Best heartburn pills - pharmacist's opinion and ranking of 20+ products
Heartburn tablets can effectively help relieve the burning sensation in the oesophagus. Check out the over-the-counter products recommended by your pharmacist.
TekstNina Wawryszuk
Tekst
Nina Wawryszuk
Natu.Care Editor
Nina Wawryszuk specialises in sports supplementation, strength training and psychosomatics. On a daily basis, in addition to writing articles for Natu.Care, as a personal trainer she helps athletes improve their performance through training, diet and supplementation.
Ilona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki
Graduate of Journalism and Artes Liberales at the University of Warsaw. Since 2017, he has been working with the biggest portals in Poland and abroad as an editor. Previously worked for 3 years in one of the leading pharmaceutical companies - he knows the health and beauty industry inside out. In his free time, he most enjoys playing tennis or skiing.
Ludwik Jelonek is the author of more than 2,500 texts published on leading portals. His content has found its way into services such as Ostrovit and Kobieta Onet. At Natu.Care, Ludwik educates people in the most important area of life - health.
Articles on Natu.Care are written based on scientific research, data from government websites and other reliable sources. The texts are written in cooperation with doctors, nutritionists and other health and beauty experts. Articles are reviewed before publication and during significant updates.
Content on Natu.Care may contain links to products from the sale of which we may receive a commission. When creating content, we adhere to high editorial standards and take care to be objective about the products discussed. The presence of affiliate links is not dictated by our partners, and we select the products we review ourselves completely independently.
Gaga is an unpleasant burning sensation in the oesophagus. It can spoil our mood and limit our activities.
Sometimes it appears unexpectedly. At other times, we look forward to it with remorse, finishing a filling dinner (or cream cake). Regardless of the circumstances under which heartburn strikes, we can help ourselves with over-the-counter tablets.
See below for more information on heartburn.
Below you will find a ranking of more than 20 of the best products that can relieve heartburn symptoms. An experienced pharmacist, Ilona Krzak, assisted in the selection of products.
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From this article you will learn:
What are the best heartburn tablets
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How heartburn pills work
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What heartburn is and how it manifests itself
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What are home remedies for heartburn - advice from a nutritionist
Choice criteria: what characterises the best heartburn medicines
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In preparing this ranking, as suggested by the pharmacist, we followed these criteria:
Status of the preparation - whether it is a medicine, a supplement or a medical device.
The status of the preparation - whether it is a medicine, a supplement or a medical device.
Effectiveness - whether the formulation has the dosage and additional ingredients to help relieve heartburn.
Effectiveness - whether the formulation has the dosage and additional ingredients to help relieve heartburn.
Origin of heartburn - it can be a symptom of both, for example, reflux disease and dyspepsia (indigestion).
Ranking of best heartburn tablets
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You can read a detailed analysis of heartburn preparations below. You will find pills and other forms of products that will be helpful in treating the unpleasant ailment.
An effective over-the-counter medicine with pantoprazole, which inhibits the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Expert opinion
The active substance of this medicine is pantoprazole – a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is the most effective and safest drug for the treatment of heartburn. It inhibits the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and reduces hyperacidity, which relieves unpleasant burning in the oesophagus. The 20 mg dose was until recently only available by prescription and can now be purchased by any patient.
Prolonged use of PPIs may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency as it reduces its absorption. Vegans and patients taking metformin should be particularly careful. The same is true of magnesium and iron salts, so people with anaemia also need to exercise caution.
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You can read more about vitamin B12 in the articles:
A drug with three substances that reduce burning sensations in the oesophagus.
Additional information
Note!
Treatment time is a maximum of 15 days. Prolonged use may result in increased stomach discomfort.
Expert opinion
The composition of Manti Extra contains three active ingredients that help to reduce the sensation of heartburn. Famotidine inhibits the secretion of hydrochloric acid. Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide neutralise gastric juice, which reduces the discomfort associated with heartburn. The preparation is a medicine, which guarantees us the quality declared by the manufacturer.
Over-the-counter medication with famotidine. Recommended for the short-term symptomatic treatment of heartburn, indigestion and hyperacidity.
Expert opinion
A drug containing famotidine, an H2-receptor blocker. This means that it inhibits the secretion of hydrochloric acid, increases the pH in the stomach and has the effect of reducing the discomfort associated with heartburn. The effect of the drug is long – up to 12 hours per day. Famotidine Ranigast can be taken for a maximum of 2 weeks.
