This article discusses why acid reflux happens and some common symptoms associated with this strange burning sensation in the stomach. We also share some simple cures from which you can learn on how to stop stomach burning immediately, the list of foods to avoid, and tell you when to contact your doctor. So, read on.
What Causes Stomach Burning?
Our stomach contains acids and digestive enzymes that help break down the food and liquids we consume. The entry of food to the stomach is controlled by a valve (lower esophageal sphincter). This valve does not allow food to re-enter the esophagus or the acids from the stomach to flow into the food pipe. Acid reflux occurs when this sphincter does not close properly, and the stomach acids enter the esophagus, causing a burning sensation along with other symptoms (1), (2). It can be caused due to a variety of reasons. Common ones include:
Overeating Obesity Increased consumption of fatty foods Caffeine Alcohol-based drinks Smoking Lying down after meals Stress Pregnancy
Scientifically, acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Many people think that a burning stomach is only caused by high stomach acid, but it can also be caused by too low stomach acid.
Does IBS Cause A Burning Stomach?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder that can be triggered by hormonal changes, stress, or infections. It has several symptoms, including cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, mucus in the stool, constipation, and, sometimes, burning pain (2). While IBS itself does not directly cause a burning sensation in the stomach, some people may experience it due to increased sensitivity in the gut. Hence, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in the stomach. A 2020 systematic review based on 469,899 global participants show that approximately 63,394 participants are diagnosed with GERD, resulting in an overall prevalence of 13.98%. According to the 2017 UN Revision of World Population Prospects, the global number of individuals with GERD is estimated at 1.03 billion.
Symptoms Of Burning Stomach
Burning sensation in stomach, chest (heartburn), esophagus, and/or throat Nausea and vomiting Gas Burping Bloating Sore throat Cough or wheezing Hiccups Difficulty in swallowing (1), (2)
Certain medications may soothe the discomfort, but they can have negative side effects. As an alternative to these medications, you can try some natural remedies to find what works best to treat your condition. But if you experience burning in the stomach frequently, we suggest you opt for prescribed medicines only.
14 Ways To Stop The Burning Sensation In Your Stomach At Home
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
It might be surprising, but when the stomach acids are burning your esophagus, ingesting more acid can actually calm it down. It regulates the acid production in the stomach and brings about balance (4).
2-3 teaspoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon honey (optional) A glass of water
Mix the vinegar in water and drink this mixture. Drink this whenever you experience acid reflux. If it doesn’t subside after you have a glass of this water, repeat after a few hours. Amanda, a blogger, shares her experience of using apple cider vinegar for various purposes in her blog. One of these purposes includes keeping her gut healthy. She writes, “I have more energy, my digestion is fabulous, and generally speaking, when our tummies feel good, we feel good (i)”
2. Juice/Gel For Burning Stomach
(a) Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has been found to have a moderate neutralizing effect on gastric acids. Thus, it may be of some help in reducing the burning sensation caused by acid reflux (5). If you are prone to developing heartburn, use this remedy 10-15 minutes before you have your meals as a preventive measure for acid reflux.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice A glass of warm water
Add the lemon juice to water and have this on an empty stomach. Have this in the morning to get rid of the acid reflux due to that heavy meal you had last night.
(b) Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel contains anthraquinones that have a laxative effect. Aloe vera is an effective home remedy for heartburn. They not only increase the water content in your intestine but also stimulate water secretion and enable easier movement of stool (6). Therefore, they may help in flushing out the acids accumulated in your stomach and causing the burning sensation. 1/2 cup aloe vera juice Have the gel before a meal. Consume as and when required to relieve heartburn and other symptoms.
3. Milk For Stomach Burning
Cold milk can neutralize the gastric acids in the stomach. Thus, it can restore the natural acid balance in the stomach, reduce acid reflux, and relieve the burning sensation caused by it (5). If you are lactose and casein sensitive, please avoid using this remedy. A glass of cold milk Drink this after your meal. Have cold milk after your meals to avoid or soothe acidity problems.
4. Milk Of Magnesia
If you want to know how to get rid of indigestion, this ingredient is your answer. Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) has an antacid effect on the stomach. It is also used with other medications to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach (7). If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using this remedy. Milk of magnesia liquid Take as directed on the bottle. Using this remedy once should give you relief from the burning sensation.
5. Mastic Gum For Burning Stomach
Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that is said to be associated with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Mastic gum may help in the eradication of H. pylori, which could be causing the burning sensation in your stomach (8). Mastic gum Chew on this gum to relieve heartburn and stomach burning. Whenever you experience acid reflux, just pop one of these gums into your mouth and chew on it.
6. Tea For Burning Stomach
Herbal teas can calm the stomach and have anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, they may help in soothing the burning sensation in the stomach and esophagus (9), (10). Optionally, you can also add a few peppermint leaves or 1-2 drops of food grade peppermint oil to this tea as it may soothe a burning stomach.
1 green/licorice/ginger/chamomile tea bag A cup of hot water Honey (optional)
Have a cup or two in the day to keep acid reflux at bay.
7. Yogurt For Burning Stomach
Yogurt contains probiotics. Probiotics have been found to be effective in the treatment of reflux esophagitis and the burning and pain associated with it (11). 1 cup plain yogurt Have the yogurt, preferably chilled. Have a cup when you experience a burning sensation in your stomach and chest.
