated with gastroesophageal reflux.
•Avoid heavy meals and fatty foods. Foods that are too high in fat increase heartburn.
•Take the time to chew food well to promote digestion.
•Eat dinner 3 to 4 hours before going to bed, because lying down promotes gastroesophageal reflux. Otherwise, raise your head about ten centimeters.
•Don’t exercise after eating because the acid can back up into your esophagus and cause heartburn.
•Do not smoke , it relaxes the sphincter, which causes heartburn when it comes into contact with stomach acid.
•Avoid alcohol , its consumption causes the production of acidity in the stomach.
•Avoid certain foods and drinks .
Some plants are very effective in relieving heartburn.
Among them, lemon balm is known to reduce the production of stomach acids, which helps protect the walls of the stomach and intestines. It can be consumed as an infusion.
The use of licorice root is also effective and recognized by Commission E to treat stomach and esophageal ulcers. It facilitates the formation of mucus which lines the wall of the stomach and protects it against gastric juice.
Due to their high pectin and mucilage content , marshmallow, mallow, elm, mullein, nopal, and plantain are traditionally used to soothe irritations of the mucous membrane that lines the digestive system.
As for essential oils, clementine essential oil , massaged into the stomach and solar plexus, diluted in vegetable oil, helps relieve heartburn. Peppermint and Roman chamomile essential oils also act on acid reflux, but internally. Talk it over with a professional.
Finally, on the spice side, turmeric is a very good antioxidant that helps fight heartburn that can be consumed in powder, infusion or liquid.
Among its innumerable properties, baking soda is also effective in fighting heartburn.
For this, dilute a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water to drink immediately.
A technique to be used with parsimony, however, because it can modify the acid-base metabolism in the event of excessive use.
Several drugs can be administered to reduce gastric acidity:
Antacids , which neutralize gastric acidity in the short term and are therefore to be taken in the event of symptoms, on an occasional basis.
H2 antagonists , which decrease acid production by the stomach. They can be taken once or twice a day, one hour before a meal.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) prevent acid secretion over a 24 hour period. These are the most effective drugs for treating frequent reflux. They can, however, cause side effects if not taken correctly.
You should know that 30% to 40% of people with gastroesophageal reflux continue to have signs of reflux or to be embarrassed despite proper treatment.