Heartburn is a burning sensation in the abdominal area, usually beneath the breastbone. Despite the name, heartburn is not a condition of the heart but rather is a discomfort brought about by the reflux of stomach acids to the esophagus. The LES or otherwise known as the Lower Esophageal Sphincter is the one responsible for protecting the esophagus from the harmful acids of the stomach. Once the LES is weakened, gastric juices from the stomach may reflux back to the esophagus and thus cause heartburn.
Reasons for the LES to be weakened may range from poor diet, tight clothes especially on the abdominal area, obesity, stress, hiatus hernia, etc. All of these may indirectly affect the stomach and allow it to create more acid than is needed for digestion. Nevertheless, persons who experience heartburn need not suffer from the prolonged burning discomfort anymore because there is already a home remedy for heartburn made available by your very own kitchen and that is your regular baking soda.
Yes, baking soda or sodium bicarbonate can easily neutralize acid build up in the stomach and, as a result, relieve you from heartburn symptoms. Just make a solution of baking soda and water and then drink an ample amount once you feel the symptoms. This can effectively remove the burning uneasiness and breathing difficulties caused by heartburn. However, baking soda can only give relief for a short period so there is a need to take it every once in a while. Excessive amount of baking soda intake can also harm the body so make sure to drink only what is needed to counteract heartburn.
Baking soda in giving relief to heartburn is not yet the answer to curing heartburn. It only gives fast relief of symptoms. Therefore, there is still a need to consult a doctor for the right medications to take. Other quick heartburn home remedy that you can administer is by having the proper diet. Avoid foods that encourage heartburn. Ask your doctor for the right diet too. The proper sleeping position which is lying on your left side and elevating the head of your bed has also been proven to stop acid from refluxing back to the esophagus and accordingly minimize the occurrence of heartburn.
