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10 Ways to Relieve Acid Reflux and Heartburn
The condition of acid reflux is also commonly known as heartburn. This is a condition that is characterized by the inflammation of the esophagus, caused by the backing up of food from the stomach into the esophagus. This food is partially or mostly digested and usually has a high acidic content, which causes pain and/or discomfort in many people.
Several treatments have been used successfully in the fight against heartburn (acid reflux). Some of these forms of treatment include one or more of the following:
1. Baking Soda and Water: Usually a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in a glass of water will help most people, since it neutralizes excess acidity. This is one of the most natural ways to cure heartburn/acid reflux.
2. Alka-Seltzer: This is a tablet that dissolves in water that is taken orally as a liquid. This product has a similar effect as baking soda and water. It can be purchased at a pharmacy or grocery store without a prescription.
3. Pepto-Bismol: This is a liquid medication that is taken orally to help alleviate the effects of heartburn. This is available without a prescription.
4. Clear Soda (such as Sprite or 7-UP): The carbonation in clear sodas can help to relieve the acid buildup in a person's stomach and can also help a person to release gas.
5. Tums: These are tablets that come in chewable form which contain calcium carbonate, an ingredient that helps relieve symptoms of upset stomach and heartburn. It is termed an antacid.
6. Prescription Medications: Those who need relief from chronic heartburn (acid reflux) can consult a doctor or other qualified health care professional. They may prescribe more potent or different medications than those sold over-the-counter in stores. They will also provide instructions on how to take these.
7. Exercise: Those who engage in regular exercise will also find relief from heartburn in many cases. Usually it is good to do a variety of aerobic and anaerobic movements. Examples of an aerobic exercise involve fast-paced step exercises and dance movements, as well as jogging, stair climbing, and bicycling. Types of anaerobic exercise include weight and resistance training and stretching exercises. More information can be found about specific exercise programs that can help people.
8. Diet Changes: If heartburn sufferers want relief, they may need to alter their diets.
9. Heat or Feet Pillows: Heartburn sufferers can also prevent or relieve acid reflux, particularly at night, if they raise their head or feet with pillows, or other object (such as a bed wedge). Propping up of the head usually works best since gravity can help keep food from creeping upward into the esophageal area.
10. Relaxation: If people take time to rest and relax, they are able better able to reduce the amount of stress that could lead to poor choices. For example, it could reduce a person's desire to consume large amounts of alcohol which can certainly aggravate the pain and discomfort associated with heartburn.
There are also remedies for acid reflux other than the ones described above. There are many published guides on how to lessen or eliminate heartburn. Guides regarding diet and exercise can also be found quite easily. The fastest and easiest way to find these articles is to do a site search or to search in your favorite Web browser.
About the Author: Jacqueline Courtiol, M.A. Ed. is a teacher, mother and business owner. Jacqueline has authored numerous articles on topics of childcare, natural health, parenting and pregnancy. She is also the co-developer of Colic Calm, a natural homeopathic formula for relief of acid reflux in infantsand colic. More information can be found at http://www.coliccalm.com or contact us if you have questions.
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