Tired of reaching for antacids? These natural remedies can help ease your heartburn symptoms without relying on medication.
Chew sugar-free gum after meals
Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and flush it back down into the stomach where it belongs, easing heartburn symptoms.
Take a light walk after eating
A gentle walk after meals doesn’t just aid digestion – it also significantly reduces reflux episodes and can improve the effectiveness of acid-reducing medications, according to clinical studies.
Practice belly breathing to strengthen your valve
Diaphragmatic breathing (also known as belly breathing) strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that prevents stomach acid from moving up into the esophagus.
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Add papaya to your diet
Papaya contains papain, a powerful digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins.
This tropical fruit acts as a "functional food" and can ease indigestion and heartburn symptoms naturally.
Sleep on your left side
Due to the shape and position of your stomach, lying on your left side during sleep keeps the connection between the stomach and esophagus above the acid line, reducing nighttime reflux.
Cut back on alcohol and e-cigarettes
Both alcohol and the chemicals found in e-cigarettes can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for acid to rise into the esophagus.
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Reducing use can lead to noticeable relief.
Lose excess weight if needed
Excess body weight puts pressure on the stomach, which can push acid into the esophagus.
Shedding extra pounds can dramatically reduce or even eliminate heartburn symptoms.
Avoid tight clothing
Tight pants and belts increase abdominal pressure and can push stomach acid upward.
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Wearing loose-fitting clothes is a simple yet effective step toward preventing reflux.
Eat smaller portions
Large meals stretch the stomach and increase acid production, raising the risk of reflux.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals helps minimize pressure and keep acid levels in check.
Don’t lie down right after eating
Lying flat after a meal gives stomach acid a free path into the esophagus.
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Waiting 2–3 hours before lying down or going to bed can prevent post-meal and nighttime heartburn.
This article is based on information from Hindustantimes.com.
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