Methods For Heartburn Relief

Posted: Apr 28 in Reflux Disease by Staff

Heartburn happens when acid backs up into the esophagus. Sometimes, frequent episodes or long, chronic episodes of heartburn may indicate a more serious condition known as GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease). GERD should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor to avoid potential complications from prolonged contact of the esophagus with stomach acid.
If your heartburn comes and goes it could be an environmental factor such as laying down after eating a meal. The angle of the body during digestion can cause acid to creep back up into the esophagus.
The best way to avoid heartburn is to eat more frequent, small meals. A doctor or nutritionist can give you specific meal plans or guidelines that will exclude foods that commonly cause heartburn and help you with portion control.
Small, frequent meals are highly recommended because filling the stomach creates a distended state, which then increases pressure making acid escape more likely. Acid escaping in to the esophagus will cause heartburn.
A person with sensitivity to milk may experience more frequent heartburn due to not having enough of the enzyme required to digest milk sugar.
Other potential causes that can be easily avoided: Smoking, overuse of antacids, tight clothing or belt, and even sleeping on the right side at night can all increase incidences of heartburn.
Some helpful suggestions to get rid of heartburn: Potatoes, beans, asparagus, Brazil nuts, tuna, yogurt, salmon, and whole wheat pasta all lower acid levels in the stomach thus reducing the chances heartburn will happen.