Game World!: can ginger cause heartburn?

Is Ginger Good for Acid Reflux ? Does Ginger Tea Help in Symptom Relief?

A few side effects of ginger may cause you to think twice before adding it to your diet. Ayurvedic practitioners have been using ginger (Zingiber officinale) to treat many conditions for centuries. Unfortunately, this herbal medicine has some detrimental effects as well.

Excess intake of ginger can cause heart issues, diarrhea, and increase the chances of miscarriage. In addition, it may interact with drugs and lower blood pressure.

This article examines the side effects of ginger, its safety, recommended dosage, and any potential drug interactions. Read on.

In This Article

11 Side Effects Of Ginger

Side Effects Of Eating Ginger In Other Forms

Side Effects Of Ginger Capsules

Possible Interactions

Recommended Dosage

11 Side Effects Of Ginger

1. May Cause Heartburn

Ginger, when taken in higher doses (more than 4 grams per day), may cause mild heartburn. As per anecdotal evidence, other likely side effects include an upset stomach and belching.

In case you are using ginger as an alternative remedy and are experiencing heartburn as a side effect, you may want to try ginger in the capsule form. This might not result in side effects.

An American study reports heartburn in subjects who were given ginger (1). Most often, consuming more than 5 grams of ginger per day can lead to these side effects, including heartburn (2).

2. May Cause Bleeding

Ginger may aggravate bleeding issues (3). This applies not only to the herb, but also to any ingredient present in the herb.

Certain experts believe that ginger could cause bleeding due to its anti-platelet (blood thinning) properties (4). Some believe ginger can further increase the risk of bleeding when taken along with other herbs like clove, garlic, ginseng, and red clover. However, more research is warranted in this aspect.

3. May Lead To Diarrhea

If taken in large quantities, ginger can cause diarrhea. Gingerols, the active ingredients in ginger, speed up the passage of food through the intestines and may cause diarrhea (5). While this was confirmed in animal studies, more studies in humans are warranted.

Diarrhea can occur when the stool moves too rapidly through the gastrointestinal tract. Abnormal gastrointestinal motility and excessive fluid secretion of the gastrointestinal tract cause diarrhea.

4. May Upset Stomach

There is less research in this regard. Ginger stimulates the secretion of bile, which benefits digestion. But if your stomach is empty, this may lead to excess gastric stimulation, causing digestive distress and an upset stomach.

The gingerol in ginger (which is similar to capsaicin, the active ingredient in many spices and chili peppers) is thought to irritate the stomach, making it produce more acid. This may leave you feeling unsettled.

However, some evidence states that ginger could actually help treat an upset stomach (6). Hence, more studies are needed to understand how ginger may cause stomach upset.

5. Might Not Be Safe During Pregnancy

Though ginger can reduce nausea in pregnant women, it is important to note the herb’s dark side as well. According to certain experts, consuming ginger can increase the risk of miscarriage (7). It may not be dangerous if the dosage is below 1500 mg per day (8). Anything beyond this could be unsafe for pregnant women.

Taking ginger supplements in large doses can also cause miscarriage and other complications. Though ginger is safe when used in amounts found in food, it can cause problems during pregnancy. Excess intake of ginger during pregnancy may also lead to acid reflux and heartburn (8).

Ginger can increases the bleeding risk by decreasing aggregation of platelets (9). Hence, mothers who have lost a significant amount of blood during childbirth must abstain from ginger during the early days following childbirth.

6. May Cause Gas And Bloating

Ginger tea may cause certain mild digestive side effects. It most often impacts the upper digestive system and causes upper digestive gas. Replacing ginger with supplements could be one solution to this. But make sure you talk to your doctor before using them.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, ginger may cause gas (10).

Use Ginger for Everything Stomach

Some believe the same could happen with ginger ale, the carbonated drink. The drink may aggravate bloating in certain individuals.

7. May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much

Ginger is usually known to aid diabetes treatment by lowering blood sugar levels. However, taking it along with diabetes medication may cause problems (11). Ginger may enhance the effects of the medication and cause hypoglycemia or excessive lowering of blood sugar.

8. May Cause Mouth Irritation

This is also called Oral Allergy Syndrome. Certain allergies occur when you consume certain foods. The symptoms are generally specific to the ears, skin, and mouth. One such allergy occurs when you consume ginger (not in all individuals, though), where your mouth starts to itch.

Mouth irritation might also lead to an unpleasant taste. Though switching to a ginger supplement might help, this is not always the case. Other related allergies include tingling and swelling of the mouth. However, limited research is available in this aspect, and we need further studies to understand why ginger may cause these allergies.

9. May Cause Skin And Eye Irritation

According to an Iranian study, the most common allergic reaction to ginger is a skin rash (12). Other allergies to ginger include itchy eyes, skin redness, and skin inflammation.

These are the major side effects of ginger. But there are certain other ill-effects of ginger (or of the different forms of ginger) that you need to be aware of.

Side Effects Of Eating Ginger In Other Forms

Ginger Root

Consuming ginger root in excess can cause stomach upset and a bad taste in the mouth. It might also cause nausea (3)

Turmeric Ginger Tea

Anecdotal evidence suggests that turmeric ginger tea may cause complications in individuals with a history of kidney stones or gallstones. The tea may aggravate the condition by increasing the levels of uric acid in the blood. It may also cause stomach cramping and bloating. However, there is less research in this regard. Hence, consult your doctor.

Lemon Ginger Tea

The only side effect of this tea that was noted was frequent urination. Excess consumption of lemon ginger tea (or any beverage for that matter) may cause frequent urination. Hence, limit the intake of this beverage.

Ginger Water

This is also known as ginger tea in certain regions. The side effects are similar to that of ginger, which include heartburn, stomach ache, gas, and a burning sensation in the mouth.

Another side effect of ginger water (the tea) is that it may disturb your sleep. This means that it can keep you up for a long time at night if you consume it before hitting the bed. However, limited information is available to support this point.

Ginger Ale

Research is limited in this area. One dangerous side effect of ginger ale could be its possible interaction with cancer medications. It can also aggravate gallbladder disease.

Side Effects Of Ginger Capsules

The major problem with ginger supplements is their tendency to interact with prescription medications. Most of their side effects are similar to that of raw ginger.

Ginger was found to have anti-diabetic properties. If taken along with anti-diabetes medications, ginger (or its capsules) can lower blood sugar levels way too much (13).

Ginger has been closely related to turmeric (also called yellow ginger) for its therapeutic properties. However, turmeric too may have side effects, if taken in excess amounts. Turmeric may interact with certain medications. These include cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics, anticoagulants, chemotherapy drugs, and anti-histamines (14). Though research is limited to conclude the medical interactions of yellow ginger, it is important to exercise caution.

Possible Interactions

Ginger also interacts with other drugs like phenprocoumon (a drug used in Europe to slow blood clotting) and warfarin (another drug to slow down blood clotting). Consuming ginger along with these medications might increase your risk of bruising and bleeding (3).

Recommended Dosage

Dosages of around 1500 mg per day were found to treat nausea (12). Going beyond this dosage may cause adverse effects, though information is unclear. Hence, it is important to consult a doctor.

If it is ginger root, the following dosages may be ideal (these are just guidelines; for ideal values, please consult your doctor):

For children between the ages of 2 and 6 years, not more than 2 mg of ginger root in a day.

For adults, not more than 4 grams of ginger root in a day.

For pregnant women, not more than 1 gram of ginger root in a day.

Conclusion

Ginger has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. However, excess consumption of ginger may have some serious side effects, such as lowering blood pressure way too much, diarrhea, and heart problems.

Hence, limit the intake of this root and consult a doctor if you have observed any side effects after consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can ginger cause heart problems?

It is believed that excess ginger intake can lead to irregularities in the heartbeat. However, direct research is lacking in this area. As ginger can interact with certain medications, it is wise to consult your doctor before taking ginger with medications pertaining to heart health (including anti-hypertensive medications).

Can ginger increase blood pressure?

No. Eating too much ginger while you are on blood pressure-lowering medication may lead to lowering of blood pressure way too much. However, research is limited in this area

Acid reflux, also known as GERD, occurs when stomach acid flows back up from the stomach into the esophagus. Some are more susceptible to acid reflux than others, but it is typically caused by food or drink triggers. If you suffer from acid reflux, make sure to add these 10 foods to your diet.

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Salmon: Salmon is a great source of protein and fiber while also being low in cholesterol. Research has shown that foods high in fiber can help reduce the effects of acid reflux.

Ginger: Ginger is naturally anti-inflammatory, and is a natural treatment for gastrointestinal problems, which is why many people drink ginger ale when they’re nauseous. You can add grated ginger to almost anything to ease acid reflux symptoms!

Fruits: Non-citrus fruits like melons, apples, pears, and bananas are less likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms than citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, or lemons.

Potatoes: Potatoes are low in acid, and are high in carbohydrates that are more likely to absorb acids.

Broccoli: All green vegetables are good for acid reflux, but because broccoli is also high in vitamin-C, it is a superfood in terms of easing your acid reflux symptoms.

Egg Whites: Eggs are a popular food item in terms of easing acid reflux, but some people find that the yolks have a high fat content which can trigger acid reflux. Egg whites are the low-fat, low-cholesterol option to help with acid reflux.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a whole grain, high in fiber, and a great way to absorb some of the acid in your stomach that may be causing reflux.

Lean Poultry: Low-fat meats like chicken and turkey are good to reduce acid reflux when grilled, broiled, or baked – NOT fried.

Avocado: Despite being high in fat, avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can settle your stomach and prevent acid reflux symptoms.

Whole Grain Rice: Whole grains are great to absorb the acids causing reflux, and rice is one of the most absorbent.

Managing your acid reflux symptoms is all about finding your triggers. Take the time to pay attention to what you are eating, what these foods are being cooked in, and how they are processed. If you’re feeling lost, or are considering making a dietary change, consult your doctor.

The root of the ginger plant, or Zingiber officinale, has a long history in the treatment of digestive disorders. The aromatic and slightly pungent root is also a food source used extensively in Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. While ginger is an herb of choice for treating an upset stomach, it may trigger heartburn in high doses. See your doctor if heartburn persists, and do not use ginger to self-treat a medical condition.

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Heartburn

It starts with a burning sensation behind your breastbone that may get worse if you lie down or bend over. Heartburn doesn't affect your heart; instead, it's a symptom of stomach acid backing up into your esophagus, the pipe that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

Ginger’s Effect on Digestion

Ginger, used in herbal circles to reduce nausea and vomiting, acts as a digestive aid to treat minor stomach upsets by increasing bile and gastric juices, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Gingerol and shogaol are the active components in ginger responsible for this effect. In most cases, ginger soothes the stomach and promotes digestion.

Dosage/Method

Adults may take up to 4 grams of ginger daily to ease nausea or a sour stomach. This amount represents a total of all sources of ginger, including ginger cookies and ginger ale. Ginger is available as a fresh root, which may be grated and used to season food or to make an herbal tea, in dried capsule form or as a liquid extract. At these doses, ginger is unlikely to cause heartburn.

High Doses and Heartburn

At doses higher than 4 grams per day, side effects may occur, including mild heartburn, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. Additional side effects may include belching and stomach upset and are less likely to occur if you use ginger capsules instead of fresh ginger. If you experience heartburn, discontinue taking ginger and visit with your doctor. People with bleeding disorders and those taking blood-thinning drugs should not take ginger unless directed to do so by their doctors. Do not give ginger to children.

Can heartburn damage your heart?

Anyone who is worried about chest pain should not wait to get urgent medical care. They should call for an ambulance straight away, especially if the pain is unexplained, sudden, or severe.

