How to Control Heart Burn

Contributor

By Christopher R
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (0 Ratings)

Heartburn is an irritating condition which afflicts many individuals. Controlling the occurrence and severity of heartburn can be handled rather easily, however. By making conscious lifestyle changes, you can manage heartburn and avoid its unpleasantness.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Managing Heartburn

Step 1

Eat moderately. Overeating is one of the most common causes of heartburn. Limit your portions and avoid foods that have caused your heartburn in the past.
Step 2

Avoid lying down or sleeping within three hours of eating. Often, heartburn is triggered when you lie horizontally, allowing stomach acid to pass into the esophagus.
Step 3

Quit smoking. If you are a frequent smoker, slowly try to ease yourself away from your habit. Smoking is known to cause heartburn.
Step 4

Lose weight. If you are overweight, losing weight can help control the frequency of heartburn. Eat foods that are high in protein and in low in fat. Regularly exercise and control your portions.
Step 5

Avoid substances that can worsen heartburn: coffee, alcohol, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, chocolate, mint, onions, fatty and spicy foods and aspirin.