It isn't just food that can cause heartburn. Sometimes it's the medications we take to treat other conditions that can be the culprit. Some medications can cause heartburn by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents to reflux back up into the esophagus. For those who suffer from heartburn the symptoms can be unbearable at times. For some, prescription medication is necessary to treat heartburn. There are also vitamins that can be taken along with prescription medications to help provide some relief of the symptoms of heartburn.

Before discussing any vitamins and supplements that can be beneficial in relieving the symptoms of heartburn, I must stress that you talk to your doctor before adding anything new to your diet. Although it is rare, certain vitamins, supplements and herbs can react adversely with prescription medications. It is also important to research the vitamins you are interested in taking, as some are not well tolerated by those with stomach disorders and can be more harmful than good.

Below is a list of some of the most common vitamins, herbs and supplements that can be used to help relieve and manage the symptoms of heartburn.

Vitamin C: (250 mg to 500 mg twice per day) useful in temporarily reducing your stomach acidity.

B Vitamins: are essential for proper digestion and energy production. Choline, pantothenic acid, and thiamin are B-complex vitamins that can have long-term digestive benefits. Choline is an important element of the fat-digesting substance known as bile. Having too little choline in the body can interfere with the body's ability to produce bile and digest fats properly, and increases the risk of developing gallstones Vitamin B-complex includes several different components, each of which has the potential to interact with drugs. It is recommended that you discuss the use of vitamin B-complex and your current medication(s) with your doctor or pharmacist.

Folic Acid: (400mcg per day) is a B vitamin needed for cell replication and growth.

Vitamin D: serves to maintain mineral homeostasis by regulation of calcium absorption in the gut.

Zinc: (30mg per day) is an essential mineral that is a component of more than 300 enzymes needed to repair wounds, synthesize protein, help cells reproduce, boost immunity, and protect against free radicals, among other functions.

Sodium helps maintain a healthy acid/ alkaline balanceCalcium: supplements can provide quick relief from heartburn. Calcium may also help the body in the long term: Calcium is not just stored in bones, but circulates the body in the bloodstream and helps to produce the hormones and enzymes that the body needs for regulate energy release, proper digestion, and metabolism.

Aloe Vera: is another fast-acting supplement that acts as an anti-inflammatory, and frequently helps soothe the irritation in the esophagus that can be caused by heartburn. Aloe Vera has been used in Europe and Japan to relieve heartburn and ulcers for many years.