5 Methods for Fast Heartburn Relief

For those who experience heartburn, you know how uncomfortable the sensation can be and how quickly you want it to disappear. Most people would describe heartburn as a burning sensation in their chest or even throat.

Heartburn typically occurs after eating, and can last from a few minutes up to several hours. For those on the lookout for fast relief outside of the standard antacids, we have 5 methods you can try at home for quick heartburn relief.

1.  Prevention.

Sometimes heartburn can be prevented. For those who are aware of what triggers their heartburn, you already know what food or beverages you should be avoiding. Common heartburn-inducing items include red wine, chocolate, peppermint, tomatoes, coffee, soda, tea, citrus fruits, garlic, raw onions and spicy foods. If you find that you tend to experience heartburn after consuming one of these, or any other food, then it may be best to take a break from that food/drink and see if your heartburn symptoms are relieved. If you find that avoiding certain food and drink helps with your heartburn, then keeping them out of your diet or reducing your intake will certainly help.

2.  Chew-chew-chew.

If you are unaware of what causes your heartburn, or if you just had to have that spicy dish, then grabbing a pack of gum is one way to relieve your discomfort. Studies have shown that chewing gum about half an hour after your meal helps clear out acid from your GI tract and can reduce any burning you may feel in your chest or throat.

3.  Consider your clothing.

Tight, restrictive clothing and heartburn do not mix. Consider wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing when eating foods that tend to cause heartburn.

4.  Drink your baking soda.

Adding a small amount – about a teaspoon – of baking soda into a glass of water and mixing it in can create an easy heartburn remedy. This method of heartburn relief is not recommended as a long-term solution, as baking soda contains salt, but adding a little into your water when you feel heartburn starting can help reduce your discomfort.

5.  Sit up straight.

If you’ve just had a large meal, it’s easy to recline in a comfortable position and relax for a period of time. However, laying down after a meal can increase the risk of experiencing heartburn. Try sitting or standing upright in the hours after a meal in order to minimize or alleviate any discomfort.