Heart attack pain happens when one of the arteries supplying the heart becomes blocked. Angina is a similar chest pain caused when these arteries are narrowed by heart disease.

Heartburn is a burning pain often felt in the upper belly or lower chest. It is caused by stomach acid going back up the food pipe.

Heartburn and heart attack pain can be similar. If someone is in doubt whether pain is a heart attack, they should always call for an ambulance. If it is a heart attack, prompt medical care can be lifesaving.

What is a heart attack?

Is it a heart attack? If in doubt, call an ambulance.

A heart attack is an event caused by disease in the coronary arteries. These blood vessels supply blood to the heart, keeping it alive with energy and oxygen.

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When coronary artery disease causes a loss of blood supply to part of the heart muscle, this is a heart attack.

A heart attack can lead to the heart stopping. This is called a cardiac arrest. Someone with cardiac arrest will not be responsive and will have no pulse.

Doctors also use the term “acute coronary syndrome” or ACS to talk about heart attack and other serious heart problems such as unstable angina.

Symptoms of a heart attack

Heart attacks often — but not always — happen with classic symptoms:

chest pain that is often described as pressure, squeezing, heaviness, tightness, fullness, or ache

chest pain that feels like a very heavy weight crushing against the chest

pain may come and go, but lasts for more than a few minutes

Not all heart attacks give the same symptoms. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and some people experience no symptoms at all.

The chest pain or discomfort is usually central or central-left, but it might not be. The pain may spread to other areas. It can affect one or both arms, the neck, jaw, or upper or mid-back.

Heart attack often comes with other symptoms:

breaking out in a cold sweat

being short of breath

feeling sick or nauseous

vomiting

feeling very tired or lacking in energy

feeling dizzy or lightheaded

People who may be less likely to experience symptoms when having a heart attack include older people and those with diabetes. These people may still show other symptoms though, such as breathlessness.

What is angina?

Angina is a type of chest pain that is similar to the pain of a heart attack.

Rather than the reduced supply of blood to the heart being caused by a coronary artery blockage, it is caused by vessel narrowing instead.

People with angina are at greater risk of having a heart attack. Anyone who has angina should be under medical care and alert to this risk.

The most common form of angina is temporary pain that goes away after rest or medication. This is called stable angina. Unstable angina raises the risk of a heart attack.

What is heartburn?

Heartburn tends to occur shortly after eating or drinking.

Heartburn is a symptom, not a disease.

It is the sensation, usually of burning pain, caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux is the contents of the stomach splashing back up into the food pipe.

Heartburn is not related to the heart in any way. The confusion comes from the location of the pain, in the chest.

The stomach produces mucus to protect its lining from the acid that it uses to help with digestion.

The food pipe lacks this protection, so acid reflux can damage its lining. For many people, though, acid reflux does not cause such damage.

Why people with acid reflux experience pain is not fully understood. Acid-sensitive nerves may be involved in causing the pain.

Heartburn symptoms

Heartburn creates a burning sensation in the food pipe.

This burning-type pain usually happens just above the stomach. The acid can also reach higher up, possibly even as far as the back of the mouth.

Other symptoms of acid reflux disease can go with the heartburn. These can include nausea, bloating, and belching.

Differences between symptoms of heartburn and heart attack

It can sometimes be difficult to knowTrusted Source if symptoms are due to a heart attack or heartburn. Doctors often find making a diagnosis based on symptoms alone difficult and rely on tests.

Sometimes even doctors can find their symptoms difficult to understand. A doctor at Harvard, for example, has told his story of heart disease.

He had a burning symptom in his upper belly whenever he exercised, but treatments for heartburn did not help.

It was not until he became breathless and unable to carry on that he sought medical help. Tests revealed heart disease that was close to causing a heart attack.

The main difference between symptoms is that:

Heartburn tends to be worse after eating and when lying down, but a heart attack can happen after a meal, too.

Heartburn can be relieved by drugs that reduce acid levels in the stomach.

Heartburn does not cause more general symptoms, such as breathlessness.

Heart attack does not cause bloating or belching, but these can happen with heartburn.

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When to call a doctor

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that anyone who has the following symptomsTrusted Source should call 911 at once:

Chest pain or discomfort, such as pressure, squeezing, pain, or fullness that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back again

Pain or discomfort in other parts of the body, for example, one or both arms, back, jaw, neck, or stomach

Shortness of breath, before or with chest discomfort

Cold sweat

Nausea and dizziness

Other signs: Feeling unusually tired

All these symptoms can affect both men and women, but:

women are more likelyTrusted Source to experience jaw pain, nausea and vomiting, and other symptoms

chest pain is more likely to be a dominant symptom in men

If there is any suspicion of a heart attack, getting to an emergency room quickly is important.

When to see a doctor for heartburn

People who experience acid reflux should make an appointment to see a doctor if:

the condition persists for some time

food “sticks” in the throat

there is difficulty eating

weight loss

there is blood in the stools

there is difficulty breathing or swallowing

Persistent exposure to the stomach acid can cause damage to the esophagus.

These could also be signs of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), cancer, or a peptic ulcer.

Treatment for heart attack

Immediate treatment may includeTrusted Source:

aspirin to stop the blood from clotting

nitroglycerin to improve blood flow

oxygen therapy

treatment for chest pain

Emergency doctors will consider the symptoms, examine the patient, and carry out some tests.

Diagnosis

A cardiac stress test is used to monitor the heart.

Tests for heart attack may includeTrusted Source:

ECG: This traces the beat and rhythm of the heart by measuring its electrical activity moving from the top to the bottom of the heart.

Stress testing: This involves monitoring the heart, breathing, and symptoms during exercise on a treadmill.

Echocardiography: “Echo” looks at the heart using ultrasound.

X-ray, blood tests, and other investigations such as passing a dye into the heart circulation: This is called angiography.

Treatment options

Percutaneous coronary intervention is one form of treatment. A doctor will mechanically open up narrowed arteries by threading a small catheter through a blood vessel, usually in the groin.

A device, such as a balloon, is used to widen the narrowed artery and improve flow through it. A mesh tube, known as a stent, may be left in place, to keep the vessel open.

Drugs known as fibrinolytic or thrombolytic agents are another treatment option for heart attack. These medications are used to break down clots.

Other drugs may be continued to prevent further clotting events, including blood-thinners such as aspirin and heparin.

Surgery options may include coronary artery bypass graft. Here, a surgeon grafts on a new blood vessel taken from another part of the body to bypass the blocked coronary artery

People who have experienced a heart attack will also be urged to make long-term efforts to reduce their risk of future problems.

This can include lifestyle changes, such as:

following a healthful diet that is low in fat and sugar

getting regular exercise

avoiding or quitting smoking

maintaining a healthy weight

There may be more intensive help with such changes from a program known as cardiac rehabilitation.

Treatment for heartburn

The diagnosis of heartburn is through a combination of:

Evaluating the symptoms: The doctor will ask about when, how often, and how long they happen for, the level of severity, and how the problem varies and responds to meals, the person’s posture, and so on.

Response to treatment: This looks at how symptoms respond to treatments that suppress acid in the stomach.

Imaging of the food pipe: A camera known as an endoscope may be used to see any damage in the food pipe lining.

pH testing of the food pipe: This can measure the level of acidity.

Treatment will depend on the cause.

It may include:

using medications to neutralize the acid or reduce production

lifestyle changes, for example, eating smaller, more frequent meals

avoiding foods that trigger reflux

not eating 2 to 3 hours before sleep

maintaining a healthy weight

not smoking

The individual’s account of the symptoms is often enough to make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. If the treatment does not work, the person should seek further advice.

Learn more about the warning signs of a heart attack.

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If a person starts to feel signs that might mean a heart attack, how long do they have to decide what to do and to get to the hospital?

They should call 911 at once if they think they may be having signs of a heart attack.

Gerhard Whitworth, RN

Can heartburn be cured?

—Damaris S., Ashford University, California

Yes, most cases of acid reflux, sometimes referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can be cured. When faced with this diagnosis, I like to treat both symptoms and root causes.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

Common symptoms involve sour stomach or stomach pain (indigestion) accompanied by a periodic sense of acid washing back up the esophagus from the stomach (called reflux, or water brash). Some people don’t have any pain but may come in complaining of a nagging cough. Others may have chest pain so severe they think they’re suffering angina (heart attack pains).

Symptoms are usually worse when lying down, since gravity is less able to help keep stomach contents in the stomach. Symptoms may also be exacerbated by caffeine, acidic foods, alcohol, and smoking.

What’s the cause?

The literal cause of reflux is failure of a sphincter, a muscular valve separating the stomach from the esophagus. When working properly, the gastroesophageal sphincter opens to allow swallowed food to travel into the stomach, then closes tightly to prevent the strongly acidic contents of the stomach, which has a protective lining, from scalding the esophagus, which is less well protected against acids. Chronically elevated stomach acid levels can lead to inflammation of the sphincter, preventing it from closing as effectively.

The most common root cause is stress; however, diet, lifestyle, and medications can also be factors.

What are some treatment options?

Treatment strategies focus on lowering stomach acid levels. Usually, prescriptions include a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. These are very effective at controlling acid reflux symptoms, especially in otherwise healthy young people.

In addition to rapid benefits in symptom control, lowering stomach acidity supports healing of the stomach lining and the inflamed sphincter, allowing this valve to more effectively prevent reflux. It’s best to start with a higher dose until symptoms have been well controlled for a good length of time, and then step down to a regular dose for another few weeks, but speak with your health care provider for their specific suggestions for you. Depending on the contributing factors, symptoms may or may not come back after treatment. If they do, they’re usually recognized in an earlier phase, when they’re easier to treat.

Complete treatment of GERD includes addressing root causes as much as possible, such as stress and lifestyle. Changes such as stress management, diet modifications, and medication changes usually help to cement the gains made with acid-lowering medication.

It’s usually a good idea to go to the doctor if you have GERD symptoms that last more than a week and/or aren’t responding to usual medications. Most cases can be managed successfully, but careful evaluation, sometimes including referral to a specialist, is sometimes recommended, especially if symptoms are severe or continuously recur.

Can heartburn cause shortness of breath?

Acid reflux occurs when acid leaks from the stomach back up into the esophagus. An occasional bout of acid reflux is generally not a cause for concern. However, a frequent pattern of acid reflux may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is a chronic digestive issue that can cause medical complications.

Sometimes, acid reflux occurs together with shortness of breath. In some cases, acid reflux causes shortness of breath.

People who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be at increased risk of have asthma or other respiratory conditions.

This article describes the link between acid reflux and shortness of breath, outlines some of the symptoms of acid reflux, and looks at the treatment options available.

What is the link between these symptoms?

Acid reflux occurs when acid leaks up from the stomach back up into the esophagus. When this happens, the acid can irritate the airways, causing them to swell. This can result in breathing difficulties.

The link between GERD and asthma

Acid reflux and shortness of breath can often occur together.

Researchers have also identified a link between GERD and asthma. A 2019 study suggested a bidirectional relationship between GERD and asthma. This means that people with GERD may be more likely to have asthma, and people with asthma may be more likely to experience GERD.

In fact, a 2015 study estimates that up to 89% of people with asthma also experience GERD symptoms. The reason for this may be due to how acid interacts with the airways. Acid in the esophagus sends a warning signal to the brain, which triggers the airways to contract. This, in turn, triggers asthma symptoms.

In cases of GERD-related asthma, treating the symptoms of GERD may help alleviate the symptoms of asthma.

As a 2016 review notes, asthma may also trigger GERD. During an asthma attack, the airways tighten, causing pressure in the esophagus. This increased pressure could encourage acid to leak into the esophagus.

