How To Prevent Heartburn

							Heartburn

Heartburn is very common and it can happen to anyone of all ages. It is particular
common especially during holiday season when many parties and celebration take place
and people tend to overeat and drink a lot. People who suffer chronic heartburn or gastro
esophageal reflux disease should be more carefully with the food they eat during this time
of the year.

What Causes Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease

Esophageal sphincter is a muscular valve which can open and close, hence blocking the
stomach acid flowing out the esophagus. People with gastro esophageal reflux disease
tend to have a weaker valve hence unable to fully block the stomach acid from flowing
up to the esophagus. When stomach acid flows up, the person will experience heartburn
sensation. This will happen especially after a full meal.

Tips To Prevent Heartburn

It is also important to take note of your lifestyle. Your may need to change your lifestyle
and eating habits. Some of the following tips can help to prevent heartburn or gastro
esophageal reflux disease:-

   Try not to over eat. Too much food in your stomach will stretch the stomach muscle
    and push the food up. When this happen, the lower part of the esophagus valve will
    relax, allowing the stomach acid to escape back up through the esophagus.

   Avoid caffeine drinks or food. Caffeine is known to trigger the symptoms of gastro
    esophageal reflux disease.

   Avoid carbonated drinks. Carbonated drinks give out a lot of gas and when you burp,
    you will push the stomach acid up the esophagus.

   Avoid juices that can cause heartburn eg. Tomato juice, orange juice, grape juice,
    lemon juice.

   Some people will not be able take dairy products such as cow’s milk, cheese, sour
    cream etc.

   Avoid oily food. Oily food will slow down the digestion process; hence, undigested
    food in the stomach can push back up into the esophagus. Oily food also have a
    tendency to relax the lower esophageal valve, allowing the stomach acid to escape.

   Avoid alcohol especially red wine and white wine which can trigger heartburn.

   It is also important to time when to eat. It is advisable to finish your meal 4 hours
    before bedtime. Lying down in bed after a meal can cause stomach acid reflux.

   Take a slow walk after a meal instead of sitting down will help in digestion process
    and relieve some of the heartburn symptoms.