How To Get Rid Of Heartburn Without Tums

Make Your Peace With Milk

Here’s a riddle for you: Does milk help with acid reflux? The answer is…yes and no.

Milk can temporarily reduce acid reflux symptoms in some people, but in other people, it can actually aggravate their symptoms. The only way to know is to pay attention to how milk affects you personally.

If you do decide that milk relieves heartburn fast for you, Dykstra suggest sticking to fat-free or 1 percent milk because the fat content in 2 percent or whole milk could make reflux symptoms worse.

So, What Can You Drink for Acid Reflux?

Reach for the following drinks to avoid that burning sensation in your throat or chest:

• Water
• Caffeine-free herbal teas, such as chamomile
• Plant-based milks, such as almond or coconut milk
• Non-acidic juices, such as carrot or cabbage juice
• Smoothies made with plant-based milk, leafy greens and low-acid fruit, such as watermelon or pear

Dosage And Frequency Of Tums

Like any other prescription or over-the-counter drug medicine, the dosage and frequency of Tums should ideally come from your doctor. That said, there are some general guidelines to follow when using Tums for heartburn during pregnancy.

Kimberly Langdon, MD, OB/GYN says Tums works best when taken frequently on the order of every 4 hours because it neutralizes the acid rather than preventing it from being released.

With that in mind, Langdon says expecting mothers can take a maximum of two tablets every 46 hours as needed for heartburn.

In general, most women will do fine at this dosage it may only be problematic in women with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones, says Langdon.

Tums comes in a variety of strengths, and most of the recommendations for pregnancy refer to the regular strength, which is the lowest dose at 500 milligrams.

And according to the manufacturer, pregnant women shouldnt exceed 10 tablets in a 24 hour period, and for no longer than two weeks, except under the supervision of a doctor.

Unless your doctor says otherwise, you should always stick to the recommended dosage, especially since Tums has calcium.

Although calcium is a much-needed mineral during pregnancy, too much of it can lead to

• increased risk of developing kidney stones
• irregular heartbeat
• possible trouble absorbing other minerals, such as iron

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.

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How To Get Rid Of Indigestion

Indigestion affects up to one in four Americans each year.

Indigestion can be experienced in different ways, causing a wide array of disruptive gastrointestinal symptoms.

Thankfully, there are many treatment options for indigestion. Treatment of indigestion depends on the cause, but may entail over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or at-home lifestyle changes.

In this article, Ill describe what indigestion is, and the different treatment options available.

Ill also cover what you should avoid if you experience symptoms, and which home remedies can be effective at treating or preventing indigestion.

Finally, Ill explain when you should see a healthcare provider for more personalized care.

What Is The Quickest Way To Get Rid Of Heartburn

Taking antacids is considered the quickest way to get rid of heartburn. These over-the-counter medications help neutralize stomach acid. They are one of the first recommended treatments. They may provide quick relief. However, antacid overuse can cause problems such as diarrhea or chronic kidney disease, especially if they contain aluminum and magnesium.

Other common ways to get rid of heartburn include

• H2 receptor blockers: These medications work to reduce the amount of acid that is made in the stomach. While they do not work as quickly as antacids, they provide longer relief for up to 12 hours. Examples of these include Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, Zantac and Axid AR. Although most people have no problems taking them, long-term use can cause vitamin B12 deficiency leading to an increased risk of bone fractures.
• Proton pump inhibitors: This class of medications block acid production. They also help to heal any damage caused to the lining of the esophagus. They are much stronger than the H2 receptor blockers and include Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix and Zegerid. Excessive use of these medications can cause diarrhea and nausea, vitamin B12 deficiency and an increased risk of bone fractures.
• Baclofen: This medication works to strengthen the muscular valve present at the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. However, it may cause nausea and fatigue in some people.
• Surgical procedures: In rare cases, these are required to help with severe heartburn symptoms.

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Pay Attention To Other Symptoms

If you notice any additional digestive symptoms besides heartburn such as nausea, diarrhea, bloating or vomiting it is important you discuss those with a doctor to see if there may be additional causes behind your acid reflux.

For instance, Dykstra point out that sometimes gluten or lactose intolerance can cause digestive symptoms, including reflux.

What About Baking Soda for Acid Reflux?

You may have heard that baking soda acts as a natural antacid and helps with acid reflux, but there’s no research to support this idea. Plus, baking soda is high in sodium and can cause uncomfortable side effects such as gas and burping, so it’s best to avoid this old-fashioned remedy.

Know The 8 Worst Foods For Acid Reflux Or Heartburn

Experts say you can uncover your specific triggers by paying close attention to how your body reacts to what youre eating. But you may well find one of the following eight foods pops up as a problem.

