What causes heartburn?
Your stomach is an acidic environment which helps to breakdown food into smaller pieces so that the nutrients can later be absorbed in the small intestine. Some people secrete too much acid in their stomach or their lower esophageal sphincter (a muscle that prevents food from coming back up into the esophagus from the stomach) gets too relaxed. This can cause acid to be released from the stomach into the esophagus which can cause damage to the esophagus over time, as well as that uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest called heartburn.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, and how does it differ from heartburn?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a more painful type of heartburn that occurs more than 2 times a week. 13% of Canadians suffer from GERD and the symptoms that accompany it. Other than heartburn people can have chest pain, trouble swallowing, burning in the mouth and hoarseness of the throat in the morning.
How to manage symptoms of heartburn
1. Avoid smoking and alcohol: smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can cause symptoms of heartburn
2. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help with symptoms
3. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn such as: chocolate, citrus fruits, caffeine, garlic, onion, fried foods, tomato based foods and spicy foods
4. Wear loose-fitting clothing after consuming a meal
5. Avoid laying down for 2-3 hours after consuming a meal
6. Eat smaller meals throughout the day. Large high-fat meals can lead to heartburn
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