Having occasional heartburn attacks is quite common for most individuals. Heartburn, which is also known as pyrosis, is a burning or painful sensation in the esophagus that is commonly caused by the regurgitation of gastric acid. This condition is noted to be one of the causes of mimic asthma and chronic cough.
Heartburn is oftentimes falsely associated with heart disease or condition like heart attack. In fact, it has really nothing to do with the heart. Some people think as such for the burning sensation is felt at the breastbone, the spot where the heart is located.
Causes of heartburn
Certain foods and drinks
1. Chocolate
2. Spicy food
3. Sodas (carbonated beverages)
4. Citrus juices and fruits
5. Garlic
6. Wine
7. Tomato sauces
8. Peanuts
Psychosomatic causes
1. Fatigue
2. Stress
Drugs
1. Cocaine
2. Caffeine
3. Alcohol
4. Tobacco
As enumerated above, the causes of heartburn are generally linked to the improper or too much intake of foods that do not give good effects to the body. If one is suffering from heartburn, a doctor will immediately recommend the most common treatment, which is Antacids. This medication will surely neutralize a persons acidity in the stomach.
Moreover, treatments for those who have chronic heartburn attacks vary, including endoscopy. The said test further analyzes and determines the true cause of the condition. This way, patients will know if there are other complications associated with their heartburn attacks.
Avoiding heartburn
It is not necessary for one to shell out a lot of cash just to seek treatments for heartburn. In fact, those who suffer from this condition can get effective remedies for heartburns from the very comfort of their homes.
1. Eat as many apples as you can.
Just like what the famous rhyme says, An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Yes, eating apples is a good way of treating heartburn. A person can eat as many apple as he can without having to worry about any detrimental side effect. Experts claim that an apple effectively neutralizes acid inside the body. Plus this delicious fruit is known to be rich in vitamins and minerals, thus, helping the body to become fit and healthy.
2. Drink Aloe Vera juice or distilled white vinegar.
Aloe Vera juice is one of the most common natural remedies for heartburn. One is sure to have instant relief to heartburn with just a few ounces of this juice. This juice is widely available at local supermarkets and food stores.
As for distilled white vinegar, some people regard this as a great natural cure for heartburn. Once the burning feeling begins to well up, one should drink a tablespoon of this vinegar to immediately ease the pain of heartburn.
3. Avoid foods that can trigger heartburn.
Probably the best way to avoid heartburn attacks is to simply refrain from eating too much foods that are known to trigger the said condition. Maintaining a healthy diet as well as eating in moderation will surely keep one from having heartburn problems.
Here are some heartburn-safe recipes for you to enjoy:
- Chicken Breasts with Pears and Zinfandel (minus the shallots)
- Baked Apple Delight
- German Soft Pretzels
- Honey-Ginger London Broil (minus the onions)