How to Get Rid of Heartburn

Heartburn can be caused when the digestive juices in our stomach back out into the esophagus. Since these juices are corrosive, they can cause discomfort when they back up. The esophagus, however, has no such lining and therefore it burns and causes discomfort. Heartburn can be caused by overeating. Usually eating heavy spicy food can cause this problem. However, there are some people who suffer from heartburn even though they are very careful about what they eat. For such people it is essential that they take certain precautions about what they eat. One of the first things to remember is that you should not overdo when you eat. When you overeat the acids in the stomach are forced up into the esophagus. Another possible reason for this is that people tend to eat very fast. The combination of too much food eaten too fast can cause problems. After over eating you are sure to lie down but this is not advisable. Lying down actually makes the acid rise up in your throat. Sitting up will actually make you feel better. If you have to lie down you should elevate your head by at least six inches. You can add a couple of pillows so that the heartburn does not return.

Food that should be avoided includes coffee and tea. The caffeine in these drinks is actually harmful for someone suffering from heartburn. You should definitely avoid eating chocolate, tomatoes, alcohol or wine. Smoking too should be avoided. You will find that sipping slowly on a glass of warm water helps reduce the burning in your throat and also helps you get rid of the uneasiness. There are several home remedies which can provide you temporary relief. You can mix a teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink this. For a long term solution to this problem you should think of losing weight. Overweight people are more likely to get heartburn. For this reason it is a good idea to lose weight as soon as you can. Another practical remedy is to eat small meals. Most of us tend to eat three large meals. Instead, doctors advise that we should eat several small meals. This actually ensures that the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter is reduced. As a result there are fewer chances of the valve opening and the acid from your stomach washing up into your esophagus. Wearing tight clothes can also cause heartburn and so you should wear loose, comfortable clothes.