Overindulging in sweet and fatty foods can give anyone a hard time, especially those who already suffer from heartburn. In many cases, an increase in this secretion is compensated in the stomach by the mucin’s secretion in its walls. But other times, hyperacidity produces problems, mainly in the entry and exit of the stomach, whose mucous membranes are not prepared for the increase in acidity.
You should look for the best available options to Relieve Heartburn to avoid experiencing any side effects. Heartburn can appear when the valve between the esophagus and the stomach, called the cardia, does not close properly and the stomach contents go up. This causes gastric reflux. Or when excess acidity, after leaving the pylorus, irritates the mucosa of the duodenum and causes duodenitis or even duodenal ulcers.
How to Treat Heartburn
The antacid drugs neutralize the acid pH of the stomach, and inhibitors decrease the production of stomach acid. They are inhibitors of gastric motility and mucosal protectors. In the case of duodenal ulcers, antibiotic treatments are performed to eradicate the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, and spectacular improvements have been achieved.
The use of drugs against heartburn, especially proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole ), can cause abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, hypergastrinemia. Recently it has been seen that they can alter the microbiota. Inhibitors have also been linked to an increased risk of myocardial infarction, dementia, stroke, mortality, and chronic liver disease.
These products relieve symptoms, but they do not prevent the problem. To do this, the best are dietary and customary changes that improve symptoms and solve the underlying problem. Therefore, you have to try to change your diet and habits.
Best Habits to Manage Heartburn
- Drink Water– You should drink water in small amounts when you notice acidity. Water, by simple dilution, reduces acidity and sometimes improves symptoms.
- Watch Your Diet- It is advisable to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, without heated fats, and chew your food well. Stimulants should be avoided.
- Rest the Food- To avoid reflux, rest after eating, but sitting, not lying down. When sleeping, keep your head elevated in bed.
- Follow a Meal Schedule- Try to always eat and dine at the same time and in a relaxed atmosphere. Leave stress out.
- Belly Massage- When you feel heartburn, massage your belly gently and try to relax.
- Fruit-Shaped Antacid– Some fruits and vegetables are effective against heartburn. In particular, the banana, which acts as the body’s natural antacid, both fresh and dry.