Heartburn is a common symptom, resulting from an improper flow of stomach acid. In this article, we describe the reasons and occurrences for heartburn. Then we examine four products which mitigate heartburn and its effects.
Causes of Heartburn
Heartburn refers to the sensations of burning in the chest and lower throat area which result from the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Despite its name, heartburn is not related to the concerns of the heart! Heartburn is rather common, and is also called “acid reflux”.
Heartburn can occur only occasionally due to abdominal pressure resulting from bending over or lying down. For these reasons, it’s much more common to occur in those who are overweight or obese. Overeating and consuming fatty foods are the two primary diet factors which cause occasional heartburn. Often accompanied by burping, mild nausea, and slight regurgitation of food, this is usually no cause for concern.
Some people experience acid reflux, and heartburn, more regularly. Persistent heartburn is called GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GERD occurs when the esophageal sphincter weakens to the point of regularly allowing stomach acid to flow the wrong way. GERD is exacerbated by smoking, being overweight, and/or a hiatal hernia.
Given these facts, dietary and lifestyle factors naturally have a great influence over whether someone is likely to experience heartburn, or GERD. Smaller meals, avoidance of smoking, and even loosening your waistband during daily life can all help mitigate acid reflux. In some cases, medication is prescribed for cases of GERD. This is necessary because continual acid reflux can cause esophageal inflammation.
Products for Easing Heartburn
The relationship between nutrition and acid reflux is important. Healthy vitamins, minerals, and other substances can contribute to a reduction in acid reflux and heartburn. Here is a look at four of the most effective and accessible supplements for easing heartburn.
Probiotics: Supplementing with probiotics, which are gut-healthy and beneficial bacteria, could reduce acid reflux and heartburn. Probiotic bacteria are crucial for gut and bodily health. Studies have shown that probiotics can decrease acid reflux and associated symptoms including regurgitation and nausea. Additionally, research suggests that taking probiotics alongside heartburn medication further reduces the risk of heartburn. Probiotics could even reduce the gut flora changes which can result from the use of proton-pump inhibitors, a type of medication prescribed for GERD.
B vitamins are essential for the digestion and metabolismof food. Research suggests they could also aid the esophagus in the face of GERD. B vitamins have the potential to reduce reflux esophagitis, which is inflammation resulting from acid reflux. Multiple B vitamins are helpful, but folate (B9) is one of the most helpful.
De-glycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of the licorice herb, available in supplement form, which has been proven effective in multiple studies for helping acid reflux. DGL helps to restore the mucous coating of the esophagus, which supports esophageal tissue and thereby mitigates the uncomfortable sensation of heartburn.
Antacid tablets, such as calcium carbonate, can be taken to quell a bout of heartburn. An antacid counteracts the acid it comes into contact with in the esophagus and stomach. The best time to take an antacid is immediately after a meal, or before bed. Antacids are useful for occasional heartburn, and for those sufferers with GERD as well. Calcium carbonate and other antacids can be a very useful short-term aid, but they do not treat the underlying causes of acid reflux.
If you or a loved one experience heartburn occasionally or regularly, then consider these four prime products for mitigating it. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before trying a new supplement.