Heartburn is sour, substernal burning pain often occurring after large meals, particularly when lying down. It is caused by gastric reflux of acid back into the lower esophagus, causing inflammation and pain.
DIET IN REFLUX
Meals containing large amounts of fat slow stomach emptying and can aggravate heartburn. Large meals distend the stomach and may trigger symptoms, so multiple small meals throughout the day are often beneficial. In certain individuals spicy foods may precipitate symptoms. If heartburn occurs at night, sleeping slightly propped up on pillows can reduce symptoms. Obesity aggravates heartburn by increasing intrabdominal pressure, which my cause gastric reflux.
FOODS THAT MOST OFTEN CAUSE HEARTBURN
- Alcohol
- Citrus fruits and pineapple
- Tomatoes
- Coffee, Black tea
- Chocolate
- spicy foods(peppers, onion)
- Fatty meals
- Peppermints and spearmint
Cigarette smoking and certain drugs, including oral contraceptives and antihistamines, can worsen heartburn.