Sometimes, it may be difficult to tell whether a person’s symptoms are the result of asthma or GERD. For instance, a 2015 case studyTrusted Source notes that typical GERD symptoms, such as burping and shortness of breath, may sometimes be signs of asthma. The authors of this study emphasize the importance of a thorough diagnosis in each case.

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Heartburn: Foods to Eat, Foods to Avoid

Are There Any Tests for Heartburn?

If it is obvious from the symptoms that a person has heartburn, no tests or exams may be necessary. Advice in regard to lifestyle modifications, diet, or medications may begin immediately.

If your health care professional is not sure about the diagnosis, or if he or she is concerned about damage done by chronic heartburn, tests may be ordered. This is true especially if the patient has already been prescribed medications that are not relieving the heartburn.

There is no simple blood test for heartburn. The tests used to diagnose heartburn include the following:

Upper GI (gastrointestinal) endoscopy: While the patient is lightly sedated, a thin tube is passed down the esophagus. The tube has a light and a tiny camera on the end. The camera sends pictures of the esophagus to a video monitor. The doctor can then see how much damage has been done to the esophagus from stomach acid. The endoscopy also shows other causes of heartburn, such as infection, and whether the patient has any complications of heartburn, such as bleeding. Some problems can actually be treated with the endoscope.

Upper GI series: An upper GI series is a series of X-rays of the patient's chest and abdomen taken after a liquid that coats the inside of the esophagus and stomach is swallowed. This liquid provides contrast so that any problems are easier to see.

Esophageal manometry: An esophageal manometry test measures the strength of the LES and the contraction movement of the esophagus after a swallow. This test usually is done if an upper GI endoscopy shows nothing abnormal but the patient continues to have pain.

24-hour pH monitoring: This test measures the strength of the patient's stomach acid. A very thin tube is passed through the nose into the esophagus and left in place for the next 24 hours. During this period, the test measures the amount of acid back-up that occurs while the patient goes about his or her regular activities, including eating. Another version of this test uses a tiny capsule to measure acid back-up. The doctor uses an endoscope to attach the bean-sized capsule to the esophagus. The capsule measures pH levels and delivers readings by radio wave to a receiver you wear on your belt. After about 48 hours, the capsule detaches and passes harmlessly through your digestive system.

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What Is the Treatment for Heartburn?

The health care professional will recommend treating heartburn in a stepwise fashion. For mild or occasional symptoms, simple lifestyle modifications may be enough. The next step is nonprescription antacids such as Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, or Rolaids. Other treatments include acid blockers and even surgery. In most cases, one or more of these treatments provide relief from heartburn and prevent it from turning into a more serious disease.

I take nonprescription antacids for heartburn, but they don't seem to help.

Nonprescription antacids are only part of the treatment for heartburn. They can work very well, but these antacids alone usually can't stop heartburn. A health care professional will probably recommend that the patient make lifestyle changes in addition to other treatments.

What kind of lifestyle changes and remedies can I make to reduce heartburn?

Try any or all of the following:

Avoid large meals, especially at night.

Avoid caffeine (coffee, teas, some soft drinks).

Avoid foods or drinks that relax the lower esophageal sphincter such as chocolate, peppermint, caffeine-containing beverages, and fatty or fried foods.

Avoid foods that may damage the esophagus such as spicy foods, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and tomato sauces, or any food that causes symptoms.

After eating, avoid activities that force acid back into the esophagus. Such activities include lifting, straining, coughing, and wearing tight clothing.

Use gravity as an advantage. Avoid lying down for three hours after a meal. If a person suffers from nighttime heartburn, elevate the head of the bed when sleeping. Place 6-inch blocks underneath the head of the bed, or place a wedge under the mattress. Simply using more pillows under the head will not help. In fact, it may increase heartburn because it increases pressure on your stomach.

Lose weight if you are overweight.

Stop smoking.

Limit alcohol intake.

Will these changes stop the heartburn?

They may. If they don't, adding a nonprescription antacid can be helpful.

How do antacids work?

Antacids work by neutralizing acid. They should be taken 1 hour after meals or when heartburn symptoms occur. Liquid antacids usually work faster than tablets or chewables.

Antacids are useful because they relieve heartburn rapidly, especially if it is caused by foods or certain activity. But relief is only temporary. Over-the-counter antacids do not prevent heartburn from returning or allow an injured esophagus to heal. If a person needs antacids for more than 2 weeks, talk with a health care professional to get a better diagnosis of the condition and appropriate treatment.

Most varieties of antacids can be bought in drugstores and are combinations of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide. Antacids containing these ingredients may produce unwanted diarrhea or constipation. Antacids containing calcium carbonate are the most potent in neutralizing stomach acid, but can cause a rebound of increased acid production. Popular brands are Tums and Titralac.

When taking antacids, follow label instructions and do not take more than the recommended daily dose. Take antacids after meals and at bedtime-or when symptoms occur.

Always tell a health care professionl about any antacid use.

What if lifestyle changes and antacids don't work?

If a person still has symptoms after lifestyle modifications and antacids, a health care professional probably will prescribe a stronger drug. The usual choice is one of the histamine-2 (H2) blockers, or acid blockers. These drugs block the biochemical process that creates acid in the stomach.

What are acid blockers?

The name says it all. Acid blockers reduce production of acid by the stomach. Less acid in the stomach means less acid back-up into the esophagus. Some examples are cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), and famotidine (Pepcid). Low doses of these drugs are available without a prescription. More potent doses require a prescription. These drugs relieve symptoms within 30 minutes and are usually taken twice a day.

What Are My Options if These Treatments Don't Work?

If a person continues to have heartburn, a health care professional may recommend adding a drug such as metoclopramide (Reglan). This drug empties food and acid quickly from the stomach so less can back up into the esophagus. Reglan also helps tighten the lower esophageal sphincter.

If a person still have symptoms, a health care professional will then recommend one of the drugs called proton pump inhibitors. Examples of these drugs are omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), esomeprazole (Nexium), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and pantoprazole (Protonix). These tablets prevent the stomach from secreting acid. They are very effective and are typically taken only once a day. These drugs usually are prescribed if other drugs have not helped. They may have to be used indefinitely.

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Digestive Disorders: Common Misconceptions

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When Is Surgery Needed for Heartburn?

If prescription drugs are not relieving heartburn, or if a person has serious complications of heartburn, surgery may be necessary.

The operation is relatively simple and is called fundoplication.

Its purpose is to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter muscle.

The stomach is tied in such a way as to prevent acid from flowing backward into the esophagus.

This surgery is successful for more than 85% of people.

How Can I Prevent Heartburn?

Many cases of heartburn can be prevented by simple lifestyle modifications in diet, activity, and habits.

Watching what kinds of foods eaten and how much food is eaten can reduce symptoms.

Also, pay attention to body position after eating. Don't lie down.

Limit alcohol intake, quit smoking, and lose weight to improve not only heartburn symptoms but also overall health.

What Happens if I Stop Treatment?

Most cases of heartburn are treated effectively with lifestyle modifications, antacids, or prescription drugs.

However, relapse is common when treatment is stopped. Serious complications, such as bleeding or difficulty swallowing, are rare.

Other possible problems caused by acid back-up include inflammation of the throat, voice box, and airways. If left untreated for years, chronic heartburn has been said to lead to Barrette's esophagus (a change in the lining cells of the esophagus) and, eventually, cancer of the esophagus.

What can you eat to stop heartburn?

Getting a case of acid reflux (heartburn) once in a while isn't unusual, but some people suffer from burning discomfort, bloating and belching almost every time they eat. About 20% of the population has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic acid reflux condition that's diagnosed by a doctor.

Normally, the esophageal sphincter (a muscular tube that lets food pass into the stomach and then cinches shut to block it from coming back up) protects the esophagus from stomach acid. However, if the sphincter relaxes, food can push upward through the loosened opening and cause acid reflux.

"Diet plays a major role in controlling acid reflux symptoms and is the first line of therapy used for people with GERD," says Ekta Gupta, M.B.B.S., M.D., gastroenterologist with Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Getting To The Root Of And Getting Rid Of Heartburn And Reflux

Foods That May Cause Heartburn

Foods commonly known to be heartburn triggers cause the esophageal sphincter to relax and delay the digestive process, letting food sit in the stomach longer, says Gupta. The worst culprits? Foods that are high in fat, salt or spice such as:

Fried food

Fast food

Pizza

Potato chips and other processed snacks

Chili powder and pepper (white, black, cayenne)

Fatty meats such as bacon and sausage

Cheese

Other foods that can cause the same problem include:

Tomato-based sauces

Citrus fruits

Chocolate

Peppermint

Carbonated beverages

"Moderation is key since many people may not be able to or want to completely eliminate these foods," says Gupta. "But try to avoid eating problem foods late in the evening closer to bedtime, so they're not sitting in your stomach and then coming up your esophagus when you lay down at night. It's also a good idea to eat small frequent meals instead of bigger, heavier meals and avoid late-night dinners and bedtime snacks."

Foods That Help Prevent Acid Reflux

Good news: There are plenty of things you can eat to help prevent acid reflux. Stock your kitchen with foods from these three categories:

a bowl of banana oatmeal

High-fiber foods

Fibrous foods make you feel full so you're less likely to overeat, which may contribute to heartburn. So, load up on healthy fiber from these foods:

Whole grains such as oatmeal, couscous and brown rice.

Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets.

Green vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli and green beans.

a bowl of mixed nuts

Alkaline foods

Foods fall somewhere along the pH scale (an indicator of acid levels). Those that have a low pH are acidic and more likely to cause reflux. Those with higher pH are alkaline and can help offset strong stomach acid. Alkaline foods include:

Bananas

Melons

Cauliflower

Fennel

Nuts

a bowl of cut watermelon

Watery foods

Eating foods that contain a lot of water can dilute and weaken stomach acid. Choose foods such as:

Celery

Cucumber

Lettuce

Watermelon

Broth-based soups

Herbal tea

Heartburn Home Remedies

People with heartburn commonly reach for antacids, over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid. But eating certain foods may also offer relief from symptoms. Consider trying the following:

milk pouring from a pitcher into a glass

Milk

Does milk help with heartburn? "Milk is often thought to relieve heartburn," says Gupta. "But you have to keep in mind that milk comes in different varieties — whole milk with the full amount of fat, 2% fat, and skim or nonfat milk. The fat in milk can aggravate acid reflux. But nonfat milk can act as a temporary buffer between the stomach lining and acidic stomach contents and provide immediate relief of heartburn symptoms." Low-fat yogurt has the same soothing qualities along with a healthy dose of probiotics (good bacteria that enhance digestion).

a cup of ginger tea

Ginger

Ginger is one of the best digestive aids because of its medicinal properties. It's alkaline in nature and anti-inflammatory, which eases irritation in the digestive tract. Try sipping ginger tea when you feel heartburn coming on.

Apple cider vinegar and apples

Apple cider vinegar

While there isn't enough research to prove that drinking apple cider vinegar works for acid reflux, many people swear that it helps. However, you should never drink it at full concentration because it's a strong acid that can irritate the esophagus. Instead, put a small amount in warm water and drink it with meals.

a cup of lemon water with honey

Lemon water

Lemon juice is generally considered very acidic, but a small amount of lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey has an alkalizing effect that neutralizes stomach acid. Also, honey has natural antioxidants, which protect the health of cells.

How a Doctor Can Help

If you have heartburn two or more times a week and changes to your diet or eating pattern haven't helped, consult a doctor. A gastroenterologist (a doctor who specializes in the digestive system) can perform tests to measure the acidity in your stomach and see if frequent acid reflux has damaged your esophagus.

GERD is often treatable through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. But persistent symptoms of reflux need thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist who can find the underlying cause and discuss available treatment options.

How do you stop heartburn naturally?

