Sunday, March 1, 2009

Stop Heartburn With A Natural Remedy

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.

Heartburn is not considered a disease of it's own. Instead, it is normally attributed to GERD - Gastro Esophageal Reflux, more commonly known as acid reflux. Heartburn is one of the main indications of GERD. Some people do not experience the burning pain and instead just get a sour taste in their mouth. It's also described as indigestion or sour stomach.

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.

Antacids are available over-the-counter or off-the-shelf without a need for prescription. Your doctor or pharmacist will advise you of the dose needed and how often you should take it. While antacids can provide relief within minutes, they are considered a temporary solution for excess stomach acid i.e. for mild heartburn sufferers, and are not for continued consumption as they are not a holistic natural remedy for heartburn. What's more, when taken for longer periods, they may stimulate your stomach to produce extra amounts of acid.

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 holistic natural remedy for heartburn would help strengthen your body's immune system and other functions to be able to heal iteslf. Unlike antacids, baking soda and honey remedies, this would not only alleviate heartburn symptoms, it would also tackle the problem of acid reflux. Thus providing a more permanent solution for heartburn sufferers.

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. - 15995

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