5 Home Remedies for Heartburn Relief

If you've ever had heartburn, you know that it's not fun! That uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest can make it difficult to eat, sleep, focus, and a host of other everyday activities. We put together a list of home remedies that can be helpful in treating a mild case of heartburn. If your symptoms persist for more than a short period of time, please consult your doctor.

1. Swallow a teaspoon of yellow mustard

Swallowing a small amount of mustard is a fantastic home remedy for heartburn! Mustard is full of healthy ingredients such as magnesium, calcium, iron, and more, which help to aid in digestion and the balancing of acids in your stomach. If you're not a huge fan of mustard or don't like the idea of eating it plain, whip up a piece of toast to enjoy alongside it.

2. Drink a baking soda/water mixture

Baking soda can be used for pretty much anything, including heartburn relief! Baking soda is a base, meaning it will help neutralize your stomach acid to prevent the uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Simply stir 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink. Don't use this method for more than a few times a day for a week, as consuming too much baking soda can have side effects like nausea.

3. Mix apple cider vinegar and honey

It may seem odd to consume even more acid when you have heartburn. However, many doctors agree that low stomach acid can trigger heartburn, so consuming some diluted apple cider vinegar can be helpful. In addition, apples alone contain pectin, a dietary fiber that can also decrease heartburn. Drink a glass of warm water mixed with a spoonful of honey and 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar to relieve your mild heartburn.

4. Chew sugar-free gum

Chewing gum may seem like an odd remedy because nothing is being ingested, but it can help! Chewing gum forces you to swallow more often, which can help clear the acid reflux from your esophagus. Try this method after a meal to see if your heartburn symptoms lessen.

5. Brew peppermint tea

Peppermint is a common natural cure for indigestion, and it works well for heartburn too. It relieves bloating, reduces gastrointestinal distress, and soothes the burning sensation caused by heartburn. Adding a small amount of honey can sweeten your drink as well as aid in heartburn relief. Peppermint tea is better suited as a preventative heartburn measure, so try consuming 30 minutes before mealtime.

If all else fails...

Try some over-the-counter heartburn medication and reach out to your doctor. Consistent, painful heartburn can be a sign of a larger issue and it may be best to consult a professional to come up with a treatment plan.