Most of us are all too familiar with the painful, burning sensation in the center of the chest that’s associated with heartburn.

In fact, up to 28% of adults in North America experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a common condition that causes heartburn. GERD occurs when acid is pushed up from the stomach back into the esophagus, which leads to the heartburn sensation (1Trusted Source).

Can Acid Reflux Cause Dry Cough?

Although people often use medications to treat acid reflux and heartburn, many lifestyle modifications can also help you reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Here are 14 natural ways to reduce your acid reflux and heartburn, all backed by scientific research.

Vuk Saric/Getty Images

1. Chew gum

A few older studies have shown that chewing gum may help decrease acidity in the esophagus (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source).

Gum that contains bicarbonate appears to be especially effective, as it can help neutralize acid to prevent reflux (5Trusted Source).

Chewing gum can also increase saliva production, which may help clear the esophagus of acid (6Trusted Source).

However, more up-to-date research is needed to determine whether chewing gum can help treat acid reflux or relieve the symptoms of heartburn.

SUMMARY

Chewing gum increases the formation of saliva and may help clear the esophagus of stomach acid.

2. Sleep on your left side

Several studies have found that sleeping on your right side may worsen reflux symptoms at night (7Trusted Source, 8).

In fact, according to one review, lying on your left side may decrease acid exposure in the esophagus by up to 71% (8).

Although the reason is not entirely clear, it could be explained by anatomy.

The esophagus enters the right side of the stomach. As a result, the lower esophageal sphincter sits above the level of stomach acid when you sleep on your left side.

On the other hand, when you lie on your right side, stomach acid covers the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of reflux (7Trusted Source, 8).

While sleeping on the left side all night may not always be possible, it could help make you more comfortable as you fall asleep.

SUMMARY

If you experience acid reflux at night, try sleeping on the left side of your body.

3. Elevate the head of your bed

Some people experience reflux symptoms during the night, which can affect sleep quality and make it more difficult to fall asleep (9Trusted Source).

Changing the position that you sleep in by elevating the head of your bed could help reduce symptoms of acid reflux and improve sleep quality (9Trusted Source).

One review of four studies found that elevating the head of the bed decreased acid reflux and improved symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation in people with GERD (10Trusted Source).

Another study showed that people who used a wedge to elevate their upper body while sleeping experienced less acid reflux compared with when they slept flat (7Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Elevating the head of your bed may reduce your reflux symptoms at night.

4. Eat dinner earlier

Healthcare professionals often advise people with acid reflux to avoid eating within the 3 hours before they go to sleep.

That’s because lying horizontally after a meal makes digestion more difficult, potentially worsening GERD symptoms.

According to one review, eating a late-night meal increased acid exposure when lying down by 5%, compared with eating earlier in the evening (11Trusted Source).

Another study including 817 people with type 2 diabetes found that eating dinner late at night was associated with a higher risk of acid reflux (12Trusted Source).

Still, more studies are needed before solid conclusions can be made about the effect of late evening meals on GERD. It may also depend on the individual.

SUMMARY

Observational studies suggest that eating close to bedtime may worsen acid reflux symptoms at night. However, the evidence is inconclusive, and more studies are needed.

5. Opt for cooked onions instead of raw

Raw onions are a common trigger for acid reflux and heartburn.

One older study in people with acid reflux showed that eating a meal containing raw onion significantly increased heartburn, acid reflux, and burping, compared with consuming an identical meal that didn’t contain onions (13Trusted Source).

More frequent burping might suggest that more gas is being produced. This could be due to the high amounts of fermentable fiber in onions (14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source).

Raw onions are also more difficult to digest and might irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing worsened heartburn (16Trusted Source).

Whatever the reason, if you think eating raw onion makes your symptoms worse, you should avoid it and opt for cooked onions instead.

SUMMARY

Some people experience worsened heartburn and other reflux symptoms after eating raw onions.

6. Eat smaller, more frequent meals

There’s a ring-like muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter where the esophagus opens into the stomach.

It acts as a valve and normally prevents the acidic contents of the stomach from going up into the esophagus. It typically stays closed but may open when you swallow, belch, or vomit.

In people with acid reflux, this muscle is weakened or dysfunctional. Acid reflux can also occur when there’s too much pressure on the muscle, causing acid to squeeze through the opening (17Trusted Source).

Unsurprisingly, most reflux symptoms take place after a meal. It also seems that eating just one to two large meals per day may worsen reflux symptoms (18Trusted Source).

Therefore, eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux (19Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Acid reflux usually increases after meals, and larger meals seem to make it worse. Therefore, eating smaller, more frequent meals may be beneficial.

7. Maintain a moderate weight

The diaphragm is a muscle located above your stomach. Normally, the diaphragm naturally strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter, which prevents excessive amounts of stomach acid from leaking up into the esophagus.

However, if you have excess belly fat, the pressure in your abdomen may become so high that the lower esophageal sphincter gets pushed upward, away from the diaphragm’s support (21Trusted Source).

This condition, known as hiatal hernia, is considered the leading cause of GERD (21Trusted Source).

How to STOP your Acid Reflux & GERD | Naturally with Lifestyle & Diet | Medication & Surgery

Furthermore, research shows that having excess belly fat may be associated with a higher risk of acid reflux and GERD (22Trusted SourceTrusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source).

For this reason, some studies suggest that losing at least 10% of your body weight could significantly decrease symptoms of GERD in people with the condition (25Trusted Source).

Achieving and maintaining a moderate body weight can help reduce acid reflux in the long term.

However, if you’re interested in this approach, make sure to speak with a healthcare professional to assess whether it’s right for you, and if so, how you can lose weight safely and sustainably.

SUMMARY

Losing belly fat and maintaining a moderate weight might relieve some of your symptoms of GERD. However, make sure to speak with a healthcare professional before attempting to lose weight to treat this condition.

8. Follow a low carb diet

Growing evidence suggests that low carb diets may relieve acid reflux symptoms.

In fact, some researchers suspect that undigested carbs may cause bacterial overgrowth and increased pressure inside the abdomen, which could contribute to acid reflux (26Trusted Source, 27Trusted Source).

Having too many undigested carbs in your digestive system often can not only cause gas and bloating but also burping (28Trusted Source, 29Trusted SourceTrusted Source, 30Trusted Source).

However, while some studies suggest that low carb diets could improve reflux symptoms, more research is needed (31Trusted Source, 32Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Some research suggests that poor carb digestion and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine may result in acid reflux. Low carb diets may be an effective treatment, but further studies are needed.

9. Limit your alcohol intake

Drinking alcohol may increase the severity of acid reflux and heartburn.

In fact, some studies have shown that higher alcohol intake could be linked to increased symptoms of acid reflux (33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source).

Alcohol aggravates symptoms by increasing stomach acid, relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, and impairing the ability of the esophagus to clear out acid (35Trusted Source).

Although new research is needed, some older studies also show that drinking wine or beer increases reflux symptoms, especially compared with drinking plain water (36Trusted Source, 37Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Excessive alcohol intake can worsen acid reflux symptoms. If you experience heartburn, limiting your alcohol intake might help ease some of your discomfort.

10. Don’t drink too much coffee

Studies have found that coffee temporarily relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of acid reflux (38Trusted Source).

Some evidence also points toward caffeine as a possible cause. Similarly to coffee, caffeine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, which could cause reflux (39Trusted Source).

Nevertheless, although several studies suggest that coffee and caffeine may worsen acid reflux for some people, the evidence is not entirely conclusive.

For example, one analysis of observational studies found no significant effects of coffee intake on the self-reported symptoms of GERD.

Yet, when researchers investigated the signs of acid reflux with a small camera, they found coffee consumption was linked to greater acid damage in the esophagus (40Trusted Source).

Thus, whether coffee intake worsens acid reflux may depend on the individual. If you find coffee gives you heartburn, it’s best to simply avoid it or limit your intake.

SUMMARY

Evidence suggests that coffee may make acid reflux and heartburn worse. If you feel like coffee worsens your symptoms, consider limiting your intake.

11. Limit your intake of carbonated beverages

Healthcare professionals sometimes advise people with GERD to limit their intake of carbonated beverages.

This is because studies have observed that regular consumption of carbonated or fizzy beverages, including soft drinks, club soda, and seltzer, could be linked to a higher risk of reflux (41Trusted Source, 42Trusted Source).

One study found that carbonated soft drinks, in particular, worsened certain acid reflux symptoms, including heartburn, fullness, and burping (43).

The main reason is that the carbon dioxide gas (the bubbles) in carbonated beverages causes people to burp more often — an effect that can increase the amount of acid escaping into the esophagus (44Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Drinking carbonated beverages temporarily increases the frequency of burping, which may promote acid reflux. If they worsen your symptoms, try drinking less or avoiding them altogether.

12. Don’t drink too much citrus juice

Many types of citrus juice, including orange juice and grapefruit juice, are considered common triggers for heartburn (45Trusted Source).

How To Get Rid Of Heartburn In 1 Minute

These ingredients are highly acidic and contain compounds like ascorbic acid, which could cause indigestion if you consume them in large amounts (46Trusted Source).

In addition to being acidic, certain compounds found in citrus juice could irritate the lining of the esophagus (47Trusted Source).

While citrus juice probably doesn’t cause acid reflux directly, it could make your heartburn worse temporarily.

SUMMARY

Some people with acid reflux report that drinking citrus juice makes their symptoms worse. Certain compounds in citrus juice, in addition to acids, can also irritate the lining of the esophagus.

13. Avoid mint, if needed

Peppermint and spearmint are common ingredients used to make herbal tea and add flavor to foods, candy, chewing gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste.

However, they also contain certain compounds that could trigger heartburn in some people.

For instance, some studies indicate that peppermint oil could decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure, which may cause heartburn (48Trusted Source).

Another study showed that menthol, a compound found in mint, could worsen reflux in people with GERD (49Trusted Source).

Additionally, one older study in people with GERD showed that spearmint did not affect the lower esophageal sphincter. Nevertheless, it found that high doses of spearmint could worsen acid reflux symptoms by irritating the inside of the esophagus (50Trusted Source).

For this reason, it’s best to avoid mint if you feel that it makes your heartburn worse.

SUMMARY

A few studies indicate that mint and some of the compounds it contains may aggravate heartburn and other reflux symptoms, but the evidence is limited.

14. Limit high fat foods

Fried foods and some other fatty foods may also be a trigger for GERD. Some research shows they may lead to heartburn. Examples include (51Trusted Source):

fried foods

potato chips

pizza

bacon

sausage

High fat foods like these may contribute to heartburn by causing bile salts to be released into your digestive tract, which may irritate your esophagus.

They also appear to stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone in your bloodstream that may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents back into the esophagus (52Trusted Source).

One study looked at what happened when people with GERD ate high fat foods. More than half of participants who had reported food triggers said they experienced GERD symptoms after eating high fat, fried foods (53Trusted Source).

Moreover, once these people eliminated triggering foods from their diet, the proportion of those who experienced heartburn decreased from 93% to 44% (53Trusted Source).

More research is needed to uncover how high fat foods might trigger GERD symptoms, including heartburn, as well as what kinds of fats might have the strongest effects.

It’s important to note that fats are an essential part of a healthy diet. Rather than avoiding fats, aim to eat them in moderation from healthy sources, such as omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish and monounsaturated fats from olive oil or avocados.

SUMMARY

Foods that are high in fat may trigger GERD symptoms, including heartburn, in some people. However, more research is needed.

The bottom line

Heartburn is an uncomfortable issue that can be caused by a variety of different factors.

Although there are many medications and treatment options available to ease heartburn, making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle may also be beneficial.

Try some of the tips above to find what works for you to reduce heartburn and acid reflux.

