Heartburn: Cause and Treatment

Unlike the stomach, the esophagus has no protective lining and succumbs to acid. Stomach acids are forced up into the esophagus when the belly is full with food.  Of course, there can be many reasons for heartburn, but for the occasional sufferer, the cause is usually eating too much food and too fast.

Some helpful tips: 

• Do not lie flat or recline. If you do, you will have gravity working against you.  Stay upright. According to Francis S. Kleckner, M.D., gastroenterologist, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, water does not travel uphill, nor does acid. When you lie down, elevate the head of your bed, or add another firm pillow under your head, in order to raise your head four to six inches.
• Take an antacid. Any over-the-counter antacid, such as Maalox or Win-Gel will bring fast relief from occasional heartburn.
• Do not drink milk. It stimulates acid secretion in the stomach.
• Avoid chocolate, beer, wine, alcohol, and tomatoes. Stay away from fizzy drinks, hamburger, cheeseburger, fatty meats and dairy products.
• Relax. Stress can cause an increase in acid production.
• Natural Remedies:
• There are a number of herbs that are reputed to fight heartburn.  The following are some of the herbs that can help:
• Ginger-roots;  Bitters (used for may years in parts of Europe); Aromatic herbs, such as catnip and fennel.

Apple cider vinegar which is outside the herb family is touted as a remedy for heartburn.  One teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in half a glass of water is a remedy for heartburn and should be sipped during a meal.  It definitely works.

Occasional heartburn is a common problem but when it happens often, you should see your doctor.