Heartburn is a burning sensation and pain in the stomach and chest that occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter or LES weakens and fails to close during digestion. Heartburn is also known as acid reflux.

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.

Eating spicy, fatty, fried and greasy foods put pressure to the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) because they slow down the digestion process and stays in the stomach longer.

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).

Milk and dairy products take more time to digest and stays longer in the stomach which stimulates acid production.

It is not advisable to keep any booze in your fridge. Alcoholic beverages heighten acidity in the stomach and relax the LES (lower esophageal sphincter).  Read more...

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