Just one thing

Try this today: Making dietary changes is one of the best ways to prevent acid reflux. Check out this guide for a list of foods you can eat to ease heartburn, plus some simple tips to identify your triggers.

How do you get rid of heartburn fast without medicine?

Despite what its name implies, heartburn has nothing to do with your heart.

Rather, it's a burning sensation in your chest that occurs when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the 10-inch tube connecting your mouth to your stomach.

When it hits, heartburn can last for just a few minutes or as long as several hours. Either way, it's uncomfortable — so it's no surprise if you're looking for a way to get rid of the sensation fast.

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What causes heartburn and what does it feel like exactly?

Stomach acid is needed to break down the food you eat, something your stomach has no trouble handling. Your esophagus, on the other hand, is irritated by it.

To keep stomach acid (and digesting food) in your stomach and out of your esophagus, a circular ring of muscle at the tube's base, called the lower esophageal sphincter, acts as a valve. When this valve is relaxed, food you've consumed is allowed to pass through to your stomach. When contracted, this valve prevents this food and acid from backing up into your esophagus.

If this valve relaxes abnormally and stomach acid is allowed to travel back into your esophagus, acid reflux occurs. Heartburn is the most well-known and obvious symptom.

It can feel differently depending on its severity, but heartburn symptoms include:

A burning sensation in your chest, behind your breastbone

Burning pain that rises up toward your throat

Having a bitter or sour taste in your mouth

Acid reflux and heartburn are sometimes caused by an underlying medical condition, or even a medication you're taking in some cases. But, more often than not, they're triggered by things like your diet and lifestyle choices — making the occasional bout of heartburn fairly common.

Common triggers of heartburn include:

Overeating or eating too quickly

Lying down too soon after eating

Consuming certain foods, including caffeine, carbonated beverages, alcohol, peppermint, citrus, tomato-based products, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods

Being overweight

Smoking

Stress and anxiety

10 home remedies for heartburn

If you're trying to avoid acid reflux or get rid of heartburn fast, here are ten ways to ease — and even prevent — your symptoms:

1. Eat a ripe banana

The high potassium content of a banana makes it a fairly alkaline food, meaning it may help counteract the stomach acid irritating your esophagus. However, unripe bananas are less alkaline, starch-heavy and may actually be an acid reflux trigger for some people. So be sure to choose a banana that's ripe. Other alkaline foods that may help offset heartburn include melons, cauliflower, fennel and nuts.

2. Chew sugar-free gum

Chewing gum increases saliva production. This works to help reduce heartburn since saliva can help promote swallowing — which can help keep acid down — and neutralize the stomach acid that's refluxed into your esophagus.

Treatments for Heartburn | Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) | Gastrointestinal Society

3. Keep a food journal and avoid trigger foods

As mentioned, certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux and heartburn. You can help identify the specific foods most likely to give you issues by keeping a food and symptom log. Once you do identify them, avoid these foods and drinks whenever possible.

4. Resist the urge to overeat or eat quickly

When it comes to preventing heartburn, watching portion sizes at meals can go a long way. Having a large amount of food in your stomach may put more pressure on the valve that keeps stomach acid out of your esophagus, making acid reflux and heartburn more likely. If you're prone to heartburn, consider eating smaller meals more frequently. Eating quickly can also be a trigger of heartburn so be sure to slow down and take time to chew food and drink beverages.

5. Avoid late meals, snacking before bed and eating before exercising

Laying down with a stomach full of food can trigger acid reflux and make heartburn symptoms worse. Avoid eating within 3 hours of your bedtime so your stomach has plenty of time to empty. You may also want to wait at least two hours before exercising.

6. Wear loose-fitting clothing

If you're prone to heartburn, tight-fitting belts and clothing that squeeze your belly may be contributing to your symptoms.

7. Adjust your sleep position

Elevating your head and chest higher than your feet as you sleep can help prevent and ease acid reflux and heartburn. You can do this using a foam wedge placed under the mattress or by raising bedposts using wood blocks. Beware of piling pillows, as this usually isn't effective and may even make your symptoms worse. Additionally, sleeping on your left side is thought to aid digestion and may work to limit stomach acid reflux.

8. Take steps to lose weight if you are overweight

Excess weight puts extra pressure on your stomach, increasing your risk of acid reflux and heartburn. Eating a well-balanced diet and getting 150 minutes of physical activity per week are the first two steps to maintaining a healthy weight and losing excess weight.

9. Stop smoking if you smoke

Smoking reduces the amount of saliva produced and impacts the effectiveness of the valve that keeps stomach acid from entering the esophagus, both of which make heartburn more likely. Quitting smoking can reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux and, in some cases, even eliminate it.

10. Reduce stress

Chronic stress takes a physical toll on your body, including slowing digestion and making you more sensitive to pain. The longer food sits in your stomach, the more likely stomach acid is to reflux. Additionally, having an increased sensitivity to pain can make you feel the burning pain of heartburn more intensely. Taking steps to reduce stress may help prevent or ease the effects of acid reflux and heartburn.

What to do if heartburn is severe or frequent

For mild, occasional heartburn, over-the-counter medications such as antacids and histamine blockers can help relieve symptoms. Always read the product label before taking an antacid or histamine blocker and never take a larger dose or take doses more frequently than directed.

If you're experiencing heartburn frequently, consult your doctor before taking heartburn medications regularly since these drugs can interfere with many other medications and affect underlying health conditions you may have.

If you have severe heartburn, as well as if it persists or worsens after taking steps to relieve it, consult your doctor. In some cases, heartburn can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or possibly a side effect of a medication you're taking.

Do bananas help heartburn?

Whether you feel it often or once in a while, heartburn can be uncomfortable and difficult to deal with. The painful, burning feeling in your throat or chest occurs when stomach acid travels into your esophagus, the part of your body that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

Heartburn can be standalone and it can also be a symptom of acid reflux, when stomach contents travel back into your esophagus, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic, severe form of acid reflux.

Fortunately, what you eat can sometimes help you to manage the painful side effects of heartburn or potentially reduce the frequency of it.

INSIDER consulted with doctors and dietitians to identify foods that can potentially help reduce the pain and frequency of heartburn.

Ginger may help to soothe inflammation in the esophagus

Ginger is a fragrant root that is commonly viewed as a stomach-soothing ingredient but this spicy food can actually help with heartburn as well.

"Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and [it] can help to reduce the inflammation of the esophagus that is associated with GERD," registered dietitian Kelly Kennedy told INSIDER.

If you find that raw ginger has too much kick to eat by itself, try tossing a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger into a smoothie or adding a few slices of the root to your tea.

Eating oatmeal and whole grains can help reduce the acid that builds up and causes heartburn

"Acid is the irritating factor in heartburn and the fiber in oatmeal and whole-grain products like whole-grain bread and pasta can help reduce it. The high fiber content of these foods helps to absorb and reduce the acid that builds up and causes heartburn," registered dietitian Emily Wunder told INSIDER.

When cooking these whole grains, you may want to avoid pairing them with ingredients that are known to trigger heartburn, like tomato or garlic.

Switching to low-fat dairy may help to reduce heartburn symptoms

The high amount of fat in some dairy products can sometimes worsen heartburn symptoms, said Wunder. She said that switching to a low-fat or non-dairy version of your favorite cheeses, dairy-based desserts, and yogurts could potentially help to reduce these symptoms.

Eating apples may help to decrease the frequency of heartburn

Apples are a convenient and healthy snack that can also potentially help to reduce acid reflux symptoms. These fruits are actually packed with pectin, a soluble dietary fiber that's been found to sometimes decrease the frequency of heartburn.

"Soluble fiber is needed to help regulate digestion and has been shown to decrease heartburn in some studies," registered dietitian Jeanette Kimszal told INSIDER. "Apples are also a rich source of minerals [like] calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are helpful for lowering stomach acid."

Consuming aloe vera can sometimes help reduce symptoms of acid reflux

Aloe vera might be known for being a key ingredient in creams meant to soothe sunburns, but it can also be useful for reducing the symptoms of acid reflux, including heartburn.

"Aloe vera is famous as a natural healing agent and also appears to reduce gastric acid levels naturally. It is available as a living plant but the leaves or liquid form are sometimes sold separately in grocery and health food stores," bariatric surgeon Dr. Michael Jay Nusbaum told INSIDER. He also said the liquid form of aloe can be used as a thickening agent when preparing certain dishes.

Liquid aloe vera can have a slightly sour taste, so you may want to add a drizzle of honey if you plan to consume it undiluted. And if you want your aloe vera to be as fresh as possible, you can keep a live plant in your home and remove its leaves as needed.

Eating bananas may help to settle your stomach

bananas

Sliced bananas can be put on top of oatmeal. Sandra Mu/Getty Images

A portable healthy snack, bananas can sometimes aid in reducing the frequency of heartburn. Dr. Nusbaum told INSIDER that a banana's natural pH can help settle the stomach and he said he recommends them to those who suffer from acid reflux.

However, Dr. Nusbaum said about 1% of patients with acid reflux find that their condition is actually worsened by bananas. So before using bananas as your go-to solution to acid reflux symptoms, you may want to test how your body reacts to them first.

Fennel is a flavorful herb that may help settle the stomach

Fennel is a crunchy herb that looks like a cross between onion and celery even though it's actually a member of the carrot family.

"[Fennel's] neutral pH helps settle the stomach. It is a great food for acid reflux and actually seems to improve stomach function through improving gastric motility," said Dr. Nusbaum.

Fennel can be consumed raw or cooked and its seeds can be used to add flavor to dishes like chicken and fish.

Chewing sugar-free gum might help with reducing heartburn

When heartburn strikes, you may want to try chewing on a stick of sugar-free gum. A 2005 study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that chewing gum could cause you to swallow more frequently which can help improve how quickly acid reflux is cleared from your esophagus.

"Chewing sugar-free gum for half an hour after a meal can reduce heartburn as it raises pH levels in the throat," internal medicine specialist Dr. John La Puma told INSIDER. Since a pH below seven is considered to be acidic, the higher your pH level is, the less acidic it is.

Though chewing gum is no substitute for eating well and seeking medical care, doing so might help you to cope with heartburn in a pinch.

Miso soup can help reduce symptoms of GERD

Miso soup is a traditional Japanese dish made with miso paste (a fermented soybean seasoning).

Ulcer, Heartburn, Acid Reflux - Natural Treatment / No Need Of Medicines | Dr. Vivek

"Daily intake of miso soup lowers GERD symptoms, including dyspepsia (indigestion) and [acid] reflux," said Dr. La Puma.

Eating spinach can potentially help reduce stomach acidity

spinach calcium

Spinach has high levels of alkaline. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

"Spinach is rich in calcium, which increases bone health, and it's highly alkaline, which helps the stomach to reduce acidity levels," Scabardi said. Spinach is a versatile ingredient that can be added to recipes or smoothies in order to get the most out of its potentially soothing impact on heartburn.

Consuming lean proteins instead of fatty ones might help you to avoid triggering heartburn

A common dietary trigger of heartburn is consuming excess fat, which can be found in fried foods or certain meats like beef or lamb. Opting for leaner protein sources can potentially help to prevent acid reflux.

"Choose lean sources of protein like grilled chicken or turkey, egg whites, and even beans or legumes. These protein sources are lower in acid than red meat with very little fat," registered dietitian Katie Hughes told INSIDER.

You may also want to bake or broil proteins instead of frying them if you're trying to avoid triggering acid reflux, as frying foods can increase the fat content of a dish.

Why is heartburn worse at night?

Whether after eating food with tomato sauce or wearing tight pants, you dread that unpleasant burning sensation in your chest. If you’re suffering from heartburn, you’re not alone. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, more than 60 million Americans have heartburn at least once a month, and 15 million experience it every day. Elderly people and pregnant women are more likely to experience symptoms of heartburn.

