10 Natural Antacids
Our stomach produces natural juices that are quite acidic. It needs to be this way because these juices are responsible for breaking down the food that we eat. While it is normal for these juices to be acidic, it is possible for them to become too acidic. This can result in various problems, the most common problem being heartburn.
There are various remedies available for heartburn that help to reduce the acidity of the stomach. These are generally known as antacids and numerous types are available.
However, if you are not keen on using these, then you can try using some natural alternatives instead. Below are 10 of these alternatives used to reduce acidity in the stomach.
Antacid #1: Apples
Apples are well known to be very good for us. They are an excellent source of vitamins that help to keep the immune system strong and keep us in good health overall. They are also a good source of fiber that helps to keep our digestive system in good condition.
Apples are also quite effective as a natural antacid. They can help to neutralize the acidity of our digestive juices, in turn helping to prevent heartburn. Many people swear that apple cider vinegar is also effective and that drinking it immediately after eating can help to keep heartburn at bay.
Antacid #2: Carrots
Carrots are a popular vegetable all over the world. They are often used as a recipe in cooking, while many people also like to eat them raw. Not only are they tasty but they are also a very good source of important nutrition. Some people even like to juice them to make the most of the nutrients they offer.
Carrots are very good for the digestive system and are even thought to be able to help with some gastric issues. Some people insist that carrot juice in the morning mixed with some spinach juice is a great way to keep the acidity of the stomach juices down.
Antacid #3: Chewing Gum
Many of us will chew gum occasionally to help keep our breath fresh. Others might do so out of habit, or even just because they enjoy it. What a lot of people don’t realize is that chewing gum also has some health benefits. Chew gum occasionally and you could be helping to reduce the acidity of your stomach.
When we chew gum, we tend to produce and swallow a lot of saliva. This saliva helps to neutralize the acidity of the stomach’s contents. Indeed, one study showed that people that chewed gum regularly showed a decrease in the symptoms of heartburn.
Antacid #4: Bananas
Bananas are simply delicious. They are also very convenient and great for people that are always on the go. They make a quick and nutritious snack that can provide a boost of energy just when you are beginning to struggle, and they can also help to reduce the acidity of the stomach.
Bananas are able to help coat the stomach wall, which can protect it in cases of particularly acidic contents. Enjoy a banana or two for breakfast in the morning and you could be ensuring the rest of your day goes well.
Antacid #5: Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is among the most popular names you will come across when it comes to healthy living. It is a type of plant that has thick leaves that are said to hold a wide range of medicinal properties. It can be used as it is but there are also many natural remedies that use aloe vera as an ingredient.
In particular, aloe vera is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. This can help to reduce inflammation in the stomach and in the esophagus while it can also help to neutralize the acid in the stomach. This means that it can be an effective remedy for heartburn.
Antacid #6: Garlic
The smell of garlic when somebody is cooking can be hard to resist. It can help to really add something special to dishes even if it can cause our breath to smell somewhat afterward. In addition to its great taste, garlic is also thought to be able to provide various health benefits.
Raw garlic is an antibiotic. This means that it can help prevent gastritis and other conditions that are caused by pathogens. This can also help to reduce acidity and, in turn, reduce heartburn. While it can be eaten raw and also in cooking, you will also find healthy supplements that use garlic as an ingredient.
Antacid #7: Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used for a wide variety of things. When combined with other ingredients, it can excel in removing stubborn stains that other products cannot shift. It can also be used to help unblock drains. In addition to the dirty work, it can also be used in cooking. Its benefits don’t stop there, either, because it can also be used an antacid.
Mix some baking soda with some water and drink after a meal to help ease heartburn. It may not taste great but it is better than having to endure the pain of a burning esophagus. Remember that it is high in sodium so you should not use it too often.
Antacid #8: Milk
Milk is an excellent source of fat, protein, and calcium. It is a naturally produced liquid that is made to help young animals develop quickly so it has many of the building blocks that we need for growth and repair. It can be drunk as it is and used in cooking while it can also be poured over your cereal in the mornings.
Milk is alkaline and this means that it is effective at helping to reduce acidity. It can also help to coat the lining of the stomach, helping to ease and reduce certain problems with the digestive system. Just pour yourself a glass or two in the morning and it could help to keep heartburn at bay.
Antacid #9: Licorice
Licorice is one of those candies that is somewhat of an acquired taste and not among most peoples’ first choice. Those that do like it, though, will be pleased to hear that eating it in moderation does provide certain health benefits. One such benefit is improved digestion.
It has been shown that licorice is able to help improve digestion and this can result in decreased acidity. It is also thought that licorice is able to help heal certain problems with the digestive system. Despite its benefits, licorice can be bad for you if you eat too much of it so don’t overdo it.
Antacid #10: Ginger
Ginger is a flowering plant that is found naturally in Asia and Southeast Asia. Its roots are used in cooking and they have quite a unique flavor that helps to bring some dishes to life. Although popular in cooking, ginger has also been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
Ginger is said to have many medicinal properties and is possibly the first known remedy for heartburn. It can be eaten raw but also enjoyed as an ingredient. Many people also choose to drink it as a tea and it can also be used in a wide range of natural remedies.
