The Causes of Heartburn and the Steps to Take to Prevent It

Heartburn is the burning sensation felt in the chest which can spread up into the throat and may result in a sour or acidic taste in the mouth. This is due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter, more commonly referred to as LES. The LES is part of the esophagus which connects to the stomach. Food and liquid pass thru the LES into the stomach. When the LES is relaxed or becomes weakened, stomach acid moves back up into the esophagus.

The most common causes of occasional heartburn are:

* Caffeinated beverages - coffee, tea, soft drinks
* Chocolate
* Tomatoes and tomato products
* Citrus fruits and juices
* Alcohol
* Fatty and fried foods
* Smoking
* Being over weight
* Wearing tight fitting clothing i.e.- belt, elastic waistband
* Lifting and straining
* Eating 2-3 hours before lying down or going to bed
* Pregnancy
* A hectic and stressful lifestyle

It is important to note that frequent heartburn may be an indication of a more serious condition and one should consult with their primary care physician. Other health conditions that have heartburn symptoms are: gastritis, hiatal hernia, and gastroparesis.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD is a more serious condition and occurs when the LES does not close properly and allows the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. The esophagus can become damaged if exposed to the stomach acid for long periods of time.

One of the key principles in naturopathic and holistic medicine is that the cure to an illness or disease is often the same as the preventive. By avoiding the causes of heartburn will prevent heartburn, and by avoiding those causes will cure heartburn.

By simply noticing when heartburn occurs; during the middle of the night, after eating a heavy meal or consuming a caffeinated beverage or citrus juice, after a stressful event, lifting or straining to move an object, heartburn can be avoided. Diet and lifestyle changes are the beginning of most if not all paths to healing and a healthier and more vibrant life.

There are natural remedies and alternative techniques that can alleviate the pain of heartburn. Recipes for remedies can be made using ingredients found in the kitchen. All of this information and more can be found here!