When heartburn strikes, many people turn to old home remedies like drinking milk or eating a slice of bread, believing these will offer quick relief. However, these remedies are often ineffective and can even make things worse. According to Dr. Patrick Hyatt, M.D., a specialist at the Center for Heartburn and Reflux Disease, these home solutions are simply old wives’ tales that fail to address the root cause of heartburn.
What Causes Heartburn?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, leading to the familiar burning sensation. The condition is often triggered by acidic foods, such as spicy meals, coffee, and wine, which combine with stomach acid to create a potent mixture that irritates the esophagus. Overeating can also contribute to heartburn, as a stuffed stomach exerts pressure on the esophageal sphincter, causing the acid mixture to leak upward.
Although consuming bread or milk might seem to soothe the discomfort, these foods can actually exacerbate the problem. Dr. Hyatt explains that adding bulk to the stomach leads to the production of more stomach acid, which only worsens the acid reflux.
Effective Solutions for Heartburn Relief
Instead of relying on ineffective home remedies, Dr. Hyatt recommends using over-the-counter histamine blockers, such as Pepcid or Zantac, which work by inhibiting the chemical histamine. Histamine triggers the production of stomach acid, and blocking it can provide relief from heartburn symptoms within 15 to 30 minutes.
How to Prevent Heartburn
Prevention is always better than dealing with the pain of heartburn. According to Harvard Medical School, identifying common heartburn triggers is a crucial first step. Spicy foods, fatty dishes, garlic, tomatoes, and beverages like coffee and peppermint can all provoke reflux. Keeping track of these triggers and adjusting your diet can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing heartburn.
A useful tip for those who do consume problematic foods is to chew a piece of non-peppermint gum afterward. Gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acid in the esophagus.
Additionally, timing your meals is essential. Dr. David Poppers, M.D., Ph.D., advises waiting at least two hours after eating before lying down to prevent acid reflux. Sleeping in an elevated position can also help reduce the likelihood of acid traveling up the esophagus.
When to Seek Professional Help
If heartburn occurs more than twice a week, it may indicate a more serious issue, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can lead to complications like esophageal cancer. If this is the case, it’s important to consult with a doctor who can monitor your symptoms and provide effective treatment options.
In conclusion, while home remedies like milk and bread may seem comforting, they offer little to no relief and may even worsen heartburn symptoms. For effective treatment, consider over-the-counter medications, prevent triggers, and consult a healthcare professional if heartburn persists.