What is the best natural remedy for heartburn or acid reflux?

There are many ways to help reduce heartburn and acid reflux without medication, including:

• Elevate the head of your bed at least six inches.

• Limit foods that cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax during their digestion, such as coffee, chocolate, fatty foods, peppermint and spearmint.

• Limit acidic foods that make the irritation worse when they are regurgitated. These include citrus fruits and tomatoes.

• Avoid carbonated beverages. Burps of gas force the esophageal sphincter to open and can promote reflux.

• Do not lie down after eating.

• Use lozenges or gum to keep producing saliva.