1. Fried, fatty foods. Talk about a triple whammy. First, foods that are high in fat and drenched in oil cause the lower esophageal sphincter the ring of muscle connecting the esophagus and stomach to relax, allowing acid to leak out and up into the esophagus. Also, they are digested slowly and sit in your stomach longer, giving gastric acid more time to work its way up into your esophagus, increasing your risk of heartburn. And high-fat food can cause weight gain. That extra poundage increases pressure on your abdomen, making it easier for fluid to travel upward, into the esophagus. Tip: Opt instead for lean cuts of meat, chicken and fish, cooked on the grill or in the oven.

2. Citrus fruits. Their vitamin C may be the draw, but these fruits high acid content makes them risky for reflux. Lemons and limes are the biggest culprits, but oranges, grapefruit, grapes and blueberries make the list, too. Tip: Offset their acidity by buffering them with more alkaline foods, such as low-fat yogurt.

5. Peppermint. A cup of refreshing, mint-infused tea can calm a turbulent tummy. But peppermint, in any form, can also cause gastric reflux and heartburn. Tip: Savor a cup of soothing chamomile tea or suck on licorice-flavored hard candy to soothe your stomach.

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Remain Upright For An Hour Or Two After Eating

To get rid of heartburn at night especially, avoid eating too soon before bedtime or eating and then lying down on the couch, Dykstra says. Going horizontal makes it more likely that acid will flow backward into your esophagus.

If you find it difficult to avoid eating before to bedtime, you can try elevating the head of your bed to stay upright as you sleep. The Mayo Clinic recommends inserting a wedge between your mattress and box spring to do the trick .

Does Eating Slowly Help Heartburn?

One of the old-fashioned heartburn remedies is chewing food thoroughly and slowing down when you’re eating, but research doesn’t support this idea. A 2013 comparative study in the Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology found that eating speed had no significant effect on reflux attacks in people with GERD.

What Lifestyle Changes Help Heartburn

The best way to avoid heartburn discomfort is to prevent it. These lifestyle changes can make a big difference:

• Avoid trigger foods: Foods that promote heartburn include fried and fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate, spicy foods and carbonated beverages.
• Lose weight: Being overweight increases the likelihood that you’ll experience heartburn.
• Avoid eating late at night: Try to eat three hours before going to bed. At a minimum, you should wait at least one hour after eating.
• Elevate the bed: Physically lift the head of your bed about six to eight inches so you’re sleeping on an incline. If that’s not possible, use a wedge pillow for lift.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco: These substances increase the chances of heartburn attacks.
• Wear looser clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on your digestive system.

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Can I Die From Acid Reflux In My Sleep

Acid Reflux every now and then is not a cause for concern, however, if it is becoming more frequent , it is a sign of GERD and you should check in with your doctor. According to the American Cancer Society, patients with GERD have a slightly increased risk of permanent damage to the esophagus and can also lead to a condition called Barretts esophagus which can increase your risk for developing esophageal cancer. In short, you are not going to die from acid reflux in your sleep. However, if acid reflux occurs frequently and is left untreated, it can lead to higher likelihood of developing serious or life threatening complications such as esophagitis, ulcers, aspiration pneumonia, and Barretts esophagus.

Thankfully, you can act now. There are many ways to treat and prevent acid reflux, such as you can try to pinpoint your reflux triggers and avoid them as much as possible. You can also try to avoid eating meals late at night . If symptoms continue to persist, you may turn to over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid , decrease stomach acid production , or heal the esophagus .

Because many people find GERD to be worse around bedtime, focusing on how to sleep with GERD may help reduce symptoms and improve sleep. Continue reading to learn more!

Avoid Food And Drink Triggers

Some heartburn triggers are common while others will vary for each individual.

• Drinking alcohol before, during, or after meals can worsen heartburn because alcohol weakens the LES muscle. In addition, drinking alcohol can result in eating more than you intended and making poorer food choices.
• Avoid foods and beverages that weaken the LES muscle. These foods include chocolate, peppermint, caffeinated beverages, carbonated beverages, alcohol, fatty foods, and greasy or fried foods.
• Avoid foods and beverages that may irritate the esophagus. These include citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and tomato-based products, chili peppers, and black pepper.
• Create a heartburn-friendly diet by keeping a food diary to record which foods are safer for you and which are more likely to trigger heartburn. You may be able to enjoy some foods occasionally or in smaller amounts, while you will find others need to be avoided most of the time.

