Heartburn and stomach aches are some of the most common ailments that people experience. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including acid reflux, overeating, and stress.
While these conditions can be uncomfortable, there are several things that you can do to find relief. In this article, we will be discussing some of the best ways to alleviate heartburn and stomach aches quickly.
1. Drink Water
One of the simplest ways to relieve heartburn and stomach aches is to drink water. Water helps to neutralize the acid in your stomach and reduce the symptoms of heartburn.
It is recommended that you drink at least eight glasses of water per day to maintain good overall health. However, if you are experiencing heartburn or stomach aches, you should try to drink water more frequently to help alleviate the symptoms.
2. Chew Gum
Another easy way to relieve heartburn and stomach aches is to chew gum. Chewing gum helps to increase saliva production, which can help to neutralize stomach acid.
Additionally, chewing gum can help to stimulate the production of bicarbonate in the saliva, which can help to neutralize acid that has entered the esophagus. It is recommended that you chew sugar-free gum for the best results.
3. Eat Smaller Meals
If you are prone to heartburn or stomach aches, you should try to eat smaller meals throughout the day. Larger meals can put pressure on your digestive system, which can increase the likelihood of these conditions.
Additionally, eating smaller meals can help to prevent overeating, which can also contribute to heartburn and stomach aches.
4. Avoid Trigger Foods
If you know that certain foods tend to trigger your heartburn or stomach aches, you should do your best to avoid them. Common trigger foods include spicy or fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate.
By avoiding these foods, you can reduce your risk of experiencing uncomfortable symptoms.
5. Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a natural remedy that can help to alleviate heartburn and stomach aches. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Additionally, ginger can help to reduce nausea, which can be a common symptom of these conditions. To make ginger tea, simply grate some fresh ginger into a mug and pour boiling water over it. Let the tea steep for a few minutes before drinking.
6. Take Antacids
If you are experiencing heartburn or stomach aches, taking an antacid can help to provide relief. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, which can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn and other digestive problems.
There are many different types of antacids available, so it is important to choose one that works best for you.
7. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Both alcohol and caffeine can contribute to heartburn and stomach aches.
Alcohol can irritate the digestive tract and increase acid production, while caffeine can increase acid secretion and relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which can allow acid to enter the esophagus. If you are prone to these conditions, it is best to avoid or limit your intake of these substances.
8. Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques
Stress can also contribute to heartburn and stomach aches. When you are under stress, your body produces more cortisol, which can increase the production of stomach acid.
Additionally, stress can slow down digestion, which can increase the likelihood of these conditions. To reduce stress, try practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises on a regular basis.
9. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping
If you experience heartburn at night, elevating your head while sleeping can help to alleviate the symptoms. You can do this by using a wedge pillow or propping your head up with a few pillows.
By elevating your head, you can help to prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus while you sleep.
10. Seek Medical Treatment
If you experience frequent or severe heartburn or stomach aches, it is important to seek medical treatment. These conditions can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including acid reflux, ulcers, and gallbladder disease.
A doctor can help to diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.