Heartburn is a common digestive problem, which can be prevented. The build-up of acidity causes heartburn, which is an uneasy feeling and is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Suman Agrawal, nutritionist and founder of Selfcare, Mumbai tells us that food is not the only reason for heartburn and acidity. She also shares home remedies for this digestive problem and ways to prevent heartburn.
What is Heartburn?
Suman Agrawal explains, “Acidity of heartburn (a ‘burning sensation’ in the upper chest area and near the throat), is caused by the presence of excessive acid in the stomach and/or when stomach acids are pushed upwards. Acidity usually occurs due to erroneous eating habits or incorrect postures or pressure in the abdominal area.”
Heartburn is also known as pyrosis, cardialgia, or acid indigestion.
Mix the juice of about half a lime or 1 tbsp of lime juice and honey in a glass of warm water and drink this, first thing in the morning.
If you don’t like lime and water, soak 7 – 8 yellow raisins (munakkas) in water overnight and have it first thing in the morning. Raisins have high alkaline properties and balance the acid in the body when consumed.
Eat a banana daily – it has protective action against acidity and heartburn. It also keeps you satiated throughout the day.
Chewing on basil (tulsi) leaves provides immense relief, if you are suffering from nausea and gas. Tulsi also improves immunity and fights off common cold.
Cold milk works wonders for many and it is a natural remedy that one can use to prevent acidity.
Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 tsp of aniseed (Saunf) to it. Cover this and leave it overnight-strain the water in the morning, add 1 tsp of honey and drink this mixture, three times a day.
Heartburn prevention:
If you must have your morning cuppa, make sure you brew the tea leaves instead of boiling them. Boiling tea powder releases strong acids that can cause heartburn.
Chew slowly, do not overeat or eat fast. It is important to break down the food for easy digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Stress triggers the overproduction of stomach acids. If stress is causing your acidity, work on getting your stress levels down through regular meditation, deep breathing and exercise.
Most people feel discomfort when they lie down after a meal – if you must life down after a meal then always lie on your left side.
Avoid late night eating and choose your food wisely. Choose fruits, which digest easily. Also, since digestion takes time, it is better to avoid late night snacks.
Avoid tight clothing such as tight belts, waistbands and panty hose that apply pressure on the stomach, as these may worsen your symptoms.
Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, spicy and fried food. These are the most common causes of heartburn and a combination of these foods can make it worse.
Eat small meals more often and avoid a long gap between meals. An empty stomach results in an increase of acids in the stomach. This repeated pattern results in digestive disorders.
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