8. Baking Soda For Burning Stomach
Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate, which is alkaline in nature. It helps in the treatment of heartburn as its pH is higher than 7.0. It neutralizes the stomach acids and gets rid of the burning sensation (12). Avoid using this remedy for more than a week at a go as it is high in salt and can lead to swelling or nausea.
1 teaspoon baking soda A glass of water
Dissolve the baking soda in water and drink it. You can add honey or lemon juice to enhance the taste. This remedy should give you relief in a couple of minutes. Use it as and when required.
9. Banana/Apple/Papaya For Stomach Burning
Bananas are rich in natural antacids that act as a buffer against acid reflux. They are a rich source of potassium and help keep the level of acid production in your stomach under control. Certain elements in the fruit also help to increase the production of mucus in your stomach, which, in turn, protects it from the harmful effects of excessive acid production. As bananas and apples are high in fiber, they help speed up digestion, thus minimizing incidences of acidity (13), (14), (15). Papaya enzymes are useful in the digestion process and in relieving heartburn (16). 1 cup papaya OR 1 banana OR 1 apple Eat any of the available fruits to get relief from acid reflux. You can use this remedy for quick relief and also as a preventive measure to avoid discomfort due to the burning sensation in the stomach.
10. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a wonderful herbal remedy to treat acid reflux as it lines and soothes the mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines. It can help calm inflammatory bowel symptoms. As it stimulates the nerve endings in your gastrointestinal tract, mucous secretion is enhanced, which protects your GI tract against ulcers and excess acidity (17).
1 teaspoon slippery elm herb A cup of boiling water
Suck on a slippery elm lozenge if you cannot find the herb for the tea. Have a cup or two prior to each meal.
11. Ginger
Ginger root is an effective therapy that helps ease a number of stomach problems – from nausea to acid reflux. It can help calm your stomach and also act as an acid buffer. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects (18).
3 one-inch pieces of ginger 2 cups of water Honey (to taste)
Drink 1-2 cups of ginger tea in the day.
12. Mustard
Mustard is an alkaline food. It may be a bit difficult to consume raw mustard, but its alkaline nature can help neutralize the acid that has risen in your throat (19), (20).
1 teaspoon yellow mustard A glass of water
Gulp down the mustard with the help of the water. Have this whenever you experience heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms.
13. Almonds
Almonds may help alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux and dyspepsia (21). 5-6 almonds Have them after anything you eat, especially after meals. Do this after every meal.
14. Basil
The therapeutic properties of basil leaves may help provide relief from gas, acidity, and nausea (22). Those suffering from acidity frequently can keep dried and crushed basil leaves handy, which can be consumed with water for instant relief.
3-4 basil leaves 1 1/2 cups water Honey (to taste)
You can also simply wash the leaves and eat them. Be sure to chew them thoroughly. Sip this tea 2-3 times a day. Some of these remedies give instant relief while some can take a couple of minutes to show their effects. Check your pantry for the ingredients you have available and use them as recommended above. Let us now look at some practical lifestyle changes that can lessen your chance of experiencing this pain in the future. Scroll down to know.
Lifestyle Changes To Prevent Burning Sensation In Stomach
Making some lifestyle adjustments may significantly reduce the severity of acid reflux. Here are some effective strategies.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach pressure and acid production. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day, and try not to consume too much fluid during meals. Eat mindfully by taking your time, chewing everything, and enjoying every meal. Keep a food journal to find trigger foods that might result in burning sensations. Manage stress with techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to support digestive health. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the abdomen and improve digestive health.
Avoid certain food items that are known to trigger acid reflux in many people. A list of these items is given below.
What Foods To Avoid To Prevent Burning Sensation In The Stomach
These food items are best avoided when you are experiencing a burning sensation in your stomach or if you are prone to developing acid reflux (1).
Foods high in saturated fats, such as French fries, hash browns, onion rings, potato chips, cottage cheese, sour cream, fried cuts of meat, lard, cream-based gravies, etc. High acidic fruits, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes Chocolate Garlic Onion Spicy food Caffeine Alcohol Soda and carbonated beverages
The list given above includes common triggers for burning sensation in the stomach that can be easily eliminated from your diet. In addition to avoiding these kinds of food, consider increasing the amount of whole foods in your diet, like veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods have the potential to enhance digestion and reduce stomach acid production. What are some long-term solutions for managing a burning stomach? Dietary changes, consistent exercise, and stress-reduction strategies are some long-term ways to manage a burning stomach and support digestive health in general. In addition, following a regular eating schedule, drinking plenty of water, and speaking with a doctor about medication options may all ease symptoms and prevent them from recurring. What are the warning signs of gastritis? According to Dr. Steven Line, MD, “The warning signs of gastritis include: • Feeling full or bloated after eating a small amount of food • Nausea or vomiting • Less appetite • Weight loss • Dark or black stools, which may indicate bleeding in the stomach or intestines.” Is burning stomach serious? Dr. Line says, “Whether a burning stomach is serious or not depends on the underlying cause. Some causes of a burning stomach may be relatively benign and easily treated, while others may require more extensive medical intervention.” How long can stomach burning last? Stomach burning may last up to 2 hours or longer. It may also return after several hours, depending on the cause. Is lemon tea good for stomach burning? No, lemon tea can trigger acidity. So, it is best to avoid it. Can drinking too much water lower stomach acid? No, drinking lots of water does not lower stomach acid. But, drinking water may help change the pH of the stomach and help relieve some symptoms (23).
Illustration: Home Remedies For Stomach Burning: Causes And Prevention