For digestive complaints, heartburn, burning in the throat and chest caused by backflow of gastric contents into the oesophagus.
Expert opinion
Over-the-counter heartburn medicine. It contains sodium alginate, which reduces the symptoms of heartburn, as well as gastric and oesophageal mucosal coating, which alleviates the irritating effect of hydrochloric acid. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are substances that neutralise the pH of the stomach. The unquestionable advantage of the preparation is that it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Gastric juice consists ofand of digestive enzymes, hydrochloric acid and other substances important for the absorption of nutrients. Approximately 3 to 4 litres of gastric juice are produced daily.
It coats the mucous membrane of the digestive system with a protective layer and effectively relieves the symptoms of hyperacidity and heartburn.
Flavonoids contained in the preparation have antioxidant properties - they protect cells against the action of harmful free radicals.
Expert opinion
Suplement diety w postaci tabletek do ssania. Dobry wybór dla osób, które nie lubią połykać kapsułek. Contains a special polysaccharide complexós, which coats the mucous membranes of the stomach and oesophagus and provides them with protection against the harmful effects of strongly acidic gastric contents during heartburn.
A medical device in the form of mouth-soluble tablets that relieves the symptoms of hyperacidity and burning sensations in the oesophagus.
Extracts of valerian root, mallow and aloe vera coat the gastric mucosa and promote its regeneration, especially when irritated by heartburn. Chamomile extract has a soothing effect and improves digestion. Calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate act as hydrochloric acid neutralisers, which is important in reducing heartburn symptoms.
Expert opinion
A very interestingly compounded herbal–mineral preparation for the reduction of heartburn symptoms. Alginic acid has a coating and protective effect on the gastric mucosa. In turn, glycyrrhetinic acid 18% from liquorice root extract has anti-inflammatory properties.
An effective and fast-acting remedy to alleviate, among other things, the symptoms of heartburn, the feeling of fullness and belching.
Additional information
In addition to the treatment of heartburn, this medicine can be used for the symptomatic treatment of complaints related to:
peptic ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum,
gastritis,
hyperacidity,
other gastric disorders.
Expert opinion
The preparation contains three active ingredients that relieve, among other things, the symptoms of heartburn. The two hydroxides have an antacidifying effect on hydrochloric acid, while simethicone relieves the feeling of fullness, flatulence and belching. Manti helps to treat stomach irritations and protects the stomach for longer by forming a protective layer on its walls.
A fast-acting medicine that effectively relieves the unpleasant symptoms of heartburn.
Expert opinion
Antacid medication with calcium and magnesium carbonates that relieve heartburn. Its action is rapid and effective. It is a relatively safe product, but may interfere with the absorption of other medicinesós due to the increased pH of gastric juice.
Therefore, its use is advisable to consult a doctor and to establish the dosage and the time of intake. Rennie Antacidum can be used during pregnancy and lactation in the recommended doses and as indicated.
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Check out our other rankings prepared by a pharmacist and choose products consciously:
The drug has a protective effect on the mucous membranes of the irritated gastrointestinal tract and accelerates the natural healing and tissue regeneration processes of the mucous membrane.
Expert opinion
This preparation contains polymer E (polyvinylbutyl ether). It is a viscous compound thatós excellent at staying on the mucous membranes, forming an effective protective layer on them. It is excellent for heartburn and gastric ulcers as an „internal dressing” whichóallows the gastric mucosa to regenerate quickly. Avilin Gastro should not be used for more than 28 days.
A medicine in the form of a lotion that neutralises the pH of the stomach and shields its mucous membrane.
Additional information
Gelatum may cause the absorption of other medicines to be impaired. If you are taking medications on a regular basis, consult your healthcare practitioner. The daily dose of 100 ml should not be exceeded.
Expert opinion
Aluminium phosphate drug, whichós effect is to neutralise gastric pH and shield the gastric and duodenal mucosa. On the surface of the mucosa and its cavitiesóy, it forms water- and digestive juice-insoluble bonds shielding against harmful agentsóy (e.g. during heartburn).
As many as 9 plant extracts that have an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the stomach.
Additional information
Abnormal gastric peristalsis can manifest as heartburn. For this reason, digestive preparations that improve digestion are often effective in treating the unpleasant condition, as they relieve dyspepsia (indigestion).
