Natural, Effective Heartburn Remedy: Too Good to be True? Using chia seed to cure heartburn
By Kristin Koller Whitaker
Whether accosted by constant hellfire in your chest or the occasional internal reprimand for eating a jalapeno bacon burger after 10 pm, most of us have suffered the sting of heartburn. Web MD cites a mere 15 million Americans a day will feel the fire. Even the strictest of raw vegans can suffer the wrath in times of stress, sickness, or pregnancy. There are as many medications available as there are causes. Considering how much heartburn medications cost, would you be surprised to find a natural remedy that is effective and inexpensive? I was. I rejoiced when I found out that chia seeds, my favorite super food and terracotta pet product, can be used to significantly decrease, if not eliminate heartburn altogether.
What is Chia?
A tiny little seed with big benefits. Only 1 oz of dry seeds has 9% of your protein for the day and 42% of your dietary fiber. It is among the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids available, is high in a spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals and is easily absorbed so even those with irritable bowels or upset stomachs can take it. Added to liquid, it forms a gel that can blend seamlessly into any recipe.
Chia has a myriad of health benefits, but I promised you one: HeartburnBGone!
Chia, meet Heartburn
Because of its unique hydrophilic properties, chia can absorb 12 times its weight in water. While this has awesome implications for both dieters and marathon trainees, this is specifically how it is able to battle acid reflux. While many prescription heartburn meds interfere with your body’s production of hydrochloric acid, chia will absorb the excess acid and then pass it without disrupting your balance or confusing your system. It acts in harmony with your body while still offering quick relief.
Here’s what you do:
While chia is most often taken in gel form, for heartburn you use the seeds dry. No worries, they are nearly flavorless…certainly better than some chalky OTC alternatives!
Take 1 tablespoon of chia seed dry; more or less as you think necessary. Really, you can’t overdose. Wash them down with a gulp of water, in the same manner you would take a pill. Wait about 5 minutes and then drink a full glass of water or more. Repeat as necessary.
Do this daily as a health supplement to treat and prevent chronic heartburn (at night and/or in the morning) or take as needed for flare-ups.
Testimonials:
My husband, who deserves heartburn for his eating antics (he once ate 36 slices of pizza in one sitting!), has been able to give up Prilosec and antacids. He eats chia at breakfast everyday. My sister has had reflux since she was a teenager and is now off all meds. I had a horrible attack on a recent road trip (Jack-In-the-Box should market emergency chia chasers!) and thought I was going to die. Going from a raw food regimen to a road trip diet nearly did me in. An entire bottle of Tums didn’t touch it. Chia saved the day. It took two doses, but the blessed relief settled in and I was saved.
This stuff is especially miraculous for mommies-to-be. I have introduced chia to several pregnant friends who now sing the praises of the Aztec wonder seed. Instead of spitting fire for 9 months wondering what is safe to take, try using chia everyday. The nutritional benefits will give you an energy boost and the omega-3s will assure your child is an Einstein.
More Chia Superpowers
Heartburn relief is only one of chia’s many uses. Unlike many superfoods, chia has no aftertaste and is easy to hide, making it supremely kid friendly. I use it in sauces, soups and smoothies. I make a pudding with it that my kids fight over. You can grind it into flour or cook with the gel. Chia can be used as an egg or fat substitute in baking. Runners and hikers use it as a portable, high-energy food. It is said that Aztec warriors ran all day on nothing but chia.
Bid farewell to expensive medications with mediocre results. Say goodbye to heartburn the natural, effective way. Whether you are using it to extinguish heartburn or to supplement your healthy lifestyle, chia seed will prove that tiny things can have great impact. Happy Chia-ing!
Important note: because they absorb water, chia can be helpful in regulating hydration and helping the body utilize water more efficiently. This is great news for athletes and makes chia a great pre and post workout snack. However, the same properties make them hazardous: chia will pull water from your body and actually dehydrate you if not taken with ample amounts of water. If taking seeds dry, always always follow up with water!
Meet Kristin Koller Whitaker
Kristin Koller Whitaker is a mother of four and a whole food enthusiast. Educated as an editor, a job with a small herb company, Golden Herbs, opened her eyes to the powers of real nutrition. She believes you only realize your potential when you nourish yourself body and soul. Her family runs a backyard barnyard outside of Salt Lake City. Together, they aspire to be as self-sustaining as possible. Kristin shares her misadventures in homesteading at www.littlepurplebarn.com