**Heartburn Remedies: Natural Ways To Manage Symptoms**

Heartburn, a form of uncomfortable indigestion, affects millions of people every day, yet is largely preventable and treatable. Roughly 20 percent of adult Americans put up with painful heartburn or acid reflux symptoms on a recurring basis — and more than 60 million yearly.

In April 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for retailers in the U.S. to pull the popular over-the-counter heartburn medication called Zantac from store shelves. Although Zantac has been used by millions of people for years to reduce acid reflux and heartburn symptoms, according to available research reviewed by the FDA, the drug may contain a probable human carcinogen.

Here’s the good news: Not only are there other medications that can safely be used in Zantac’s place, but you can also benefit from simple natural heartburn remedies that often work quickly to correct the underlying causes of this digestive problem.

### What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is defined as “a form of indigestion felt as a burning sensation in the chest, caused by acid regurgitation into the esophagus.” This condition is related to acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These digestive issues are sometimes referred to simply as “indigestion.”

Heartburn and more chronic forms of GERD are two of the most common health conditions affecting Americans despite the availability of simple lifestyle or even medical intervention options.

### Symptoms

The most common and noticeable heartburn symptoms include:
– Burning sensations and pain in the chest
– General discomfort in the upper abdomen or below the breastbone
– Stomachaches shortly after eating, feeling like stomach acid is “churning”
– Pain that seems to move up from the stomach first and can reach as far up as the throat
– Regurgitation or having the sensation of acid backing up into your throat or mouth
– Sour and bitter tastes in your mouth
– Feeling overly full
– Belching, burping, and feeling nauseous (symptoms of dyspepsia)

### Causes

Although the name implies it would involve the heart, heartburn is primarily caused by digestive problems like stomach acid regurgitation into the esophagus. It doesn’t actually have much to do with one’s cardiovascular system.

It was named “heartburn” because some of the symptoms — like pain and throbbing near the breastbone and heart — are similar to those that would occur when someone is having a heart attack. In fact, some people actually suffering a heart attack mistakenly think that they’re dealing with heartburn and don’t rush to the emergency room!

### Remedies

Many of the causes of heartburn can be fixed by trying heartburn remedies like changing your diet, avoiding overeating, and better controlling stressors. Here are several natural remedies to try before relying on medications:

1. **Eat Smaller Portions, Spaced Throughout the Day**
– Overeating puts a high amount of pressure on the stomach. When the body senses that you’ve eaten a large amount at once, stomach acid production is turned up to facilitate digestion.

2. **Use Natural Supplements and Herbs**
– Chamomile, marshmallow root, slippery elm, ginger, and probiotics have been shown to help alleviate heartburn symptoms.

3. **Avoid Trigger Foods**
– Certain foods and beverages are known to trigger heartburn symptoms in some people. Spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomato-based products, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and fatty foods should be avoided.

4. **Manage Stress**
– Stress can exacerbate digestive issues like heartburn. Finding ways to manage and reduce stress can help improve overall digestive health.

5. **Stay Hydrated**
– Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help dilute stomach acid and reduce the risk of heartburn.

By incorporating these natural remedies and lifestyle changes into your routine, you can effectively manage and reduce heartburn symptoms without relying on medications like Zantac. Prevention is key when it comes to managing heartburn and acid reflux. By making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can reduce the frequency and severity of these uncomfortable symptoms and improve your overall digestive health.

Remember that it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you are experiencing chronic or severe heartburn symptoms. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance to help you manage your condition effectively.

Understanding and Managing Heartburn: Causes, Remedies, and Risks

What Causes Heartburn?

Heartburn is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Underlying causes of heartburn can vary, including certain foods in your diet, eating too much at one time, high stress levels, and taking certain medications. Identifying and addressing these triggers can help manage and prevent heartburn episodes.

Natural Remedies for Heartburn

There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate heartburn symptoms. Eating smaller portions throughout the day can reduce the likelihood of acid reflux. Controlling stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga can also help manage heartburn. Following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Additionally, using supplements to support digestion, such as probiotics or digestive enzymes, can aid in proper digestion and reduce acid reflux. Avoiding certain medications that can trigger heartburn is also important for managing symptoms.

The Risks of Zantac

One popular over-the-counter drug for heartburn relief is Zantac, which contains ranitidine. However, recent findings suggest that Zantac may contain a contaminant that poses a risk to public health. As a result, it is recommended that Zantac no longer be used for heartburn relief. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for alternative treatment options if you have been using Zantac for heartburn.

In conclusion, understanding the underlying causes of heartburn and implementing natural remedies can help manage and prevent symptoms. It is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain medications, such as Zantac, and seek alternative solutions for heartburn relief. By taking proactive steps to address heartburn triggers and choosing safe and effective treatment options, you can improve your digestive health and overall well-being.