Sunday, March 8, 2009

Natural Remedy For Heartburn

By Kristy Risanth

Heartburn is known to affect over 40% of Americans who are adults. It is described as a burning discomfort behind the breastbone that moves up to the neck and throat. It is sometimes followed with a bitter or sour taste in the mouth. It is not caused by heart problems but sometimes, the pain caused by heart problems can thought to feel like a heartburn.

The burning sensation that is heartburn, can happen at many different times, whether daily or nightly, before or after eating, lying down, bending over, or straining yourself. Many pregnant women also complain of heartburn. And although the direct cause is not known - as it could be hormonal - it is attributed to the pressure on the stomach caused by the fetus.

Acid reflux (or Gastro Esophageal Reflux - GERD) is the common cause for heartburn. But heartburn is not the only indication of GERD. Instead of a chest pain, some people taste the bitterness of the acid in their mouth or in the back of their throat. Because not all people recognise heartburn, it is also called sour stomach, indigestion or acid regurgitation.

Acid reflux can be caused by a lot of different things although it is usually triggered by either stress or a poor diet. Many people believe that certain types of food cause GERD or Heartburn symptoms. However, whilst your diet can trigger the heartburn or GERD symptoms, it does not actually cause the problem. Therefore, changes in your diet, by avoiding acidic foods, overeating etc. may reduce symptoms but may not cure it.

The most commonly used product for heartburn symptoms are antacids. However, prolonged use of antacids are not recommended as continually breaking up the acid in the stomach can eventually make your heartburn worse, since stomach acid helps us absorb nutrients and is the first line of defense against candida (which can lead to acid reflux and heartburn). Instead, a holistic natural remedy for heartburn is recommended so that your body's internal defense against acid reflux and heartburn, is activated.

A home remedy that is commonly known would be baking soda with water, or taking honey after meals. However, just like antacids, baking soda with water, and other home remedies are not recommended for frequent sufferers of heartburn. These remedies only provided temporary relief and are not be consumed regularly for the same reason that they target the symptoms and are not a natural remedy for heartburn AND acid reflux.

A natural remedy for heartburn and acid reflux is needed for a permanent cure. Unlike antacids, honey and baking soda, a holistic remedy would help your body heal itself. And because it does not only treat the symptoms of acid reflux, it can help cure other digestive disorders you may be facing.

A holistic natural remedy for heartburn will invariably help your body's defenses in fighting other digestive disorders. The reason being that a holistic remedy helps your body heal itself by strengthening it. Thus encouraging our bodies to work the natural way we were made to stay healthy. This also helps you avoid any side effects that drugs may cause. However, be sure to be prepared for any "healing crisis". A healing crisis can happen when your body finds that it is able to start flushing out toxins that it was previously helpless to deal with. And thus, you may find yourself feeling ill or weak as your body rigorously works on a detox. - 15437

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