On yesterday's Dr. Oz show, he discussed how Himalayan Salt (available at Home Hardware) has been found to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. One of the possible reasons for this is the 20-50 minerals found in this type of salt (the same kind used to make beautiful salt rock lamps) or that this type of salt reduces acid. Click Here to see the video.
Another option to try is Real Salt:
Compared to RealSalt brand salt, regular “table salts” and also many sea salts appear stark white because they have undergone harsh bleaching and refining. By contrast, RealSalt is extracted from deep within the earth, crushed, screened, and packaged without any bleaching or refining. RealSalt’s unique “pinkish” appearance and flecks of color come from more than 50 natural trace minerals, including iodine.Real Salt is available in the Gourmet department.
My Dad has heartburn and has been using these types of salt recently. Hey Dad, how's your heartburn? [And PS--Where the heck did Richard's Thought of the Day go? Haven't had any lately? ;) ]
Update: Dr Oz also mentioned Himalayan Salt in February 2010 as an inhaler to help with with allergies, sinus infections and breathing difficulties Click here for the video!