Heartburn can be incredibly uncomfortable, which is why most people want to stop acid reflux fast. While experiencing frequent acid reflux can lead to further complications such as GERD, acid reflux can be treated by taking things like a diet suppllement for heart burn, an alka seltzer for heart burn, an acidity relief tablet, or a pepcid ac for heartburn relief. While the best treatment for acid indigestion may vary from person to person, there are a number of natural remedies for heartburn that might also be worth testing out. In this article, we outline 6 effective natural remedies to help lessen painful heartburn:

1. Aloe juice
While aloe vera is a known component of skincare—including as a natural remedy for soothing sunburns—its counterpart, aloe juice, is a lesser known remedy for acid reflux. Drinking around half a cup of aloe juice before enjoying a meal can settle the esophagus and stomach, therefore reducing the risk of heartburn and irritation resulting from acid reflux.

2. Bananas and apples
Thanks to their natural antacids, bananas work against the discomfort of acid reflux. By enjoying a delicious banana every day, you have an easy and effective natural remedy for heartburn. However, if you’re a hater of bananas, apples will also work great, thanks to their alkaline minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, all of which help to relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.

3. Quit smoking
While smoking is known to cause an array of conditions and ailments, it also agitates and worsens acid reflux symptoms. As a result of the irritation it causes to the esophagus—as well as the weakening of the muscle responsible for keeping acids in the stomach—smoking only makes heartburn even worse. Although it can be difficult to quit smoking, it’s definitely something to consider.

4. Don’t lie flat after eating
Although this one may come as a bit of a surprise, a simple effective remedy—all natural, of course—to avoid heartburn is to not lie flat after eating, as this can worsen heartburn by triggering acid reflux. Thus, it is recommended to give the stomach time to empty by avoiding food within 2-3 hours of going to bed.

5. Sugar-free gum
Increasing the production of saliva after a meal—since saliva aids in diluting acid—is terrific for preventing heartburn. To do this, just chew a piece of sugar-free gum for around 30 minutes—maybe even blow some bubbles—and enjoy preventing acid production!

6. Avoid tight-fitting clothing
Although this remedy is easier for some than others, it might be in your best interest to avoid clothing that is too tight-fitting as it can put pressure on your stomach and increase your symptoms of heartburn. While this remedy doesn’t need to be followed all the time, paying it mind on days where heartburn is particularly challenging can be helpful in decreasing discomfort.