Go Ad-Free
logoThe People's Perspective on Medicine

For This Reader, Almonds Help Heartburn More Than Medicine Does

Q. I read about using almonds for heartburn, and I’ve found it works great, better than any over-the-counter medicine I’ve ever tried. (I am leery of the prescription meds due to food allergies and medication sensitivities.)

I have also tried almond milk and almond butter, and both worked just as well. I’ve started keeping a jar of almond butter in my bathroom, for middle-of-the-night heartburn.

A. We have heard from many readers that as few as two almonds can prevent or stop heartburn. (Some take a small handful.) A few readers have also experimented with almond milk and found it beneficial. You are the only one to report keeping almond butter handy for nighttime reflux. Use a small spoon, so you don’t choke. (We have heard from people reporting tragic consequences when a friend or neighbor swallowed a spoonful of peanut butter to battle hiccups and ended up choking on it.)

We include many other home remedies for heartburn in our inexpensive Guide to Digestive Disorders. The Guide also discusses the pros and cons of prescription medications for GERD. Since heartburn is a clear symptom, you can be confident in judging whether or not your remedy is helping.

Rate this article
star-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-empty
4- 35 ratings
About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
Tired of the ads on our website?

Now you can browse our website completely ad-free for just $5 / month. Stay up to date on breaking health news and support our work without the distraction of advertisements.

Browse our website ad-free
Join over 150,000 Subscribers at The People's Pharmacy

We're empowering you to make wise decisions about your own health, by providing you with essential health information about both medical and alternative treatment options.