What Causes Heartburn?
Heartburn happens when the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) becomes weak and stomach acid is forced up the esophagus thus causing burning sensation.
There are several causes of heartburn. The food you eat is the most common factor. Drinking coffee, tea, soda and other drinks that contain caffeine will weaken the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) and cause the stomach acid to reflux.
Spicy, fatty and greasy foods are slower to digest because they strain the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
Eating spaghetti can also trigger heartburn. Tomatoes, tomato juices and sauces calm the LES (lower esophageal sphincter). You can still eat pasta dishes, just make sure it doesn’t have the red sauce.
Some fruits with citrus juices like orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit loosen the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
Drinking milk and eating dairy products slows down the digestion process and incites acid production.
Beverages with alcohol content also relax the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) and increase production of acid in the stomach. You might want to get rid of the stock beer and liquor in your fridge to avoid temptation.
Control yourself from eating chocolate, it relaxes the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
Food may be the biggest contributor in causing heartburn but there are other factors such as cigarette or cigar smoking. The chemicals in the cigarette smoke weaken the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
Eating within 2 to 3 hours before bed time can also cause heartburn. When you are lying down with a full stomach, the stomach contents are pushed to the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
It is recommended that you wear comfortable loose clothing because tight clothes constricts the stomach and causes acid reflux.
Doing sit-ups, crunches and other strenuous exercises strain the stomach and the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).
If you are suffering from other illnesses, ask your doctor if the medicines you are taking can trigger heartburn.
Learn more about Heartburn. Stop by Andrew Benford’s site where you can find out all about Heartburn Safe Foods.
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