Get Rid Of Heartburn Fast: With An Acid Reflux Diet, Food Is A Natural Heartburn Remedy

Do you deal with frequent episodes of acid reflux and heartburn, and do you suspect you could be suffering from GERD? You could simply keep running to the pharmacy for over the counter antacids — but anyone who has been using antacids for any length of time knows that these over the counter medications don't get rid of heartburn for very long. 

Heartburn, Acid Reflux, And GERD: What Are They, And How Are They Different?

So, you're experiencing some uncomfortable symptoms, or a loved one is, and you're looking for solutions. Before you start looking for natural ways to get rid of heartburn fast, or begin investigating an acid reflux diet, let's take a look at what the terms "heartburn", "acid reflux", and GERD actually mean — because there's a lot of confusion out there!

Acid reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux and sometimes acid indigestion, occurs when stomach acids and foods come back into the esophagus. The term heartburn is sometimes used to refer to the same phenomenon, but heartburn is usually used specifically to describe the uncomfortable feeling you get in your chest and throat when stomach acids make their way into your esophagus. Acid reflux and heartburn can be caused by a wide variety of things, including pregnancy, medication, foods, and alcohol — and though heartburn can be quite painful, it's really not unusual for people to experience it once in a while. [1, 2]

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, and this medical condition can be described as chronic acid reflux. People get GERD when their lower esophageal sphincter weakens, or when it relaxes under the wrong circumstances. Risk factors for GERD include overweight and obesity, using certain prescription medications (for asthma, hypertension, depression, allergies, and insomnia, for instance), smoking, and a hiatal hernia. 

If you have been experiencing umcomfortable symptoms, but are not quite sure whether you would meet the diagnostic criteria for GERD, please begin the diagnostic process by having a chat with your healthcare provider. 

Why Get Rid Of Heartburn Without Antacids?

Antacids (also often simply called "tums"), medications that neutralize the acidic effects of acid reflux and are used to treat heartburn [4], are available over the counter.

Make no mistake — antacids really do get rid of heartburn fast. Antacids are, as such, a good option for people who get heartburn once in a blue moon. Long-term antacid use can, however, lead to all kinds of side effects. Side effects of long-term antacid use include diarrhea, constipation, kidney stones, and calcium loss. The latter can eventually lead to osteoporosis (brittle bones). [5]

In addition, people with chronic heartburn, that is those who are likely to meet the diagnostic criteria for GERD, are likely to be frustrated by the fact that the effects of antacids wear off rather quickly, and their heartburn returns. Research further notes that other medications for GERD, like prokinetic medications (metoclopramide is an example) and baclofen frequently either don't offer sufficient symptom relief, or cause unbearable side effects. This leaves diagnosed GERD patients waiting for treatment specifically tailored to their needs, and those with frequent heartburn but no diagnosis wondering where to turn instead. [6]

That is where food can come in. Lifestyle recommendations are an increasingly recommended approach to frequent episodes of heartburn, whether it's pregnancy heartburn or possible GERD — and food is a natural heartburn remedy. Avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, knowing what you can eat when you have heartburn, and adjusting how you eat your meals can all help you beat heartburn, or at least reduce its impact on your life. [7]. 

Your Acid Reflux Diet: Heartburn Relief Foods And Foods That Trigger Heartburn

Studies have made a note of something you already know if you often suffer from heartburn: acid reflux tends to occur while you're eating or right after a meal, suggesting that some foods trigger heartburn [8].

First off, how you eat matters. People who often get heartburn, or who have GERD, should eat smaller meals more frequently, rather than loading up on three big meals a day. Large portion sizes should be avoided at all costs. Heartburn sufferers should also make sure that they decrease their intake of fatty foods, which can trigger episodes of heartburn.

Foods that help with heartburn and acid reflux, meanwhile, include fiber-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids, foods rich in polyunsaturated fats, and lots of fruits and vegetables (excluding citrus fruits and tomatoes). Things like brown rice, white cheeses, fish, fresh (non-pickled) beets, apples, potatoes, peas, carrots, broccoli, cabbage, and eggs are all great for you. [12]

Don't underestimate the power of water to get rid of heartburn, either! Staying hydrated decreases food cravings, aids digestion, and reduces acid reflux symptoms. One study showed that eating two meals a day, with only fluids — especially water — in between decreased acid reflux symptoms and is a good strategy in the management of GERD. [13]

Weight Loss: An Essential Part Of The Acid Reflux Diet Approach To Heartburn And GERD?

People with frequent episodes of heartburn and people who know they have GERD should note that overweight and obesity are risk factors for heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD for a reason. A high body mass index, and especially an excess of fat in the abdominal region, increases your intra-abdominal pressure. This essentially means that your stomach is pushed upward, increasing your episodes of heartburn. [14]

In short, that means that you will want to try to lose weight to get rid of heartburn. If you are not sure how to go about healthy weight loss, please talk to your primary care provider. 

A final word

Natural remedies and lifestyle changes both play an important role even in managing GERD, which far exceeds occasional episodes of heartburn. If you suffer from frequent episodes of heartburn and do not have a diagnosis, however, do not assume that managing your symptoms through diet, but without ever seeing a doctor, is the best course of action. Besides lifestyle changes, GERD is also managed with prescription medications such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. These medications can bring GERD sufferers relief that home remedies cannot. 

If you suspect that you could have GERD but don't have a diagnosis, please consult your doctor.