Changes In Diet Extinguish Heartburn

Some relatively simple lifestyle and diet changes can prevent heartburn before it even starts.

"Heartburn refers to a sensation of warmth behind the breast bone and is caused by stomach contents that backflow, or reflux," says Dr. Gulchin Ergun, medical director of the Reflux Center at Baylor College of Medicine and The Methodist Hospital.

More than 15 million Americans suffer from heartburn, which is one of the common symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). While the symptoms can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter antacids, there are other ways to avoid the discomfort of heartburn. Dr. Ergun lists orange, grapefruit and pineapple juices, foods that contain large amounts of vinegar, aspirin, alcohol, caffeine, tomato products, and chocolate as potential "heart burners." She also recommends staying away from large or excessively fatty meals and not eating two to three hours before lying down.

If symptoms occur more than two to three times a week, are present for long periods of time, do not respond to treatment with over-the-counter medications, or include vomiting blood, excessive pain and swallowing difficulties, Dr. Ergun recommends consulting a physician for further evaluation.

- Baylor College of Medicine

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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