Expert opinion
A plant medicine with 9 plant extracts in drop form. Recommended for indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome (heartburn, abdominal and intestinal cramps, abdominal painól, feeling of fullness, nausea, flatulence). Iberogast supports digestive processes and eliminates indigestion symptoms.
A unique combination of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulphate and aluminium hydroxide. Alleviate symptoms of heartburn and other gastrointestinal complaints.
A heartburn medicine with a mixture of alkaline salts that exhibits choleretic and cholagogic properties and has an antacid effect on the acidic contents of the stomach.
A good over-the-counter heartburn medicine should contain 100% ingredients with no unnecessary additives, substances with proven effects on heartburn and be in a pleasant form of administration. Recommended tablets for reflux without prescription are: Anesteloc MAX, Manti Extra and Famotidine Ranigast.
What is heartburn?
Gust is definedand as a burning sensation or discomfort behind the sternum that may radiate into the neck. It usually occurs after eating a meal or, independent of eating, when lying down. The condition is associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux, the backflow ofand gastric juices into the oesophagus.
Symptoms of heartburn
How to recogniseand heartburn? Patients most commonly complain ofand:
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a burning sensation in the chest that may radiate into the throat,
a sour, astringent or bitter taste in the mouth,
difficulty swallowing,
increasing pain after lying down or bending over,
coughing or hoarseness,
How can you tell the difference between heartburn and heart attack?
You have certainly heard that the symptoms of a heart attack can be similar to heartburn. How do you tell the difference between the two symptoms? I asked Dr Witold Tomaszewski, M.D., about this.
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Ghag is usually an isolated symptom. It is sometimes accompanied by bloating and an unpleasant feeling of fullness. In myocardial infarction there are usually other symptoms as well, such as:
sweating,
increased temperature,
weakness often leading to fainting,
radiation of pain to the jaw, arm,
tachycardia or bradycardia,
rhythm disturbances felt as heartbeats/ palpitations,
dizziness,
pallor or redness of facial skin,
vomiting,
spiration,
Are heartburn and reflux the same thing?
No, heartburn and reflux are not the same thing. Reflux (actually gastroesophageal reflux disease - GERD) is a conditionand involving the abnormal backflow of acidic gastric contents into the oesophagus due to a failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter. Heartburn is one of the symptomsand of this condition.
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Today, the problem of overuse of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be observed. These drugs are recommended as a cover for the use of many other drugs (e.g. antibiotics) completely without meaning to. If the drugs used chronically do not have the potential to damage the gastric and duodenal mucosa, the prophylactic use of PPIs is unwarranted.
Patients themselves often ask at the pharmacy for a 'drug shield' during antibiotic therapy, confusing probiotics with proton pump inhibitors, adds the MSc pharmacist. Modern heartburn medications are effective, but need to be used with caution.
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Stress affects the digestive system and can exacerbate unpleasant discomfort.
I asked Dr Arthur Drobniak, M.D., about the safety of heartburn tablets in pregnancy. What should pregnant women pay attention to?"
The feeling of heartburn is a common problem reported by pregnant patients, which is related to anatomical changes - the growing uterus in the abdominal cavity - and hormonal changes such as the production of oestrogens and gestagens during pregnancy.
The mainstay of safe management is the use of antacid formulations containing calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate with meals. Many preparations are available without a prescription.
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In many cases, however, this management is insufficient and sometimes the woman requires the help of pharmacotherapy or a physiotherapist. In such cases, it is the attending physician who decides on the form of therapy to be used, tailoring its safety profile to the individual needs of each patient.
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Arthur Drobniakdoctor of medical sciences, specialist in gynecology and obstetrics, co-founder of Feminature Clinic
Home remedies for heartburn
Taking heartburn medication is just masking the problems. Take care of your diet to avoid burning in your oesophagus. I've got a handful of seven tips for you from Marta Kaczorek, a clinical nutritionist.
Care for your diet
Unprescribed gastric acid-reducing drugs are one thing. How about a diet for heartburn? Well, you probably can't eat anything but rusks! You may think that a heartburn diet is unattractive and unpalatable, but contrary to what you may think, there are plenty of foods to choose from which you can make interesting, filling meals.
