It is normal to experience unpleasant sensations when something that you ate doesn’t agree with you. However, when any kind of food, whether spicy or bland, evokes a string of unpleasant sensations, there’s something seriously wrong with the digestive system. One such condition that is known to cause a hot and burning sensation in the throat which is followed by unusual pressure in the chest is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). One of the major symptoms of GERD is heartburn and acid reflux. In fact, if one experiences mild acid reflux twice a week or moderate to severe acid reflux at least once a week, then they are diagnosed with GERD.

GERD can often be resolved with the help of over-the-counter (OTC) medications or by making major lifestyle changes. In certain severe cases where GERD cannot be controlled by medications, surgery is the only viable option. However, there are some effective ways of managing the symptoms of GERD and this proves beneficial in the long run. Some of the home remedies that can be used to manage the symptoms of GERD are:

Use baking soda – Acid reflux is the major symptom of GERD, and if you wish to seek instant relief from the same, try using baking soda. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with 8 ounces of water and drink the entire concoction. Baking soda is effective in neutralizing the stomach acid and even if the acid backs up in the throat, you won’t experience the burning sensation. However, ensure that you do not exceed seven doses of this mixture in a day.

Adopt a low-carb diet -Studies indicate that undigested carbs can cause bacterial overgrowth and increase the pressure in the abdomen. This overgrowth can impair the carb digestion and absorption which can make one gassy and bloated. Moreover, this causes one to belch more often, thereby, bringing the acidic sensation to the throat. So, to prevent this from occurring, you can try adopting a low-carb diet until the symptoms of GERD are resolved.

Chewing gum -For instant relief from GERD and its symptoms, you can try chewing sugar-free gum for about 30 minutes after you eat. Chewing gum stimulates the salivary glands and increases the production of saliva. This saliva proves instrumental in washing away any acid that can backwash into the throat.

Don’t lie down after eating – Often people lie down after lunch or go to sleep directly after dinner and end up experiencing the symptoms of GERD. When you lie down immediately after eating, the contents of your stomach can be easily pushed back up as it exerts pressure on the esophageal sphincter. So, instead of sleeping after eating, sit upright. It is advisable to eat two to three hours before you know you’ll be sleeping for some time as this will allow the food to be completely digested.

Ginger tea – Ginger is used as a home remedy for several health conditions and is known to offer relief from stomachache, nausea, and chronic acid reflux. All you have to do is slice ginger roots and simmer the slices in the water for 30 minutes. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe an irate stomach with ease. To ensure that you do not experience the symptoms of GERD, drink ginger tea before every meal to maximize its effectiveness.