Quick Help for Heartburn

Heartburn, or acid reflux, occurs when acid from the stomach comes up the esophagus, causing a painful burning sensation. Over time, this acid can wear away the lining of the esophagus, leading to further health complications. Fortunately, there are several remedies for alleviating heartburn and acid reflux quickly. To prevent heartburn in the future, try eating healthier foods and getting regular exercise.

Antacids

• Take over-the-counter antacid tablets to get rid of heartburn quickly. Experiment with different brands of antacid until you find one that works quickly and keeps heartburn from coming back. Only take antacid tablets as indicated in the directions.

Baking Soda

• Mix 1 tsp. of baking soda with a glass of water, and drink, to help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from acid reflux. Be careful with how often you use this particular remedy, since baking soda is very high in salt.

Papaya

• Eat some papaya fruit or swallow a papaya tablet when heartburn starts. Enzymes in the papaya make it an effective remedy against heartburn. Fresh, canned, or dried papaya will provide fast-acting relief. Many health food stores also carry chewable papaya tablets that will work as well.

Apple Cider Vinegar

• Mix 1 tsp. of vinegar with half a glass of water and drink. It won't taste very good, but it will help with heartburn problems. Apple cider vinegar has the benefit of balancing the pH in the stomach, so it can reduce painful acidity.

Barley Grass

• Drink a glass of barley grass daily, as it is both a heartburn remedy and a preventive strategy. Wheat grass and chlorella will also work.

Chamomile Tea

• Drink a warm glass of chamomile or peppermint tea after a meal to aid in digestion and reduce the likelihood of acid reflux. Even when heartburn has already begun, a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea can help settle the stomach and reduce acid reflux.