What to Eat for Heartburn

When the hydrochloric acid secreted by your stomach regurgitates up into the gullet, you feel a burning sensation called Reflux Esophagitis, more commonly known as heartburn. Although it has nothing to do with the functions of the heart, the name originated from its similarities with heart attack pain. (see References1, page 38) According to The Doctor's Guide to Gastrointestinal Health, around 25 million people suffer from heartburn on a daily basis. (see References 3, page 50) If untreated, heartburn will only worsen and can lead to other, more serious problems, such as acid reflux disease.

Symptoms

With heartburn, you may experience a burning sensation below your breastbone that moves upward after a heavy meal, particularly if you're lying down. (see References 2, page 18) You may also feel heartburn when you're standing straight up; this means your stomach is contracting the acid up into the gullet, despite the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscle mechanism or valve between the stomach and the esophagus in order to keep acid from flowing upwards. (see References 3, page 38)

Helpful Foods

An excellent food for heartburn relief is a banana, as the potassium is a natural antacid. A natural, raw banana or dried banana slices will do the trick. (see Reference 3, page 14) A tried-and-true favorite is ginger; ginger root or ginger tea are both effective in stopping heartburn, as well as generally settling your stomach. Other good foods for heartburn relief are pineapple, kiwi, oatmeal and papaya. (see References 3, page 50 ) A glass of water with saltines can also help with heartburn, as well as apple cider vinegar. If you're in pain and want to soothe your sweet tooth as well, try honey or brown sugar.

Causes

If you're obese or even mildly overweight, you have a greater chance of experiencing heartburn. A hiatal hernia, which is a malformation in your gullet that pushes some of the stomach into the chest and causes your stomach to pouch out, can be a cause of heartburn. (see References 2, page 19) Wearing clothes that fit tightly around your stomach and chest can also set off heartburn. (see References 1, page 39)

Some foods stimulate more production of stomach acid than is necessary. Remove spicy foods from your diet, as they directly irritate the already inflamed part of the esophagus as they head down to your stomach. Stay away from alcohol, coffee, citrus fruit juice, tomato juice and chocolate. Fatty foods, milk and strong mints (such as peppermint or spearmint) can also trigger heartburn. (see References 1, pages 38-39)

Preventing Heartburn

Drinking a full glass of water after a heavy meal can soothe the lining of your esophagus and help flush everything down. Eat smaller meals to keep from distending your stomach. Losing weight can only help, as it will release the extra pressure on your abdomen. (see Reference 1, page 40) Elevating your head while you sleep at least four inches is recommended. (see References 2, page 19)