Heartburn, or acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux), occurs when liquids in the stomach flow back into the esophagus. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach, relaxes. During eating, the LES relaxes to let food into the stomach and contracts to prevent backflow into the esophagus. Even in people who don’t experience acid reflux, stomach acid may travel into the esophagus for brief periods without symptoms.

Why Do You Get Reflux More at Night?

You may experience more reflux at night than during the day. The reason for this is gravity. When you sit or stand, gravity helps move the food through your esophagus and into the stomach. When you’re laying down, you lose the effect of gravity on the food traveling through your digestive system. Laying down also prevents gravity from keeping bile and acids from traveling up into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Because of this, many people find their heartburn is worse at night.

How to Reduce Nighttime Heartburn

Lose Weight. People who are overweight (a BMI of 25 or above) are more likely to suffer from heartburn. If you have a BMI of 25 or above and you want to lose weight, our nutrition counseling services may be able to help.

Stop Smoking. A study found that patients GERD improved by more than 40 percent after they stopped smoking. In the same study, the people who didn’t quit smoking saw a less than 20 percent improvement. Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do to improve GERD symptoms. It also improves your overall health.

Change Your Eating Habits. For those suffering from chronic heartburn, smaller, less fatty meals may offer relief. Aim for less than 500 calories and 20 grams of fat. After eating, wait at least three hours before going to bed. It takes four to five hours for the stomach to fully digest a meal, and waiting three hours after eating will make you much more comfortable.

Use Medications. Proton pump inhibitors are commonly prescribed to control acid reflux.

Consider Food Sensitivities When Making Choices. During meal planning and preparation, keep your food sensitivities in mind. Avoid foods that can trigger digestive problems. These foods may include tomatoes, lemons, dairy products, or alcohol.

Use a Body Pillow. A body pillow or other sleep positioning implement will keep you on your left side. Lying on your left side allows acids to pass through the lower esophageal sphincter into the stomach. Make sure your head is elevated, too, as this allows gravity to work.

If you have tried some or all of these suggestions, and you’re still experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, request an appointment today.

Why do I all of a sudden have heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning pain in your chest, just behind your breastbone. The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over.

Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.

Heartburn that is more frequent or interferes with your daily routine may be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires medical care.

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Book: Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health

Symptoms

Symptoms of heartburn include:

A burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night

Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over

Bitter or acidic taste in the mouth

When to see a doctor

Seek immediate help if you experience severe chest pain or pressure, especially when combined with other signs and symptoms such as pain in the arm or jaw or difficulty breathing. Chest pain may be a symptom of a heart attack.

Make an appointment with your doctor if:

Heartburn occurs more than twice a week

Symptoms persist despite use of over-the-counter medications

You have difficulty swallowing

You have persistent nausea or vomiting

You have weight loss because of poor appetite or difficulty eating

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Causes

How GERD occurs in the esophagus

How heartburn and GERD occurOpen pop-up dialog box

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus).

Normally when you swallow, a band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. Then the muscle tightens again.

Fix Heartburn & Acid Reflux - Dr Alan Mandell, DC

If the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus (acid reflux) and cause heartburn. The acid backup may be worse when you're bent over or lying down.

More Information

Acid reflux and GERD

Heartburn and hiatal hernia

Risk factors

Certain foods and drinks can trigger heartburn in some people, including:

Spicy foods

Onions

Citrus products

Tomato products, such as ketchup

Fatty or fried foods

Peppermint

Chocolate

Alcohol, carbonated beverages, coffee or other caffeinated beverages

Large or fatty meals

Being overweight or pregnant also can increase your risk of experiencing heartburn.

Complications

Heartburn that occurs frequently and interferes with your routine is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD treatment may require prescription medications and, occasionally, surgery or other procedures. GERD can seriously damage your esophagus or lead to precancerous changes in the esophagus called

What foods cause heartburn?

What triggers heartburn can be, well, a burning question. Here's what you need to know about the common causes of heartburn and what you can do to prevent the pain.

Heartburn triggers: What's burning you?

The specific triggers for heartburn differ from person to person. Mama Mia's marinara may always spell trouble for you, but your spouse may lick the plate clean and sit back with a satisfied belly and a smile.

What can lead to heartburn may surprise you. Stay away from foods you know will give you heartburn. It's not just about the food you eat. How and when you exercise and what you take to relieve your aches and pains may also cause that burning feeling. The key to taming the flame is to understand what triggers your own personal symptoms.

Heartburn triggers: Large meals and fatty foods

A big greasy burger and supersized serving of fries right before bedtime is a good way to fuel the flame of heartburn. Fatty foods, large portions, and late-night meals are the top three triggers that affect many people with heartburn.

Heartburn is most common after eating a large meal. A belly full of too much food stretches the stomach, causing you to feel "stuffed." Stomach stretching, or distention, puts pressure on the LES, the ring of muscle that keeps stomach acids from moving in the wrong direction. So juices from your last meal may come back to haunt you. This can happen when eating large amounts of any food, not just foods known to trigger your heartburn symptoms.

Fatty foods are big no-nos if you suffer from heartburn. High-fat foods sit around in your belly longer. This makes your stomach produce more acid, irritating your digestive system. And fatty and greasy foods lead to a lazy, relaxed LES. So not only do you have more irritating stomach acids, you're more likely to have the contents splash back up your throat. Ouch!

Heartburn triggers: Heartburn and diet

A number of foods and drinks can cause the LES to relax. Food and drinks that commonly trigger heartburn include:

alcohol, particularly red wine

black pepper, garlic, raw onions, and other spicy foods

chocolate

citrus fruits and products, such as lemons, oranges and orange juice

coffee and caffeinated drinks, including tea and soda

peppermint

tomatoes

However, unless these foods are causing you heartburn you don't have to avoid them. To prevent heartburn after meals:

Don't overeat. Eat five or six small meals each day, instead of several large meals.

Don't eat before bedtime. Allow 2 hours to digest your food before lying down. This allows time for the food to pass out of the stomach and into the small intestine, rather than having it back up into the esophagus. Lying down makes digestion difficult and makes heartburn more likely.

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Heartburn triggers: Heartburn and exercise

Need an excuse to skip the sit-ups? Crunches and ab work can trigger heartburn. Body positions that involve bending over increase pressure on the abdomen, thrusting stomach acids back up into the esophagus. So you feel the burn -- but not the type you'd expect from going to the gym. Keep in mind that leg lifts also work the abdominal muscles and may aggravate heartburn symptoms too.

Activities such as headstands and yoga moves like downward dog can reverse the natural flow of stomach contents and may trigger heartburn. Jarring exercises, such as jogging or aerobics, can slosh stomach contents around and upward if you have a weak LES.

Heartburn is no reason not to exercise. In fact, weight loss from exercise can actually help heartburn. But never exercise on a full stomach. Doing so increases abdominal pressure, which makes heartburn more likely. Food takes several hours to digest so it really is a matter of what works for you. Most experts recommend waiting about two hours after eating before working out.

Heartburn triggers: Heartburn and medications

Many different medications can trigger heartburn, or make heartburn worse. An aspirin here or there is not likely to lead to that fiery feeling. But regular use of aspirin or a popular class of painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may irritate the esophagus. NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and prescription Cox-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex. These drugs are often used to treat arthritis.

Several different types of blood pressure medicines can also cause heartburn. Many blood pressure and heart disease medicines, including calcium channel blockers and nitrates, relax the LES muscle, making it easy for your stomach acids to retreat backwards.

Several other types of medications are known to relax the LES muscle and lead to heartburn. They include:

An asthma medicine called theophylline, taken by mouth

Sedatives

Narcotic painkillers

Progesterone, a hormone found in some birth control pills

Medicines for Parkinson's disease

Tricyclic antidepressants

Certain supplements such as iron and potassium

Chemotherapy drugs and a class of osteoporosis medicines called bisphosphates can injure the lining of the esophagus and make heartburn more likely. Taking your osteoporosis medicine with a big glass of water and avoiding lying down for 30 minutes to an hour helps to prevent problems.

Always tell your doctor if a new prescription or over-the-counter medicine gives you heartburn or makes your heartburn worse. Your doctor may be able to suggest alternatives.

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Tracking heartburn triggers

Heartburn can limit your menu choices, interrupt your sleep, and interfere with your daily activities. Keeping tabs on what you eat and when you eat will help your doctor determine what's causing your symptoms. Then together, you can figure out how to prevent them. You can track heartburn triggers by keeping a heartburn diary. Make sure you include notes about portion size -- and be honest! If you have pain after eating a certain food, write that down, too.

Your diary should include the following information for each day:

what you eat and drink, and when

time and type of exercise

medicines you take and the time you take them

if you have pain, and if so, when your pain started (for example, did the heartburn happen after you ate breakfast or took an aspirin?)

what the pain feels like

what makes it feel better

Remember, understanding your heartburn triggers and learning how to avoid them can help you dodge the discomfort of heartburn. An episode of heartburn every now and then is usually nothing to worry about. But call your doctor if you have heartburn frequently or if severe heartburn that interferes with your daily activities. You may need further evaluation of your heartburn of a medication to help prevent it. If you have trouble swallowing or develop black stools, see your doctor right away. These could be signs of a more serious condition. If your heartburn is severe or not relieved with medication, you may need an endoscopy.

What can I drink for heartburn at night?

Heartburn happens when the muscular valve called the sphincter relaxes and stomach acid flows back into your esophagus. Some habits and foods can make this worse, especially at night.

What are the worst foods for heartburn?

One of the first nighttime heartburn tips is to avoid foods that can make heartburn worse.

1. Limit coffee

Coffee and caffeine can lower sphincter pressure, causing it to relax and acid to backflow. Try drinking less coffee, especially in the evening or towards the end of the day.

2. Eat less acidic food

Avoid acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, and chocolate. If you enjoy these foods, the key is moderation. Try eating less of these foods at night.

3. Avoid fried, fatty foods

Fried foods can be triggers for some people. Avoid fried fast food and cook grilled or roasted meals at home.

4. Limit alcohol

Alcohol can stimulate extra stomach acid and relax the esophageal sphincter, contributing to acid backflow. If you find you get heartburn after drinking alcohol, try drinking less.

5. Avoid spicy foods

Spicy foods are common heartburn triggers as they can irritate your esophagus and sphincter. Swap your spices for fresh herbs or eat a bland diet.

6. Avoid carbonated drinks

Sodas and sparkling drinks make you belch, which can lead to acid reflux and heartburn symptoms.

7. Avoid peppermint tea

Both peppermint and spearmint can relax your esophagus valve and worsen heartburn.

What foods get rid of heartburn?

Eating certain foods can also help relieve heartburn symptoms.

8. Drink ginger tea

Ginger is an ancient remedy used for the digestive system. It can help relieve irritation and inflammation in your esophagus and digestive tract.

9. Eat fennel

Fennel is another soothing digestive remedy. Try grilling this low-acid vegetable as a hot vegetable dish, or drink fennel tea.

10. Eat mild vegetables

Mild vegetables like lettuce, celery, cucumbers, and sweet peppers are gentle on the stomach and don’t cause gas. Less belching can help relieve heartburn symptoms.

11. Enjoy melons

If citrus fruits make your heartburn worse, try swapping them for melons. They’re low in acid and a healthy option.

12. Try oatmeal

Whole grains like oatmeal are high in fiber, which makes you feel full for longer. You might be less likely to overeat, which can ease heartburn.

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How do you stop getting heartburn?

Making changes to your eating habits can also ease heartburn.

13. Stay upright

Lying down after eating can put pressure on your sphincter, making it relax. Stay upright after eating.

