The discomfort and embarrassment of indigestion, or painful heartburn, can really throw a wrench into our plans.
Heartburn, also called gastric reflux, is a common gastro-intestinal symptom with a number of dietary triggers. This burning sensation in the chest area (close to the heart) is the result of stomach acid backing up into your esophagus.
There are a number of food triggers that can make heartburn worse. These include coffee and other caffeinated beverages, alcohol, citrus fruits, tomato products, fatty foods and spicy foods. Identifying and removing trigger foods from your diet can immediately reduce this symptom.
Instead of relying on antacids everytime you feel heartburn coming on, why not try some natural solutions? For example:
• Try adding more fiber to your diet, which keeps your digestive tract moving and prevents back up.
• Consider eating five or six smaller meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals, This reduces the chance of overloading your digestive tract.
• Try to stay upright for at least two to three hours after your meal to let the food move down through your system. This also means you should avoid eating right before bed to allow your body time to start digesting before lying down.
• Take your time with meals and chew food thoroughly.
• It is the health of the bacteria in your gut that heavily influences your own digestive health. Keep the good bacteria happy and thriving by eating a balanced diet consisting of fiber-rich whole foods.
