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.