14. Don’t overeat

Eating too much and too often keeps your stomach full and creates pressure against your valve.

15. Eat smaller portions

Try eating small amounts more often to keep pressure off your sphincter. This can help relieve symptoms.

16. Take your time

Make your meals slow and intentional. Eating too quickly puts pressure on that valve, leading to symptoms.

17. Wait to exercise

Bending over, jumping around, and bouncing can worsen heartburn symptoms for some people. Give your system time to digest food before you exercise.

18. Avoid late snacks

Late-night snacking can lead to overeating. Eat nutrient-dense foods during the day to stay full and avoid late snacks.

19. Lose weight

Extra weight puts pressure on your esophageal sphincter. Keeping a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for heartburn.

20. Stop smoking

Tobacco in cigarettes is known to affect sphincter function. Smoking also causes lots of other problems like heart disease. Stop smoking.

21. Avoid NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs cause irritation in your digestive tract. If you often take ibuprofen, try a different pain reliever.

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What helps heartburn fast at night?

These tips can quickly help relieve nighttime heartburn.

22. Prop yourself up in bed

Keeping yourself upright in bed can help take some pressure off your stomach and valve and relieve symptoms.

23. Try baking soda and water

Baking soda can help neutralize acid. Try drinking a half teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 4 ounces of warm water.

24. Take antacids

You can buy antacids from your pharmacy. These work by changing your stomach acid that causes heartburn.

25. Try over-the-counter histamine-2 blockers

Histamine-2 blockers help heartburn by changing how much acid your stomach makes. These can relieve symptoms for a few hours.

26. Try OTC proton pump inhibitors

You can try these medications from your pharmacy if nothing else is working. These should only be taken for 14 days at a time and only 3 times a year.

27. Take prescription medications

If nothing helps your heartburn, talk to your doctor. They can give you stronger prescription medications.

28. Surgery

Sometimes surgery on your esophagus sphincter can help heartburn that doesn’t get better with treatment. Talk to your doctor about ongoing heartburn.

What gets rid of heartburn at night?

Nighttime heartburn affects four out of five people who suffer regular heartburn and acid reflux. The discomfort and bitter taste can make sleep uncomfortable, even elusive.

While over-the-counter and prescription drugs can treat symptoms once you have heartburn, "the cornerstone of treatment for any disease or disorder is prevention," say Lawrence J. Cheskin, MD, and Brian E. Lacy, MD, PhD, in their book Healing Heartburn.

Fortunately, sometimes all it takes to prevent nighttime heartburn is a few lifestyle changes. WebMD turned to the heartburn experts to get their tips on stopping nighttime heartburn before it hits -- so you can sleep well tonight.

12 Tips for Nighttime Heartburn Relief

1. Sleep on your left side.This position seems to help reduce nighttime heartburn symptoms, says David A. Johnson, MD, internal medicine division chief at Eastern Virginia School of Medicine, Norfolk, Va. To remember which side to sleep on, Johnson offers this memory trick: Right is wrong.

2. Lose weight, even a little. Heartburn often just gets worse as you gain weight, but losing as little as two and a half pounds can help reduce heartburn symptoms, Johnson says.

3. Sleep with your upper body elevated. When you lay flat in bed, your throat and stomach are basically at the same level, making it easy for stomach acids to flow up your esophagus, causing heartburn. You can elevate your body in two ways:

Put the head of your bed on 4- to 6-inch blocks.

Sleep on a wedge-shaped pillow that's at least 6 to 10 inches thick on one end. Don't substitute regular pillows; they just raise your head, and not your entire upper body.

4. Wear loose-fitting clothes. Tight clothes, especially near your waist, can put pressure on your stomach, leading to heartburn symptoms.

5. Avoid foods that trigger your heartburn. Foods that trigger heartburn differ from person to person. Common foods and drinks that can cause heartburn and interrupt sleep include alcohol; caffeinated drinks like colas, coffee, and tea; chocolate and cocoa; peppermint; garlic; onions; milk; fatty, spicy, greasy, or fried foods; and acidic foods like citrus or tomato products. Keep a food diary to help you track which foods may trigger your heartburn.

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6. Steer clear of late-night meals or big meals. Avoid eating meals two to three hours before bedtime to reduce stomach acid and allow the stomach to partially empty its contents before you sleep, suggests the American Gastroenterological Association. Because large meals put pressure on your stomach, try eating a smaller meal in the evening to help prevent nighttime heartburn symptoms.

7. Relax when you eat. Feeling stressed when you eat in a rush can cause the stomach to produce more stomach acids. Relax after your meal as well -- but don't lay down. Some pros recommend trying relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

8. Stay upright after eating. This reduces the risk of acid creeping up your esophagus. You'll also want to avoid bending over or straining to lift heavy objects.

9. Wait to exercise. Allow a couple of hours after a meal before rigorous exercise. This gives your stomach time to empty itself.

10. Chew gum. Chewing gum encourages the production of saliva, which can soothe your esophagus and wash acid down into your stomach.

11. Quit smoking.Smoking is a double threat when it comes to heartburn. Not only can cigarette smoke irritate your GI tract, but smoking can also relax the esophageal muscles that keep stomach acid where it belongs.

12. Talk to your doctor about the medications you take. Some medications may cause or worsen heartburn, including NSAIDs, some osteoporosis drugs, some heart and blood pressure drugs, some hormone medications, some asthma medications, and some depression medications. Just as everyone's food triggers for heartburn can be different, so can medication triggers.

Heartburn: When You Should See Your Doctor

If lifestyle changes don't help you manage your heartburn, it may be time for medication or other treatment. Call your doctor if:

Your heartburn doesn't go away.

You have trouble swallowing.

Your heartburn causes vomiting.

You still have heartburn after using antacids for two weeks.

Never ignore persistent heartburn. Left untreated, chronic acid reflux can scar and narrow your esophagus, cautions Gary Gitnick, MD, chief of digestive diseases/gastroenterology at UCLA. At its worst, untreated chronic heartburn -- a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) -- can develop into esophageal cancer.

What are the side effects of having ginger?

WHAT IS GINGER AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Ginger is an herbal supplement, which can be used as a natural remedy in treatment of antiemetic, carminative, stimulant and also as an anti-inflammatory. It can be effective in treatment of dyspepsia, migraine headache, morning sickness, nausea (chemo induced), post-operative nausea and/or vomiting, osteoarthritis, respiratory infections, rheumatoid arthritis and for SSRI taper/discontinuation.

Demonstrated antiemetic efficacy in pregnancy, postoperative nausea and vomiting and vertigo. It is possibly ineffective for motion sickness.

Insufficient reliable data to rate use in chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting, migraine headache, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Ginger is available under the following different brand names: African ginger, black ginger, cochin ginger, Imber, Jamaica ginger, race ginger, rhizoma zingerberis, rhizome, sheng jiang, Shokyo, zingibain, Zingiber officinale, and Zingiberis.

WHAT ARE DOSAGES OF GINGER?

Dosages of Ginger Should Be Given As Follows:

Dosages vary between 250 mg – 1 g.

Dosage Considerations

Migraine Headache

500 mg by mouth every 4 hours as need, no more than 1.5-2 grams per day.

Morning Sickness

250 mg by mouth 4 times daily or 500 mg by mouth 2 times daily.

Nausea or vomiting in Pregnancy

250 mg powder by mouth 4 times daily, may take up to 6 grams per day.

Motion Sickness (Powdered Root)

1 g by mouth 30 minutes-4 hours before travel.

Nausea, Chemo-induced (Powdered Root)

1-4 grams per day by mouth, no more than 4 grams per day.

Osteoarthritis (Extract)

170 mg by mouth 3 times daily or

255 mg by mouth 2 times daily, no more than 4 grams per day.

SSRI Taper/Discontinuation

550-1100 mg by mouth 3 times daily; no more than 4 grams per day.

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WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH USING GINGER?

Side effects of ginger include:

increased bleeding tendency

abdominal discomfort

cardiac arrhythmias (if overdosed)

central nervous system depression (if overdosed)

dermatitis (with topical use)

diarrhea

heartburn

mouth or throat irritation.

WHAT OTHER DRUGS INTERACT WITH GINGER?

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist first.

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Ginger has mild interactions with at least 73 different drugs.

Ginger has mild interactions with the following 13 different drugs:

abciximab

anagrelide

anamu

cilostazol

clopidogrel

danshen

devil's claw

dipyridamole

eptifibatide

green tea

prasugrel

ticlopidine

tirofiban

This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist. Check with your physician if you have health questions or concerns.

WHAT ARE WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS FOR GINGER?

Warnings

Ginger may cause hypersensitivity and gallbladder disease.

This medication contains ginger. Do not take African ginger, black ginger, cochin ginger, imber, Jamaica ginger, race ginger, rhizoma zingerberis, rhizome, sheng jiang, shokyo, zingibain, zingiber officinale, or zingiberis, if you are allergic to ginger or any ingredients contained in this drug.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Contraindications

Do not use if you have a hypersensitivity or gallbladder disease.

Effects of Drug Abuse

There are no effects of drug abuse associated with the use of ginger.

Short-Term Effects

There are no short-term effects associated with the use of ginger.

Long-Term Effects

There are no long-term effects associated with the use of ginger.

Cautions

If you have any bleeding disorder, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure (hypertension), or low blood pressure (hypotension), consult with your physician.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use in pregnancy is not recommended by German Commission E, however, current data indicates ginger is safe if used at usual therapeutic doses.

Is ginger bad for acid reflux?

Typically brought on by food triggers and accompanied by indigestion and heartburn, acid reflux is a common condition that affects almost all of us at least once in our lives.

Stomach acid or bile flows into their food pipe, irritating the lining and causing symptoms like heartburn.

As many as 20% of Americans suffer from this condition every day.

After a few hours, acid reflux should disappear on its own or with the aid of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

Some people who suffer from acid reflux try to ease their symptoms with herbal remedies, including ginger. But does it work?

In this article, I’ll provide some more detail on acid reflux, including its causes and symptoms.

I’ll talk about ginger as a potential treatment for acid reflux, and how to take it.

I’ll also outline other treatments for acid reflux, And I’ll tell you when you should talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux can occur if you have eaten too much, too quickly, or a food that triggers acid production in your stomach.

It’s unpleasant, tastes horrible, and you may feel like there’s no way to relieve your symptoms—since lying down tends to make it worse.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid or bile enters the lower esophageal sphincter and irritates the esophagus lining, causing chest and throat burn, upper abdominal pain, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and sometimes gassiness or belching.

If you’ve ever felt these uncomfortable symptoms after eating a plate of greasy food, a large meal, or drinking orange juice, you likely experienced acid reflux.

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Symptoms

You may experience any or all the following symptoms:

Upper, central abdominal pain

Dyspepsia (indigestion): An upset stomach that can be categorized by burping, belching, bloating, and heartburn.

Dysphagia: A feeling of food being stuck in your throat.

Heartburn: Burning pain that can travel from your stomach up to your chest or throat.

Nausea

Regurgitation: A sour or bitter taste in your mouth or throat that you may experience as wet burps or dry heaving.

Causes

Acid reflux can be brought on by any of the following health-related issues:

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Hiatal hernia: This is when the upper part of the stomach bulges through your diaphragm (the muscle that separates your stomach from your chest). Your diaphragm helps keep acid in your stomach. If you have a hiatal hernia, acid can move freely into your esophagus triggering acid reflux.

Pregnancy: You are also more likely to get acid reflux from the pressure put on your stomach.

Obesity: Being overweight increases the pressure on your stomach.