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Ingredient Diy Natural Tums

Lets talk a little bit about these 3 ingredients and why they are so effective at relieving the uncomfortable heartburn symptoms. I always like to be informed and learn about natural remedies because I really believe in the healing power of mother nature.

Honey is a natural anti bacterial and promotes proper digestion. Honey also contains potassium, which neutralizes stomach acids. Make sure to buy a good quality real raw honey. Find out more about the benefits of raw honey HERE.

Lemons also help neutralize acidity in the stomach. Although lemon juice is very acidic, it can have an alkalizing effect when its mixed with water. Make sure you just add a few drops.

Baking soda also neutralizes stomach acids and prevents acid reflux. Baking soda, AKA sodium bicarbonate, is a natural antacid. If you drink 1/2 a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 8 ounces of water, it can neutralize stomach acid and temporarily alleviate heartburn.

The combination was just perfect. I could really feel relief instantly. Give it a try next time you experience heartburn and let me know if it works for you too. Remember this natural remedy is not recommended for children.

Heartburn Relief During Pregnancy

There are two reasons why pregnant women might get heartburn. First, during pregnancy a womans body starts releasing hormones that relax abdominal and pelvic muscles in preparation for delivery. This can also cause muscles like the one that controls the valve between the esophagus and the stomach to relax, allowing acidic bile to flow back toward the throat. Secondly, as the baby grows, it puts pressure on the stomach, which can also lead to acid reflux. Avoiding trigger foods may help, along with these other tips to reduce heartburn:

• Chew slowly and thoroughly to break down the food as much as possible for digestion.
• Drink your nutrients through protein and fruit shakes.
• Eat small meals throughout the day.
• Elevate your torsonot just your headwhile sleeping.
• Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about over-the-counter heartburn treatments during pregnancy.
• Try sleeping on your left side, which makes it harder for acid to move backward through the esophageal valve.

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Home remedies are an inexpensive and accessible way to treat heartburn pain. If the first remedy doesnt help, keep tryingeventually, one of these options will likely work for you. But if your heartburn keeps coming back or you find that its getting worse, speak with your doctor. Remember, heartburn is a symptomyou may need to treat the problem that is causing it.

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Is Tums Good For An Upset Stomach

Tums is an affordable, effective option for treating an upset stomach. Chewable Tums tablets start working within five minutes and can be taken as needed. Tums should only be used for mild, occasional heartburn and indigestion. If youre needing to use Tums consistently for more than 14 days, consult a healthcare provider.

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 , or possibly a side effect of a medication you’re taking.

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Have You Ever Had Acid Reflux Do You Find Yourself Having To Take Antacids Look For A Gerd Specialist In Your Region

Normally, these are referred to as heartburn. According to the GERD specialist,its a common syndrome that feels like a pain in your chest and throat. This is typically the result of GERD , which happens when undigested food bile travels back into the esophagus. Fortunately these symptoms can be alleviated. Below are a list of 6 home remedies that you can use to get rid of acid reflux and GERD.

Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe Vera is a plant that has amazing healing properties. The juice from the plant can help the stomach greatly. It can lower acid content in the stomach and prevent acid reflux. Drink pure, unprocessed aloe vera.

Lemon Juice

Lemon Juice is an amazing way to kill acidity in the stomach. Drinking a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice in the morning is a great way to decrease acid build up in the stomach. It also promotes digestion.

Baking Soda

Although the taste of baking soda is not great, the effects of drinking baking soda are amazing. Drinking baking soda and water will keep your stomachs ph balance right. Drink a glass of baking soda before you go to sleep.

Stop Eating Acidic Food

Although this is not a panacea for acid reflux, it can greatly improve your stomach ph. By removing highly acidic foods, like coffee and greasy foods can greatly help the internal system of your stomach and decrease the chance of heart burn.

Cold Milk

Bananas

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When To See A Doctor For Acid Reflux

If you are having frequent, recurrent acid reflux or if your acid reflux is interfering with your quality of life, you should schedule a check-up with your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine what may be behind your heartburn and work with you to manage your symptoms.

Your doctor can also assess you for a more severe form of acid reflux called GERD, which might require more treatment, like medication or even surgery. It could also be gastric ulcer disease, which can be dangerous if left untreated.

“Acid reflux is usually easily treated with diet and lifestyle changes,” Dykstra says. “However, it is possible that other conditions are causing it, such as infection, food intolerances or other disorders. It’s important to discuss symptoms with your physician to determine the cause.”

She also recommends seeking help from a registered dietitian. “The goal is to avoid restricting foods if possible,” she says, “and a dietitian can help you figure out how to do that.”

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