Can you help heartburn with food and lifestyle?
The odds are that you or someone you know experiences heartburn. Today I’ll share three easy ways to beat heartburn naturally, but first let’s cover the facts.
Around half of Australian and New Zealand adults experience it at least once per month.
Somewhere between 10-20% have it at least once per week!
Heartburn, also known as reflux, occurs when the strong acid in your stomach creeps up into your oesophagus.
It can feel like a burning sensation; hence the name “heartburn.”
Other common symptoms include bloating, burping, difficulty swallowing, or a sore throat.
Often there is a bitter or sour taste as well.
Now here’s something you may not know… stomach acid is actually a good thing!
Stomach acid is essential for good health and optimal digestion.
We need the acid in our stomach to protect us against harmful microbes (i.e. bacteria) that lurk in our food and drinks. Stomach acid also helps us break down our food, and digest nutrients. But we need that acid to stay in the stomach, and not get up to our oesophagus!
Stomach acid doesn’t usually burn the stomach itself; this is because the stomach is protected by a layer of mucus.
But your oesophagus doesn’t have that same protection. It has a valve that is supposed to prevent things from going the wrong way (i.e. keep food, drink, and acid down; not allow it back up). And when your oesophagus is exposed to stomach acid too often, it can cause the infamous burning, inflammation, and other potential issues.
I’m going to share a my top tips that may help you overcome your heartburn symptoms naturally.
Of course, if symptoms last for a long time, or get worse, it’s probably a good idea to see your doctor.
Also FYI…
PPI’s or Proton Pump Inhibitors such as Nexium are one of the most over prescribed drugs in Australia.
They are designed to be used only in the short term for 2-8 weeks but it’s not uncommon for people to be on them for months and even YEARS!
Long term use can put you at increased risk of serious kidney disease, bone fractures, nutrient deficiencies (namely B12, iron and magnesium) and dementia, so please talk to your doctor about whether this is still an appropriate medication for you.
Anyway…back on track!
Three Easy Ways To Beat Heartburn
Tip #1 – Foods to eat (and avoid)
You may notice that when you eat or drink certain things, you get heartburn soon afterward. These triggers may be different for everyone; but often include onions, garlic, chocolate, citrus, tomato, mint, spicy foods, greasy foods, coffee, carbonated drinks, or alcohol.
If any of these affect you, reduce them or even try cutting them out to see if it makes a difference.
Heartburn might also result from a sneaky food intolerance.
Using a Food Sensitivity Test can be a game changer in identifying exactly what you’re reacting to.
Now, you may be wondering: “If I eliminate these foods/drinks, then what can I put in their place?”
Try increasing fibre intake.
Yes, this means more whole, unprocessed foods, especially veggies!
In fact, the humble potato may be a great addition to meals if you suffer from heartburn.
Try getting at least five servings of veggies every day.
Tip #2 – How and when to eat
Eat slowly. Use meal times to release stress. Chew your food very well.
Don’t eat meals and portions that are too big.
Don’t eat too close to bedtime. You want to avoid lying down with a full stomach.
We’re talking finishing eating 2-3 hours before lying down, so schedule your dinner or snack with this in mind.
Tip #3 – Lifestyle techniques
Sometimes strenuous exercise can make heartburn symptoms worse. If this happens to you, then focus on low-intensity exercises like walking and cycling.
If symptoms come on as you’re lying down to sleep, try adding a pillow or two so your head is a bit higher than your stomach.
Another interesting tip is to try sleeping on your left side. Lying on your left side works because the valve that prevents the acid from “leaking” into your oesophagus is located on the right side of the stomach. So, when you’re lying on your left, the acid is away from that valve.
Conclusion
Heartburn is a very common condition where stomach acid creeps up into the oesophagus (where it’s not supposed to be).
If you suffer from symptoms of heartburn, there are many things you can do.
There are foods and drinks to avoid and veggies to increase.
You can eat slower, chew more thoroughly, and don’t lie down within 2-3 hours of eating.
Also, try low-intensity exercise and sleeping on your left side.
Try these simple, natural strategies. They can help prevent or relieve heartburn symptoms for you.
Twice Cooked Heartburn Friendly Baked Potato
Serves 4
1 small bag of new or baby potatoes
4 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Scrub potatoes and boil them until they’re soft. How long will depend on their size, so check them by feeling how easily they’re penetrated with a fork or knife.
Drain the water and toss the potatoes with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt & pepper.
Place in a roasting dish at 200C for about 15 minutes.
Serve & enjoy!
Tip: Don’t have baby potatoes? Use large potatoes or sweet potatoes and chop them to the size of baby potatoes.
