What can relieve heartburn?
Heartburn occurs when acid moves from its natural place in the stomach to where it does not belong, that is, up into the food pipe or esophagus, causing burning pains under the breastbone or at the bottom of the esophagus. Relief is possible by both natural and artificial means. In many cases, acid indigestion and heartburn can be reduced in frequency or even stopped altogether by simple changes in diet and lifestyle. The following are general measures that may help reduce the incidence of reflux: • Do not lie down right after eating or within two to three hours of bedtime. • Elevate the head of the bed four to six inches. • Lose weight if overweight. • Stop smoking. • Instead of large meals, eat smaller, more frequent meals. • Avoid: • Chocolate • Coffee and alcohol • Fried and fatty foods • Mint products (i.e., peppermint, spearmint) • Carbonated beverages and citrus fruits or juices • Tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and vinegar • Aspirin and most pain medicines (other than acetamino
