Heartburn Prevention Techniques to Keep the Acid Down

If you've ever had a bout of heartburn, you may understand why I say it can be disconcerting. Some of the symptoms can be mistaken for problems with the heart (and vice versa). For this reason, before you start applying home remedies, please go to the doctor and make sure that it is a problem with gastric reflux.

Once you know the cause, you can begin taking care of the problem. This needs to be handled in more than one way, as there are many possible causes. It will, if you want to resolve the problem permanently, require you to make some changes in your life.

The first step is to soothe the stomach and esophagus. The burning sensation isn't a lie, the acid is literally causing burns, and they can, over a period of time, cause permanent damage. Antacids can be helpful here, but they can cause more acid secretion when they wear off. Something that coats the area is a better bet. I use either licorice root or marshmallow root.

Licorice is preferable in some ways, because it does a better job of coating the burned areas. However, it can cause blood pressure to rise, so those with high blood pressure should stick to marshmallow. Also, if you are a diabetic, use DGL, as it has the sugar removed and shouldn't interfere with your sugar levels.

Once that is done, you may need to use something to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. Most of the time, this will involve your doctor and some sort of medication. However, you may want to try slippery elm bark if the idea of pills doesn't appeal.

The last step is to find and eliminate the cause of this problem. Being overweight is a major contributor to GERD. If you are overweight, it is a good idea to begin a weight loss plan as soon as possible.

Overeating, food choices and position after eating are the other main reasons for it. It's best to remain upright for a half an hour to an hour after eating so that the sphincter muscle between your stomach and esophagus remains closed. Overeating can prevent this tiny flap from closing all the way.

Garlic, chocolate and acidic foods will probably be put on the "best to avoid" list. There may be other foods, and it can be somewhat individual. If you notice a particular food is consumed before the pain strikes, try eliminating it to see if it goes away.

As with most medical conditions, it's a good idea to coordinate your plan with your doctor. This can help you avoid side effects and drug/herb interactions. Make sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, as well as any medications or supplements you use. Together, you can beat GERD.

My name is Mary Bodel, MH. The MH stands for Master Herbalist. This is the link to my home page: http://www.alternative-herbal-remedies.com/lpages/50stepshome.html

I am the author of an e-book entitled Herbs For Human Health, a book that helps to shed light on the world of herbal supplements. It tells you what the herbs are used for, some of their side affects and many drug/herb interactions. If you want to prepare the supplements for yourself, there is a section with recipes to do so.

If you want to know which herbs may help with problems like depression, insomnia and arthritis, this book will help.