An Apple A Day Keep THIS Away?

Independence Day celebrations have wrapped up, but summer is just getting started.

And if your house is anything like mine, this summer will involve lots of fun – and food.

But for many folks, this time of year is anything but fun.

In fact, it can be downright unpleasant.

Because of heartburn.

Summertime favorites like fatty cuts of meats on the grill and spicy salsa and wings, can cause heartburn so bad it feels like their chest and throat are on fire.

And it's not just food that can cause issues.

Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages are known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which may allow stomach acid to escape into the esophagus and trigger heartburn.

When you're experiencing the pain of heartburn, you want to cool the pain fast.

Here are a few easy, natural ways to relieve heartburn quickly and naturally, so you aren't stuck on the sidelines and missing out on the fun.

Everyone knows the saying an apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Well, you could also say an apple a day keeps the heartburn at bay.

You see, apples help neutralize the excess acid in your stomach.

And you don't even need to eat a whole apple to feel better.

Simply munch on a few slices and you should start to feel an improvement.

Almonds are another good option because the nut's high oil content helps to neutralize stomach acid.

A handful is all you need to relieve heartburn in about 30 minutes.

When you were a kid, did your mom ever give you ginger ale to ease an upset stomach?

Mom was on to something.

Ginger can inhibit the production of excess acid in the stomach, which helps quench the fire burning in your chest and throat.

Sip some ginger tea, or chew some of the root raw, if you have it on hand.

Want to freshen your breath and ease the discomfort of heartburn at the same time?

Pop a stick of gum in your mouth.

The act of chewing gum stimulates your body to start producing saliva.

And swallowing this saliva can help dilute and clear stomach acid from your esophagus.

Have any apple cider vinegar in the house?

A mixture of two teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar with a half cup of water can be effective at the first sign of heartburn.

Admittedly, not everyone's a fan of the stuff. It's definitely an acquired taste.

But drinking it regularly is not only great for easing heartburn, it can also knock out a lot of nasty bacteria in the body, is great for pickling, and is incredible for your blood sugar.

If you don't have any of these foods or drinks in your home, a simple yoga pose might help by relieving some of the pressure on your midsection.

The reclining hero pose stretches your abdomen and helps relieve digestive pressure.

Start by kneeling with your knees hip-width apart.

Slowly lower your back torso toward the floor, first leaning onto your hands, then your forearms and elbows, and finally use your fingertips and palms to support your lower back as you release all the way to the ground.

With your hands at your sides, take long, deep breaths.

Hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

If the stretch is too intense, place a pillow under your head or back to help take the pressure off your knees.

No one should miss out on summertime fun and food due to digestive issues, like heartburn.

Give these heartburn hacks a try and enjoy all that the season offers.