In addition, acid reflux can be caused by a range of food triggers, including:

Fried, greasy, or fatty foods

Spicy foods

Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and juices

Tomatoes and red sauces

Chocolate

Peppermint

Alcohol

Carbonated beverages

Coffee (both regular and decaf) and caffeinated beverages

Can Ginger be Used to Treat Acid Reflux?

Ginger has been found to have several benefits for gastrointestinal health: It helps with stomach emptying and may provide nausea relief.

But there is no medical evidence that specifically ties ginger to acid reflux relief.

How it works

While there is no scientific evidence that ginger relieves acid reflux, and several studies showed that ginger does not relieve acid reflux symptoms, research does show that ginger can be beneficial for nausea relief– as effective as some over-the-counter and prescription nausea medications.

How to take It?

Consider steeping ginger root in hot water or buying pure ginger tea.

Drink a cup as needed for nausea.

Other Treatments for Acid Reflux

In most cases, acid reflux will go away after a few hours on its own.

It may subside even faster with medications.

You can treat your acid reflux with other home remedies, lifestyle changes, and over-the-counter medications.

Home remedies

Chew gum: According to a 2005 study, chewing gum when experiencing acid reflux could induce increased swallowing frequency. This helps the esophagus clear out the acid.

Lifestyle changes

Lose weight if you are overweight

Stay well hydrated

Quit smoking

Avoid food triggers such as citrus fruits, spicy foods, and greasy foods

Eat smaller meals

Don’t eat a large meal within three hours of lying down or going to bed

Sleep with your head elevated

Avoid coffee and caffeinated beverages

Avoid clothing that is restrictive around the waist or abdomen

Medications

Antacids: OTC antacids are usually the first-line recommendation for acid reflux and heartburn because of their availability and low risk of side effects. They work by neutralizing acids in your stomach and can provide fast, short-term relief. You can find them in a variety of forms—including chewables, dissolving tablets, and liquids. Some examples of antacids include calcium carbonate (Tums), simethicone (Mylanta, Maalox), and sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer).

Histamine-2 (H2) Blockers: H2 blockers are available by prescription and OTC. They can reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces to help alleviate heartburn. H2 blockers don’t work as quickly to reduce heartburn as antacids, but the effect can last longer. Examples include famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR), and ranitidine (Zantac 75).

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs also work to reduce stomach acid. They can be especially effective when antacids or H2 blockers haven’t worked. Recently, some PPIs have become available OTC, including esomeprazole (Nexium) and omeprazole (Prilosec). Other PPIs, like rabeprazole (AcipHex), are only available with a prescription. Research shows that long-term use of PPIs can lead to kidney problems, including kidney failure. Experts recommend using PPIs only when necessary and not as a regular medication.

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When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms of acid reflux and have explored your treatment options with home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle changes, talk to your doctor or primary care provider.

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Your healthcare provider will be able to determine if acid reflux is part of a more serious health condition.

Mild cases of acid reflux can be treated with most over-the-counter medicines, but recurring symptoms or severe symptoms could indicate a more serious health condition.

Your doctor or primary care provider can help you figure out if a referral to a gastroenterologist is needed- they can perform studies such as endoscopy or esophageal pH monitoring, if appropriate for your condition.

In some cases, your doctor may also want to do a blood, breath, or stool test to determine if your recurring GERD is the result of a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics, or due to a food allergy or sensitivity

If you are unsure about whether you should see a doctor or not, consider any of the following symptoms as signs you should seek medical attention immediately:

Severe chest pain

A choking sensation in your throat or difficulty swallowing

Pain in the neck, jaw, or arm,

Vomiting blood or dark brown material

Dramatic weight loss

A chronic cough

Black, tarry stools

In rare cases, when your symptoms are prolonged and do not respond to other treatments, a gastroenterologist may recommend a surgery called fundoplication to tighten and reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to take ginger for acid reflux?

There is no medical evidence that ginger provides acid reflux relief. Most research on ginger is tied to its nausea relieving properties. For this, take ginger supplements, ginger root, or tea as needed when you are experiencing nausea.

What is the most effective way to get rid of acid reflux?

Over the counter antacids are typically effective for occasion acid reflux. In addition, avoid lying down and loosen any clothes that are tight around your abdomen or waist. Avoid eating or drinking more food or fluids until your symptoms are improved.

Can ginger be taken long-term to alleviate acid reflux?

No. There is no scientific evidence that ginger has any use for alleviating acid reflux. While it is considered safe to use long-term for nausea, if you suffer from acid reflux regularly, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can devise a medical treatment plan that is best for you.

How do you get rid of heartburn from ginger?

Ginger has been used worldwide as a natural cure-all for everything from malaria to baldness, but it is most commonly celebrated as a remedy for digestive problems. Because of the vast range of gastrointestinal issues, researchers continue to “dig deeper” to find more uses for this spicy, fragrant root (Source: Web MD).

Scientists are especially curious about whether ginger can relieve acid reflux and symptoms of heartburn. A 2011 study found that participants who took ginger supplements showed reduced levels of inflammation within one month. This could be due to the phenolic compounds in ginger, which can ease stomach irritation. Phenols are also known to reduce gastric contractions that might allow acid from the stomach to flow up into the esophagus (Source: Healthline).

Currently, most studies on ginger are limited to its nausea-reducing effects, so there is certainly room for more research on ginger’s effectiveness against acid reflux and heartburn. However, there is no denying that cultures worldwide have been using ginger to soothe digestive conditions for generations. According to Home Remedies for Life, ginger can also help:

Regulate the flow of juices in the GI tract to promote food absorption

Absorb excess stomach acid

Speed the digestion process

Tighten the lower esophageal sphincter between the stomach and esophagus

So whether you seek relief from rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain, cough, respiratory problems, migraine headaches, bronchitis, tooth aches, snake bites or just common heartburn, give ginger a try!

Here is a recipe for ginger root tea that includes only four ingredients.

Ginger Root Tea

SIDE EFFECTS OF MEDICINES FOR ACID REFLUX DISEASE- How to treat Acidity

Peel and mince a piece of one-inch ginger root.

Boil 1 cup of water and add ginger pieces.

Boil water and ginger together for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat. Cover with lid and let steep for 20 minutes.

Strain and stir in ½ teaspoon honey and lemon juice to taste.

You can enjoy a cup of ginger root tea up to two times per day to help relieve heartburn. Remember that ginger should be used occasionally as a natural treatment for heartburn relief and should not be a permanent solution.

Chronic heartburn could be a warning sign of something more serious, so pay attention to your symptoms and call your doctor if your symptoms last more than two weeks or worsen.

People can make ginger tea using fresh ginger or a store-bought tea bag. Although ginger is generally safe, some people may experience mild side effects — such as heartburn, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain — after consuming it.

This article will discuss the potential side effects of ginger tea, alongside some possible benefits.

It will also look at the safety of consuming ginger tea during pregnancy.

Side effects

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According to one 2019 systematic reviewTrusted Source, ginger can cause mild side effects. However, this is rare.

Some side effects — such as heartburn, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort — might occur when a person consumes more than 5 grams (g)Trusted Source of it per day.

The sections below will look at these potential side effects in more detail.

Heartburn

Heartburn occurs due to acid reflux causing a burning sensation in the lower chest.

In one 2020 systematic reviewTrusted Source, 16 out of the 109 studies and reviews the researchers examined reported heartburn as an adverse side effect.

However, a 2014 articleTrusted Source notes that consuming 1 g to 1.5 g of dried ginger per day can actually help treat heartburn.

Digestive effects

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)Trusted Source note that ginger may cause:

abdominal pain, or stomachache

gas and bloating

diarrhea

However, according to one 2016 articleTrusted Source, ginger can increase gastric emptying. This, in turn, can help relieve the symptoms of abdominal pain.

Home remedies for Heartburn

Also, a 2019 articleTrusted Source states that ginger can decrease the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, which can work to reduce gas and bloating.

Bleeding

Ginger may encourage bleeding. This is because it inhibitsTrusted Source platelet thromboxane. This is a substance that platelets make that causes the blood to clot and constricts the blood vessels.

There are also concerns that ginger may interact with blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, according to the NCCIHTrusted Source.

For this reason, people should avoid consuming ginger before undergoing surgery. Those with bleeding disorders should also talk with a doctor before consuming any form of ginger.

Benefits

Although ginger tea can cause some side effects, it also has some potential health benefits.

The sections below will look at these in more detail.

Reduced nausea and vomiting

Gingerols and shogaols, which are active compounds in ginger, may help relieve nausea and vomiting.

In one 2015 reviewTrusted Source, the researchers found that ginger extracts may help relieve pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting, as well as chemotherapy-induced nausea.

A 2016 articleTrusted Source suggests that using ginger may be an inexpensive, effective, and safe way to help relieve nausea and vomiting in those who are pregnant or undergoing chemotherapy.

Pain relief

Ginger may also help relieve pain and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

One studyTrusted Source involved 60 adults with acute migraine. They reported relief after using 400 milligrams of ginger extract alongside nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

A 2020 systematic reviewTrusted Source suggests that ginger may also be able to relieve menstrual pain, as well as pain that occurs due to osteoarthritis.

Ginger may also help relieve muscle pain. A small studyTrusted Source involving 49 participants found that ginger decreased muscle soreness in athletes.

Weight loss

Ginger tea may help a person lose weight. For example, one 2018 reviewTrusted Source suggests that ginger may aid weight loss by:

suppressing lipogenesis, which is the metabolic process that contributes to the storage of fat

inhibiting intestinal fat absorption

controlling appetite

Better blood sugar control

Ginger tea may also help people with type 2 diabetes achieve better blood sugar control.

Researchers sawTrusted Source that consuming 2 g of ginger per day reduced fasting blood sugar and other vital indicators of diabetes.

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For this reason, ginger may have a role in helping control blood sugar levels.

Improved heart health

Ginger tea may help improve heart health and lower blood pressure.

Some researchTrusted Source suggests that a daily intake of ginger may help lower the risk of chronic heart conditions by:

lowering hypertension

preventing heart attacks

lowering cholesterol

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Is ginger tea safe?

Ginger tea is safe to drink. However, people should avoid consuming more than 5 gTrusted Source of it per day.

The NCCIHTrusted Source suggest that those with gallstone disease should be cautious when using ginger. This is because it may increase the flow of bile.

During pregnancy

One studyTrusted Source examined 1,020 people who used ginger during pregnancy. The researchers conclude that using ginger during pregnancy did not increase the chance of:

stillbirth

a low birth weight

preterm birth

a low Apgar score, which is a test to check the newborn’s heart rate, muscle tone, and other signs

However, pregnant people should still consult a healthcare provider before consuming ginger.

How to make ginger tea

A person can make ginger tea using store-bought tea bags. However, if they want to make their own ginger tea, they can do so using:

Fresh ginger: Boil thinly sliced pieces of ginger for a few minutes.

Dried ginger: Pour boiling water over the dried ginger and let the tea steep.

Powdered ginger: Stir a small amount of powdered ginger into some boiling water.

Summary

The side effects of ginger tea may vary from person to person. It may cause heartburn, stomach upset, diarrhea, and bloating.

Although ginger tea comes with several side effects, it may also offer a wide range of benefits, including:

Can anxiety and stress cause heartburn?

pain relief

better blood sugar control

reduced nausea from morning sickness and chemotherapy

improved heart health

reduced hypertension

However, pregnant people and those with gallstone disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure should talk with their healthcare provider before incorporating ginger tea into their wellness regimen.

Other than warfarin and some other blood-thinning drugs, can ginger tea interact with any medications?

Ginger tea is generally safe when a person consumes it in moderation, but people should consult their healthcare provider before adding it to their diet if they have any medical condition or take any prescription or over-the-counter blood-thinning medication, any diabetes medication, any blood pressure medication, or metronidazole (Flagyl).

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