LESSEN HEARTBURN

 If you suffer from occasional heartburn you might want to try these diet fixes:

• Barbara Wendland, RD, author of Chronic Heartburn: Managing Acid Reflux and GERD Through Understanding, Diet and Lifestyle, says that keeping portions in check is a simple way for most people to lessen or avoid acid reflux.  She says that eating too much can overfill your stomach and cause discomfort, as can eating too close to bedtime. Did you know it is harder for your body to digest food when you are lying down?
• Lawrence Taw, MD, a UCLA clinical professor, has said that some herbs can lessen heartburn and suggests drinking a cup of chamomile, ginger or licorice tea with your meal.  He went on to say that cold foods and drinks can make the muscles tighten and cause backup that leads to reflux. He suggests that those having a problem with reflux or heartburn avoid things like ice water and frozen yogurt.
• David C. Metz, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital suggests that GERD smokers should quit smoking and those who are overweight should lose weight.  He says that over-the-counter antacids to neutralize stomach acid can help but if symptoms continue for a couple of weeks, you should see your doctor.
• The professionals say fatty foods such as fried foods, full-fat cheeses, and veggies in lots of oil should be avoided in those who have heartburn. High fat foods are digested more slowly causing the stomach to produce more acid which is the culprit.
• The following acidic culprits should be avoided while suffering with heartburn: chocolate, peppermint, coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages, tomato sauces, and citrus fruits and juices.