Natural Heartburn Remedies: Some Common Misconceptions

By Lloyd Morgan

For many, heartburn is an annoying and painful condition that occurs after eating too much or scoffing the wrong types of food. For others it is a regular misery that may lead to the development of serious health complications. Being such a common complication, misconceptions abound about it. Before looking for natural remedies for heartburn, take a look at a few of the most common myths.

The first common misconception is that heartburn is caused by too much stomach acid. Stomach acid is secreted by the proton pump in the stomach lining. Its purpose is to render the right acidity for stomach enzymes to do their work. As acid is the agent that causes heartburn, it's natural to think that the problem is due to excess.

In fact, stomach acid levels in heartburn sufferers are often normal or even below normal. It's the reflux of the acid into the gullet that causes heartburn and this is a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter. The problem can have many causes. It can be caused by eating such substances as chocolate, or through excess pressure in the stomach via carbonated drinks for instance.

Another myth about heartburn is that stress is a major cause. This arises from the stereotype of stressed-out executives hunched over in pain and swigging antacids. However their problem is more likely to be stomach ulcers. While stress can aggravate heartburn, it is not usually the direct cause.

The problem is that stress plays havoc with our lifestyles. It deprives us of the time and mood to exercise and relax and to eat regular, nutritious meals. If affects our sleep and leaves us less time to take care of ourselves. It makes us smoke and drink more. These are all factors that can spark off a heartburn attack.

However the most serious misconception about heartburn is that it is a trivial complaint. Two million Americans go to the doctor with heartburn every day so it's natural to think of it as something like the common cold -an annoyance that will go away on its own.

But chronic heartburn can have a profound impact on your life. If untreated, serious complications can result such as erosive esophagitis or even cancer. If you suffer from severe or persistent attacks of heartburn you must visit your doctor.

Understanding your health condition clearly is the first step towards dealing with it. Once you know the cause, you can choose the natural remedy for heartburn that will work best for you.

Do you think cutting out acidic foods will help heartburn. The answer might surprise you. Find out at: http://natural-heartburn-remedies.blogspot.com

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