Before we discuss about heartburn let me give you a brief note of what is heartburn and what caused it. Heartburn refers to reflex of acidic stomach contents back to the mouth. Acidity of the stomach contents causes damage to the internal lining of the esophagus which results in severe pain. Thus, the pain that results as a result of frequent reflux of acidic stomach contents in termed as heartburn. Wondering why is it named as heartburn? It is just the similarity in the severity of the pain caused by refluxing acidic contents to that of the heart burn.

It has been found that consuming large amounts of spicy foods aggravates the problem. Hence, the soaring pain of heartburn can be overcome by regulating the eating habits. Now, let us focus on the so called bad foods that are to be avoided to either reduce or prevent heartburn.

• If you have heartburn, it is essential that you avoid foods that are rich in acids such as citric acid and hydrochloric acid. Thus, citrus foods such as tomatoes, lemon have to be avoided. Another most important food that you have to stay away is vinegar which is mild form of hydrochloric acid.

• Some people say that spaghetti sauce is also a bad food that stimulates heartburn. However, the effect can be reduced by mixing certain amount of sugar in it. Good thing is to reduce the consumption of sauce rather than searching for alternatives measures to prevent the bad effects.

• Everyone loves to have crispy fried foods. But, they are also in the list of culprits for heartburn. Hence, they have to be avoided. It is essential to think of the nutritious value of the foods before you consume them and avoid all junk foods such as burgers and pizzas that are fat rich foods. It is found that fatty foods take long time to digest and thus stimulate secretion of greater amounts of HCL which in turn stimulates heartburn. You should stay away from fatty junk foods.

• Coming to the drinks, caffeinated beverages, sodas, and alcohol have to be eliminated.

• Some people develop the symptoms of heartburn after having whole milk dairy products. But, it is essential to have dairy products to meet the calcium requirements of the body. Hence, it is recommended to consume skimmed milk products that are devoid of fats rather than consuming whole-milk products.

• The general components of spicy foods, garlic and onion also promote heartburn.

You can definitely obtain relief from heartburn by avoiding the above listed foods. Apart from avoiding the above given foods, it is recommended to practice certain life style changes such as having smaller meals, and staying active for at least an hour after having food especially in the afternoon time and practice of regular exercise. However, it is recommended to practice exercises that do not promote reflux of stomach contents.

Rare occurrence of heartburn is not dangerous, but if the severity and frequency of heartburn increases it may result in certain side effects. Hence, it is recommended to take care of heartburn at the earliest possible without negligence. If you cannot obtain relief by practicing above measures, it is recommended to consult a physician immediately without negligence.

Jason Ladock

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