Heartburn is an uncomfortable and unpleasant feeling, caused by stomach acid flowing back up towards your throat. It can be triggered by a range of factors, including spicy or fatty foods, smoking, pregnancy, stress or anxiety, and a range of others.

Heartburn is a distressing sensation often described as a burning in the chest, resulting from stomach acid traveling upward toward the throat. Several factors can lead to this discomfort, including consuming spicy or fatty foods, smoking, pregnancy, stress, and anxiety, among others.

A TikTok-famous A&E doctor, Dr. Ahmed, who has amassed over 500,000 followers, has shared three straightforward methods to alleviate heartburn that can be easily tried at home. Known as the “healthcare Gordon Ramsay,” Dr. Ahmed posted a video advising, “If it feels like your stomach is attempting to erupt like Mount Fuji through your mouth, here’s what you can do.”

His first suggestion, backed by “high-moderate evidence” of its effectiveness, is to consume foods rich in seaweed and kelp. Dr. Ahmed explained, “Seaweed and kelp release natural alginate in your stomach, creating a protective barrier that shields your stomach and lower esophagus from the acid trying to break through.”

He further noted that this mechanism mirrors the action of medications like Gaviscon. You can find seaweed and kelp at Asian grocery stores or in supplement form at health shops such as Holland and Barrett.

The second tip, which Dr. Ahmed claims has “moderate evidence” supporting it, is to eat oats about an hour before bedtime. “Oats are a great source of natural fiber,” he noted.

“They work by absorbing the acid and keeping it contained in your stomach, preventing it from ascending into your throat and causing a fiery sensation. You can add oats to your evening meal or consume them separately around an hour before you sleep.”

“Your natural saliva contains a damn good amount of bicarbonate, which is literally antacid. Chewing gum for 15 to 20 minutes before you go to bed [will] help you release lots of spit and neutralise all that acid in your stomach and you have a good night’s sleep.”

Concluding, he said: “So try those things and tell me how it went. Or don’t and get an ulcer. I don’t care.”

The NHS also has a number of other tips for dealing with heartburn. These include eating smaller, more frequent meals, losing weight if you’re overweight, and finding ways to relax.

The NHS also suggests avoiding foods that you know trigger your symptoms, not eating three or four hours before bed, and not wearing clothes that are tight around the waist. Smokers are also advised to quit, while too much alcohol should be avoided.

Another tip is to raise the head of your bed by between 10 and 20cm using wood, bricks, or books, so your head and chest are above your waist. This can prevent stomach acid from travelling up your throat. Trying to achieve the same effect using pillows on the bed can make the issue worse. Medications are available and can be prescribed by your GP.