1 Remedy for Heartburn / Acid Reflux / GERD without Medications
- Baking soda. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water and drink it slowly. Baking soda is a base, and it will neutralize the acid in your stomach.
- Aloe vera juice. Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help to relieve heartburn. Drink 1-2 ounces of aloe vera juice every day.
- Sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps to neutralize stomach acid and protect your esophagus from irritation.
- Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat heartburn. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 8 ounces of water and drink it before meals or at bedtime.
- Eat a banana. Bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help to neutralize stomach acid. Eat a banana before or after meals to help prevent heartburn.
- Stop smoking. Smoking irritates the lining of your esophagus and can worsen heartburn symptoms. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your overall health and to reduce your risk of heartburn.
- Lifestyle changes. There are a number of lifestyle changes that you can make to reduce your risk of heartburn, including:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
- Eating smaller meals more often.
- Avoiding foods that trigger your heartburn, such as fatty foods, spicy foods, and caffeine.
- Not eating within 3 hours of bedtime.
- Elevating the head of your bed by 6-8 inches.
- Quitting smoking.
If you have heartburn on a regular basis, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to help control your symptoms.
Here are some additional tips for preventing heartburn:
- Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
- Don’t eat large meals.
- Avoid lying down right after eating.
- Don’t wear tight clothing around your waist.
- Manage stress levels.
- Get regular exercise.