Heartburn: Six Surprising Causes And Six Simple Remedies

Many of us may be experiencing heartburn without even realizing that's what is going on.

So, what exactly is it?

According to WebMD, "Heartburn is an irritation of the esophagus that is caused by stomach acid.

"This can create a burning discomfort in the upper abdomen or below the breast bone."

So for those who suffer from mild to severe heartburn, what can be done to stop it?

Keep scrolling for a look at the surprising causes and simple at-home remedies for this uncomfortable condition!

Cigarettes have long been reported as a large cause of painful heartburn.

According to WebMD, "A large study found that smokers were much more likely than nonsmokers to have acid reflux.

"Before you reach for a new bottle of antacids, you can do one more thing that might help: quit smoking."

Pills are, sometimes, a necessary part of life, but some of them may actually be the cause of your heartburn.

WebMD writes, "Many different medications can trigger heartburn, or make heartburn worse… Regular use of aspirin or a popular class of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may irritate the esophagus.

"Several different types of blood pressure medicines can also cause heartburn."

This doesn't mean you should stop taking your meds, but you may want to discuss your options with your doctor!

For those who wear extremely restrictive clothing or who tighten their belt too tight, you may be causing heartburn to occur!

According to Everyday Health, "Pressure on the stomach, known as intragastric pressure or intra-abdominal pressure, can trigger acid reflux — pushing stomach acid back up through the lower esophageal junction, where the esophagus and the stomach meet, causing heartburn."

It's not just what you eat that can cause heartburn, but how much, as well!

Morethanheartburn.com writes that eating extremely large meals "can trigger heartburn and acid reflux.

"Being conscious of your portion sizes and slowing down when you eat can help prevent heartburn."

High anxiety and stress levels can have quite a negative impact on your overall health, and can actually cause heartburn in the body.

Healthline cites a study, "In 1993, researchers published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology that reflux patients who were anxious and stressed reported having more painful symptoms related to acid reflux."

While nobody wants to go on a diet, it may be worth cutting out some of the more acidic foods in your life if heartburn is a serious issue for you.

WebMD suggests that dishes including citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spicy foods can be making things worse instead of better.

Keep scrolling for six surprising ways to battle heartburn at home!

It might sound surprising, but popping a simple stick of sugarless gum can actually help stave off uncomfortable heartburn.

A study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information says, "Chewing gum could induce increased swallowing frequency, thus improving the clearance rate of reflux within the esophagus.

"Chewing sugar-free gum for half an hour after a meal can reduce acidic postprandial esophageal reflux."

Have you ever considered putting some books or blocks under the head of your bed? Well, it might just help to alleviate your heartburn!

According to Everyday Roots, "Heartburn tends to get worse at night… Try elevating your head about six inches when you sleep by placing bricks, books, or blocks under the legs at the head of your bed."

They also say, "Don't lie down within 3 to 4 hours after eating."

You've probably heard about "a spoonful of sugar," but have you ever heard about a spoonful of baking soda?

Everyday Roots recommends that you drink a glass of water with 1 tsp. of baking soda mixed in.

"It has a pH higher than 7.0, and therefore, neutralizes stomach acid. [When] acid comes up your throat, you don't get 'burned.'"

When it comes to adding supplements to your life, you should definitely speak with your doctor. But a simple melatonin pill may just be the ticket for battling your painful reflux.

WebMD writes, "Melatonin, a supplement used to aid sleep, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn."

You can pick up melatonin over the counter at your local drugstore.

Yellow mustard can actually be good for your heartburn, according to Home Remedies For Life.

Simply apply it to your favorite foods, or (if you can stomach it) feed yourself a spoonful of this tasty topping!

While there are many causes that apply to everyone, Sparkpeople.com writes, "Every person suffering from [reflux] has a different list of foods and habits that trigger their symptoms.

"That's why it's wise to keep a heartburn journal to find your own specific triggers."

Simply write down the timing, symptoms, foods you ate, and activities you did each time you get heartburn, and look for patterns over time.

Knowing these surprising causes and helpful at-home remedies may be key to finally eliminating your painful heartburn!

What other remedies for heartburn have you found? Let us know in the comments.

Please SHARE with anyone who suffers from uncomfortable heartburn!