Causes of Chronic Heartburn
What you eat does affect heartburn and how serious the condition can be. Certain beverages and foods help to relax the esophageal sphincter muscles and can increase chronic heartburn. For instance, beverages that contain caffeine, citrus juices and alcohol increase heartburn. Foods such as chocolate, tomatoes, fatty foods and fried foods also increase heartburn symptoms but what you eat will not be the only cause of this condition. Eating large meals increase your risk of having chronic heartburn which is why it is suggested you eat several small meals a day. You should also avoid skipping meals and eating within a few hours of going to bed.
Did you know that if you wear tight clothing that you are putting pressure on your stomach and pressing the contents of your stomach towards your esophagus? This is definitely contributing to your condition. If you smoke tobacco this is also making your heartburn worse so it is suggested that you either quit or cut way back. If you are overweight those extra pounds are also putting pressure on your stomach. Start up an exercise plan to lose those extra pounds and you will begin to feel a lot better in more ways than one. At night when you go to bed, try elevating your head to eliminate or reduce waking up during the night with heartburn.