Products recommended for heartburn include:
lean hot soups (cooler is not a good choice),
lean meat,
lean dairy products
lean dairy products,
lean soups,
lean meat,
lean meat.
fish,
eggs,
ripe and peeled fruits,
fruits.
desserts such as kisses, puddings, mousses,
flaxseed jelly,
delicate spices,
herbal teas (other than mint),
cereal coffee,
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Products not recommended for heartburn are:
fatty, fried and smoked foods,
highly processed foods such as crisps,
chocolate,
coffee,
spicy spices,
citrus fruits,
citrus fruit juices,
heavy-digestible vegetables, e.g. onions, garlic, tomato,
Keep a food diary
With heartburn, it is difficult for some patients to give up their favourite foods. I therefore recommend keeping a food diary: for a few days, write down what you eat, at what time, and how you feel after a meal.
It is possible to find out what you eat, what time you eat and how you feel after a meal.
It may turn out that a particular product does not give you heartburn and you do not have to give it up. It can also work the other way round: a particular product can unexpectedly turn out to be a trigger for unpleasant burning in the oesophagus.
Reduce the weight of your food and keep it down.
Lose weight
When overweight and obese, it is a good idea to get rid of excess weight. Abdominal obesity increases intra-abdominal pressure, interferes with the function of the oesophagus and can cause a number of unpleasant discomforts, such as heartburn and reflux.
Take care of your sleep
Sleeping with your head higher than your chest (about 15-20 cm) can help you relieve heartburn symptomsand. Elevate your head with an extra pillow. It is also recommended to sleep on your left side. Make sure you follow sleep hygiene rules.
Quit addictions
Alcohol and cigarettes are the best 'friends' of heartburn. They reduce the tension of the lower oesophageal sphincter (which worsens its function). Cigarettes impair the secretion of saliva, which is important for digestionand.
Care for meal hygiene
Simple tips you can implement today - at your next meal.
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Eat regularly. This will keep the hormones associated with feelings of hunger and satiety at optimal levels, avoid hunger attacks and keep you energised for action.
Eat your meal slowly. Eat mindfully - savour every bite, focus on the taste, smell of the food.
Don't overeat. An overloaded digestive system doesn't work properly and can exacerbate unpleasant symptoms such as heartburn or stomach pain.
Avoid exertion after eating. Once you have eaten a meal, refrain from lifting, bending or heavy exercise for two hours.
Do not lie down after a meal. A nap or blissful laziness after a tasty meal seems tempting. For health and a better metabolism - it's better to go for a walk.
Change your wardrobe!
If your wardrobe is full of tight trousers or belts that are too small - you have two choices: shed the excess weight, or go shopping and buy yourself comfortable, non-pressing clothes.
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Tight clothing (especially trousers, belts) can causeand an increase in intra-abdominal pressure - which promotes the occurrence of heartburn.
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Marta Kaczorekclinical nutritionist and personal trainer
Gaga - a burning problem. When to see a doctor
You use heartburn preparations and take care of your meal hygiene and yet, you continue to experience a bothersome burning sensation in your oesophagus. When should you see your doctor?
It's a good idea to take your heartburn medication.
Ghag usually passes quite quickly after taking appropriate medication to reduce gastric juice secretion. Elimination of its causative factors and implementation of an easily digestible diet, reduction of alcohol, stress is usually sufficient.
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If the problem is persistent, it is worth seeing your Primary Care Physician and having a gastroscopy with assessment of the oesophageal entry into the stomach.
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Witold Tomaszewskidoctor of medical sciences
Gaga can even last for years and can effectively make a patient's life miserable and limited. We should not procrastinate and be afraid to see a specialist," adds the doctor.
I used to keep a food diary when heartburn was bothering me. I've cleared you up - you don't need to check if crisps aggravate the burning in your oesophagus. I have checked several times - unfortunately, they need to be eliminated!
Thanks for reading the article - I hope you already know what heartburn product to buy and eat tonight's dinner slowly and mindfully. Do you have your own heartburn remedies? Share in the comments, I'm curious.
Summary
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From this article remember:
For heartburn, preparations containing pantoprazole, famotidine, calcium carbonate are best.
Tablets containing pantoprazole, famotidine, calcium carbonate are best.
Tablets for heartburn inhibit the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which reduces the sensation of heartburn.
Tablets for heartburn are the best.
Gburn products can help treat this condition, but the best results come from a combination of heartburn tablets and proper diet and meal hygiene.
Prolonged feelings of heartburn, especially that do not diminish after implementing diet and medication, is an indication to see a doctor.
