Does Milk Help Heartburn? Other Remedies and Cures

Heartburn and reflux disease are very common. Some 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month and 15 million on a daily basis. About 1 in 5 people have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic acid reflux condition. These conditions cause the unpleasant symptom of burning and pain in the chest, which occurs due to stomach acid backing up into the esophagus (food pipe).

Over-the-counter medications such as antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn. There are also several natural heartburn remedies and lifestyle changes that can help.

In this article, we will take a look at whether milk relieves heartburn, what other foods can relieve and trigger heartburn, and some of the natural ways to manage acid reflux.

What causes heartburn symptoms?

At the lower end of the esophagus, there is a muscular structure called the lower esophageal sphincter. It allows food to go into the stomach and then closes to block stomach acid from coming back up into the esophagus.

In some people, the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes or becomes loose, allowing food and stomach acid to push back into the esophagus, triggering heartburn.

Certain foods like spicy foods and acidic foods can lead to the production of more acid and worsening of the burning sensation associated with heartburn.

Can drinking milk neutralize stomach acid?

Yes, drinking a glass of cow’s milk can help control acid reflux symptoms and may immediately relieve heartburn. This is because milk can temporarily buffer stomach acid.

However, the fat in milk can trigger acid production and make heartburn worse. That’s why you should drink nonfat milk or skim milk rather than full-fat milk or whole milk to neutralize the acid.

It’s also important to drink small quantities of milk at a time (no more than 8 ounces) because overfilling the stomach can also worsen heartburn symptoms. Low-fat yogurt is similarly effective in relieving occasional heartburn.

Is there a herbal remedy for heartburn?

There aren’t too many herbal remedies that can prevent heartburn. One herbal product called iberogast, which contains 9 different medicinal plants, may help some people find heartburn relief. However, notably, it contains peppermint gum oil which can actually increase heartburn symptoms. Always talk to your doctor before using natural remedies for heartburn and GERD.

Natural Treatments for Heartburn

The following supplements, herbal products, and home remedies may help relieve heartburn. Keep in mind that there is conflicting evidence about whether these can effectively reduce heartburn, but they may be worth trying.

Chewing Gum

When you chew gum, it stimulates saliva production, which acts as a buffer for stomach acid. Also, chewing gum makes you swallow more, which helps to push stomach contents and gastric acid out of the esophagus. If you want to try chewing gum for heartburn relief, choose sugar-free gum to protect your teeth.

Ginger Tea

Ginger has many medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory properties, and is a known digestive aid. Sipping ginger tea may therefore help with acid reflux symptoms.

Lemon and Honey in Warm Water

Although lemon juice is acidic, a small amount of lemon juice and honey mixed in warm water is alkalizing and helps to neutralize stomach acid. Also, honey is a natural antioxidant and protects the cells in the digestive tract.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Many people swear by apple cider vinegar to relieve acid reflux symptoms, although the research does not back this up. If you decide to try this remedy, avoid drinking full-concentration apple cider vinegar. The strong acid in this product can irritate the esophagus. Instead, add 1-2 spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water and drink it with meals.

As mentioned above, you should see a healthcare provider and get a checkup before using herbal products and supplements.

GERD Diet and Dietary Modifications for Heartburn

Avoiding Trigger Foods

Certain foods can cause heartburn by relaxing the esophageal sphincter and leading to delayed gastric emptying, whereby food sits in the stomach for longer. Culprits include fried foods, high-fat foods, salty foods, and spicy foods such as fast food, processed snacks, fatty meats, and cheese. Citrus fruits, tomato sauces, chocolate, and carbonated beverages can also worsen heartburn.

You do not need to eliminate these foods entirely from your diet, but moderation is key. It’s especially important to avoid these common triggers in the evening hours.

Eating Certain Foods That Help Prevent Heartburn

High-fiber foods like whole grains and vegetables can help relieve heartburn by making you feel full and preventing you from overeating. Alkaline foods like melons, bananas, cauliflower, fennel, and nuts can offset gastric acid and reduce symptoms of burning chest pain. Watery foods like cucumber, celery, watermelon, herbal teas, and broths can dilute stomach acid and reduce the burning pain associated with heartburn.

Home Remedies for Heartburn

Here are a few simple strategies that can prevent acid reflux and provide heartburn relief:

Keep a diary to identify trigger foods and avoid them.
Eat five or six smaller meals a day rather than three big ones.
Eat slowly and take smaller bites.
Don’t eat too close to bedtime.
Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.
Stop smoking if you smoke.
Don’t wear clothes that are too tight.
Raise the head of your bed with woodblocks by about 6 inches.

When To See a Doctor for Heartburn

You should see a doctor if you suffer from frequent heartburn and home remedies have not worked. For example, if you find yourself reaching for antacids like calcium carbonate more than a couple of times a week or are using antacids every day for more than two weeks, it’s time to see a doctor.

Frequent acid reflux can be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or stomach ulcers. If left untreated, it can lead to long-term complications like inflammation or even cancer. Acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD are treatable with lifestyle modifications and medications. Consult a healthcare professional to discuss available treatment options for persistent heartburn symptoms.

References: