Jun 6, 2012

Healthy Living: Heartburn Prevention Tips







Heartburn is a burning pain or discomfort that may move from your stomach to your abdomen or chest, or even up into your throat. Heartburn is one of the most common medical conditions in the world. Recent studies have shown that about 70 million people are affected by the condition within the United States of America alone. Some of the more common symptoms are a burning sensation within the chest area, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, chronic coughing or even some amount of respiratory discomfort that may lead to wheezing. In the event that the cases of heartburn are very regular and you experience heartburn pain in the chest area, you may want to get yourself checked by a doctor.


Prevention Tips:
Don't go to bed with a full stomach. Eat meals at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down -- this will give food time to digest and empty from your stomach, and acid levels a chance to decrease before you lay down.

Don't overeat. Decrease the size of portions at meal times or try eating four to five small meals instead of three large ones.

Eat slowly. Take time to eat - don't rush.

Wear loose-fitting clothes.

Avoid heartburn triggers. Stay away from foods and beverages that trigger your heartburn symptoms (for example, onions, peppermint, chocolate, caffeinated beverages such as coffee, citrus fruits or juices, tomatoes, or high-fat foods).

Shed some pounds. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve heartburn symptoms.

Stop smoking. Nicotine, one of the main active ingredients in cigarettes, can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that controls the opening between the esophagus and stomach, allowing the acid-containing contents of the stomach to enter the esophagus.

Avoid alcohol. If your aim is to unwind after a stressful day, try exercise, meditation, stretching, or deep breathing instead of drinking alcohol.



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