FAQ
What heartburn tablets are recommended?
The heartburn tablets recommended by pharmacists are: Anesteloc Max, Manti Extra, Ranigast, Gaviscon and Rennie. When looking for heartburn tablets, choose those that contain omeprazole, pantoprazole, famotidine or calcium carbonate. These are effective alkaline drugs - they neutralise stomach acids.
What for heartburn fast?
For heartburn quickly (but for a short time), consuming alkaline foods can help, so they neutralise stomach acids. Drinking a glass of milk or water with a teaspoon of soda, eating a handful of almonds, or a banana will help quickly for heartburn.
Does drinking water help heartburn?
Yes, drinking water helps with heartburn. When you feel a burning sensation in your oesophagus, it is a good idea to drink a glass of water. Drinking water before and after meals is especially recommended. Remember that an adult should consume about 2.5 litres of water a day.
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How to get rid of heartburn once and for all
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To get rid of heartburn once and for all, avoid hard to digest foods, processed foods, excessive salt in the diet and choose easily digestible, nutritious foods, rich in vitamins and minerals. Regular physical activity, limiting stimulants and reducing stress are helpful.
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What water to drink when suffering from heartburn.
To maintain the correct acid-base balance in the body, it is recommended to drink alkaline water with a pH of 8.5-9.5. Such water promotes acid neutralisation and fights excess free radicals, oxygenates the body and provides it with many valuable minerals.
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How can you tell if it's heartburn?
Gust is easy to recognise because it has characteristic symptoms: a burning and burning sensation in the oesophagus, behind the sternum, sometimes reaching as far as the throat. Heartburn can also be manifested by acid reflux or by stomach contents being thrown up into the oesophagus and a sour, astringent or bitter taste in the mouth.
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What not to eat for heartburn.
In the diet for heartburn the following should be avoided: fatty, fried and smoked foods; fast food; hard to digest vegetables such as onions, garlic, leek, cabbage, tomato and its preserves, citrus fruits: lemons, oranges, grapefruit; mushrooms; pickled vegetables.
What not to eat for heartburn?
Does lemon juice help heartburn?
No, lemon juice does not help heartburn, and consuming lemon juice or water can exacerbate heartburn symptoms due to its acidity, which further increases the acidity of digestive juices. The vitamin C contained in citrus increases the production of gastric juices, which can exacerbate burning in the oesophagus.
Barlow, W. J., & Orlando, R. C.. (2005). The pathogenesis of heartburn in nonerosive reflux disease: A unifying hypothesis. Gastroenterology, 128(3), 771-778. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2004.08.014
Eusebi, L. H., Ratnakumaran, R., Yuan, Y., Solaymani-Dodaran, M., Bazzoli, F., & Ford, A. C. (2018). Global prevalence of, and risk factors for, gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms: A meta-analysis. Gut, 67(3), 430-440. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2016-313589
Fujimori, S. (2020). Gastric acid levels of humans must decrease in the future. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 26(43), 6706-6709. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v26.i43.6706
Kellerman, R., & Kintanar, T. (2017). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, 44(4), 561-573. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pop.2017.07.001
Richter, J. E., & Rubenstein, J. H. (2018). Presentation and Epidemiology of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Gastroenterology, 154(2), 267-276. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2017.07.045
Surdea-Blaga, T., Negrutiu, D. E., Palage, M., & Dumitrascu, D. L. (2019). Food and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 26(19), 3497-3511. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867324666170515123807
Nina Wawryszuk specialises in sports supplementation, strength training and psychosomatics. On a daily basis, in addition to writing articles for Natu.Care, as a personal trainer she helps athletes improve their performance through training, diet and supplementation.
Master of Pharmacy
Ilona Bush
Verified by an expert
Ilona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki
Editor
Michael Tomaszewski
Graduate of Journalism and Artes Liberales at the University of Warsaw. Since 2017, he has been working with the biggest portals in Poland and abroad as an editor. Previously worked for 3 years in one of the leading pharmaceutical companies - he knows the health and beauty industry inside out. In his free time, he most enjoys playing tennis or skiing.
Natu.Care Editor
Ludwik Jelonek
Ludwik Jelonek is the author of more than 2,500 texts published on leading portals. His content has found its way into services such as Ostrovit and Kobieta Onet. At Natu.Care, Ludwik educates people in the most important area of life - health.
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