Heartburn and acid indigestion are actually different disorders with heartburn occurring in the esophagus where excess stomach acid backs up, and acid indigestion taking place in the lining of the stomach. Besides the burning, you may have a bitter taste in your mouth. On a regular basis heartburn can lead to a chronic condition called acid reflux disease or GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease).
Bad Habits to Change
A weak esophageal valve is usually to blame for heartburn but stress, bad eating habits and poor lifestyle choices contribute to both heartburn and acid indigestion. If experiencing stress while eating, the needed blood for digestion can be taken away from the stomach and sent to the brain. Make eating an enjoyable experience.
Bad eating habits include:
- Eating too much or too fast
- Eating at irregular times
- Eating poor food choices like fried food, spicy food, alcohol, chocolate, and caffeinated coffee
Avoid the following lifestyle choices:
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Wearing tight-fitting clothes while eating
- Lying down after a meal
Good Nutrition=Good Digestion
Good digestion starts with a nutritious, healthy diet that consists mainly of a variety of foods with emphasis on fruits (go easy on citrus), vegetables, and whole grains (all carbohydrates); a moderate amount of low-fat dairy, fish, chicken, and soy products, (supplying proteins); and a small amount of healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados and nuts. Establish good eating habits by eating sensible portions at regular times.
Natural Remedies
Twenty minutes before eating a meal drink this concoction to aid heartburn. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. Concentrate on pleasing thoughts (for the anti-stress effect).
After eating, heartburn relief is helped with herbs. For the do-it-yourself types try this infusion (tea). Purchase or gather the following–dandelion leaves (neutralizes acid), chamomile flowers (decreases acid), lemon balm or peppermint (soothes), and ginger (stimulates). Use two tablespoons dried herb steeped in two cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes (use four tablespoons for fresh herbs). This has pleasant effects on both the digestive and nervous systems. If you want to skip the preparation, buy soothing peppermint tea at the store.
A garnish that is often left on plates, parsley, is a digestion helper; eat it, don’t throw it away!
Practical Tips
Emotional upsets and bad moods are not good for digestion so prepare before and during eating with these calmer-downers. Listen to peaceful music while eating to minimize stress. Limit drinking too much water while eating as it dilutes necessary stomach acid. Finally, remember to do what your mother taught you, chew your food thoroughly.
This article is for educational purposes. Serious and chronic symptoms should be seen by a physician.
References
“Heartburn.” American Gastroenterological Association, accessed October 12, 2008.
“Heartburn and Indigestion.” Quick Care, accessed October 14, 2008.
Tierra, Michael, The Way of Herbs, Simon & Shuster, 1998.
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