It happens when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus. Many people in the USA experience it after consuming large meals or spicy foods. The good news? You can often ease it quickly at home without medicine. Remember, if heartburn occurs frequently, consult a doctor; it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Let’s explore What Gets Rid of Heartburn Fast at Home.
What Causes Heartburn?
Heartburn is common and affects about 20% of Americans weekly. Triggers include:
- Eating too much or too fast
- Fatty, spicy, or acidic foods (like pizza, citrus, or tomatoes)
- Drinks like coffee, soda, or alcohol
- Lying down right after eating
- Being overweight or smoking
8 Fast Home Remedies to Get Rid of Heartburn
These remedies use things you likely have at home. They work by neutralizing acid, calming your stomach, or improving digestion. Try them one at a time to see what helps you.
Baking Soda in Water
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in half a glass of water. Drink it slowly. It acts like a natural antacid to neutralize stomach acid. Relief can come in minutes. Don’t use more than 7 times a day, and avoid it if you have high blood pressure.
Chewing Gum
Chew sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after a meal. It boosts saliva, which washes acid away. Studies show it can reduce symptoms fast. Pick flavors without peppermint, as that might worsen heartburn.
Ginger Tea
Brew fresh ginger slices in hot water or sip ginger ale (flat, not fizzy). Ginger soothes the stomach and reduces inflammation. It often works in 10-20 minutes. Use up to 1-2 cups a day.
Low-Fat Milk
Drink a small glass of cold, skim milk. It coats the esophagus and buffers acid temporarily. Avoid full-fat milk, as fat can trigger more acid. Limit to 8 ounces at a time.
Banana or Apple
Eat a ripe banana or apple. These fruits are natural antacids and low in acid. They can provide relief in about 15 minutes. Choose overripe bananas for better results.
Aloe Vera Juice
Sip 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice (without laxatives). It calms irritation in the esophagus. Look for food-grade versions at stores. Don’t drink too much, as it can cause diarrhea.
Sit or Stand Upright
After eating, stay upright for at least 30 minutes. Gravity helps keep acid down. Loosen tight belts or clothes, too. This simple step can ease symptoms quickly.
Elevate Your Head
If heartburn hits at night, prop up your head with pillows or raise the bed head by 6-8 inches. Sleep on your left side for better results. This prevents acid from rising while you rest.
Preventing Heartburn
Heartburn, also known as acid reflux, happens when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, causing a burning feeling in your chest.
It’s common, but you can prevent it with simple lifestyle changes. Based on the latest advice, here are effective ways to get rid of heartburn episodes.
Eat smaller meals more often:
Instead of large meals, opt for smaller portions throughout the day. This reduces pressure on your stomach and lowers the chance of acid backing up. Overeating is a common trigger, so aim to stop when you’re about 80% full.
Avoid trigger foods and drinks:
Steer clear of spicy, fatty, or acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus, chocolate, onions, and garlic. Also, limit caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and fried items, as they can relax the muscle that keeps acid in your stomach.
Choose high-fiber foods (like oatmeal or whole grains), alkaline options (such as bananas or melons), and watery foods (like lettuce or cucumber) to help neutralize acid.
Don’t eat close to bedtime:
Finish your last meal or snack at least 2-3 hours before lying down. This gives your body time to digest and lets gravity keep acid in your stomach. Late-night eating is a big culprit for nighttime heartburn.
Elevate your head while sleeping:
Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches using blocks or a wedge pillow. This uses gravity to prevent acid from rising. Sleeping on your left side can also help, as it positions your stomach lower than your esophagus.
Maintain a healthy weight and quit smoking:
Extra weight around your belly can push acid up, so losing even a little can make a difference. Smoking weakens the valve between your stomach and esophagus, so stopping can reduce symptoms quickly.
Chew gum after meals:
Sugar-free gum increases saliva production, which naturally neutralizes stomach acid and washes it back down. Chew for about 30 minutes post-meal for best results.
Wear loose clothing and stay upright after eating:
Tight belts or pants can squeeze your stomach. After meals, avoid lying down—sit or stand for at least 30 minutes to aid digestion. Also, skip intense exercise right after eating.
When to See a Doctor
Home remedies work in occasional to get rid of heartburn, but if it’s frequent (occurring more than twice a week), lasts for weeks, or comes with symptoms such as trouble swallowing, weight loss, or vomiting, visit a professional.
At the Emergency Room of Fort Worth, TX, our team can check for issues such as GERD or ulcers. We’re open 24/7 for urgent care.
FAQs
What gets rid of heartburn fast at home without medicine?
Baking soda in water or chewing gum often works quickest by neutralizing acid or boosting saliva.
Is drinking water good to gets rid of heartburn?
Yes, plain water can dilute acid. Sip it slowly. Alkaline water (pH 8.8+) might help more, per some studies.
Can heartburn be a sign of something serious?
Sometimes. If it’s ongoing, it could be GERD, which might lead to esophageal damage. See a doctor if symptoms persist.
What foods make heartburn worse?
Spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, fatty meals, citrus, tomatoes, onions, and mint. Track your diet to spot yours.
How can I prevent heartburn?
Eat small meals, avoid lying down after eating, lose weight if needed, quit smoking, and wear loose clothes.
Is apple cider vinegar good for heartburn?
Some say it helps, but it can worsen acid for others. Stick to proven remedies like ginger.
What if home remedies don’t work?
Try over-the-counter antacids like Tums. If no relief, head to an ER like ours in Fort Worth, TX, for evaluation.
Can stress cause heartburn?
Yes, stress can increase acid production. Try relaxation like deep breathing to help.
