Why Do I Have Heartburn or Acid Reflux; and what are the natural solutions?

Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affect millions of adults. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and natural solutions can help manage and prevent discomfort.

How the Digestive System Works

When you swallow food or liquid, it passes through the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring-shaped muscle that opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to block stomach acid from rising.

When the sphincter is weak, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing the burning sensation known as acid reflux or GERD.

Who is Affected by Acid Reflux?

Age 50+: sphincter tone decreases with age.
50% of adults in North America experience it at least monthly.
Obesity: increases abdominal pressure.
Alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks: aggravate symptoms.
Large, fatty meals: overload the stomach.
Pregnancy: added pressure from the fetus.
Stress, anxiety, smoking, diabetes, hiatal hernia: major risk factors.

Common Symptoms

Burning behind the sternum (heartburn),
Acid regurgitation, bitter taste,
Hoarse voice, sore throat,
Chronic cough, nausea, hiccups,
Dental issues, ulcers.

Lifestyle Habits to Reduce Heartburn

Eat smaller, lighter meals: avoid fatty, fried, spicy, and acidic foods.
Avoid lying down after meals: stay upright, elevate your bed’s head section.
Cut back on alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and carbonated beverages.
Manage stress with relaxation techniques or natural supplements (e.g., magnesium, B-Complex Zen).
Eat slowly: chew thoroughly to support digestion.

Helpful Natural Remedies

Aloe vera juice: soothes heartburn and supports mucosal repair.
Anti-inflammatory herbs: turmeric, devil’s claw.
Chlorophyll: supports digestion and reduces acidity.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): increases protective mucus in the stomach lining.
Marshmallow root, slippery elm, plantain: calm irritated tissues.

When to See a Doctor

Frequent or severe heartburn,
Unexplained weight loss,
Black stools or vomiting blood,
Chest pain radiating to the left arm (possible heart attack),
Difficulty swallowing.

Conclusion

Heartburn and acid reflux are common but can often be relieved by adopting better lifestyle habits, dietary changes, and natural remedies. Persistent symptoms, however, require medical attention.

By Nicolas Martineau B.Sc. Nutrition

References :

Les médecines de la nature, Éditions Reader’s Digest.

Aliments santé et aliments danger, Éditions Reader’s Digest.

La pharmacie verte, Éditions Modus Santé, Symptômes, causes et guérison, Éditions Modus Santé.

Guide pratique de la phytothérapie, Éditions HM.

Les extraits d’herbes, Éditions La Bécassine bleue.

Bien se soigner, Éditions Carnets de santé.

Le guide des vitamines et suppléments, Éditions Modus Vivendi.

http://www.canalvie.com/sante-beaute/sante/index-des-maladies/brulure-d-estomac-1.1201529

https://sante.canoe.ca/channel/sante-digestive/brulures-destomac-et-indigestion/les-symptomes-des-brulures-destomac

https://sante.canoe.ca/condition/getcondition/rgo-reflux-gastro-sophagien