Friday, December 31, 2010

Heartburn Friendly Recipes

If you thought you had to give up your favorite dishes because the ingredients triggered your heartburn, try the following heartburn recipes. Whether you are cooking for yourself or someone else who suffers from chronic heartburn, these recipes are many of your favorite dishes, and contain heartburn friendly ingredients.

Chicken Recipes
Chicken is a safe choice for most heartburn sufferers, but it can soon become a boring meal without some variety. The same goes for other main dishes. With these recipes, however, you will not only have variety, but you will also get the great taste of many of your old favorites!

Beef Recipes
You may have thought you couldn't eat beef if you suffered from heartburn. While you may need to select leaner cuts of meat and very lean ground beef, it is possible to enjoy those beef recipes without having to worry about heartburn.

Pork Recipes
Pork is often called "the other white meat" and is often as lean as chicken. Pork tenderloin is especially lean. The recipes here are heartburn-friendly, because fat is sometimes a heartburn trigger. Leaner meats and low-fat ingredients cut down on fat content.

Turkey Recipes
Turkey is a safe choice for most heartburn sufferers, because it is leaner than beef and ground turkey can often be substituted for ground beef in many recipes. With these turkey recipes, you will also get great tasting dishes that are more heartburn friendly because of the lower fat content.

Seafood / Fish Recipes
Most fish and seafood are great low-fat meal choices for those individuals whose heartburn is triggered by fatty foods. The recipes listed here will not only give you a various of healthy dishes, they'll give you great taste too.

Vegetarian Recipes
All these recipes are meatless, but still contain a lot of flavor, and are heartburn-friendly.

Rice Recipes
Rice is the staple food for two-thirds of the world's population. It is nutritious while being ideal for special diets. The following recipes are also heartburn friendly and can be enjoyed by heartburn sufferers.

Casserole and Stew Recipes
These recipes are tasty, filling, but won't cause the heartburn many other casserole and stew recipes that contains onions, tomatoes and spice may.

Pasta Recipes
Pasta is a staple most people have in their pantries, and it makes for a great addition to many meals. The following recipes are also heartburn friendly and can be enjoyed by heartburn sufferers.

Salads Recipes
Salads are a common part of many meals. Whether you like a chef salad or a more substantial salad that can be a meal in itself, or anything in between, the following recipes are tasty as well as being heartburn-friendly.

Side Dish Recipes
If you suffer from acid reflux, try these side dish recipes that will keep you heartburn-free. Side dishes can be creative, delicious, and quick to make too!

Dessert Recipes
We all like desserts. While chocolate may be a heartburn trigger for you, there are many other great desserts that can satisfy your sweet tooth and still be heartburn-friendly.

Breakfast Recipes
Breakfast is an important meal, and is necessary to start your day off right. The recipes below are not only fast and delicious, they are also heartburn friendly.

Kid-friendly Recipes
One of the leading triggers of heartburn is the food we eat. In addition, fatty foods can cause a lot of problems for those prone to suffering heartburn, so parents can do their kids' bodies a favor by finding low-fat options for school lunches


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Dining Out With Heartburn

Dining out at your favorite Chinese, Mexican, or Italian restaurants can mean be more difficult when you have less control over your meal options. Sometimes the food served at these restaurants can contain more ingredients that can trigger your heartburn. If you aren't sure what your trigger foods are, keeping a food record can be a good way to find out what foods trigger your heartburn. But knowing you should avoid and what is okay to eat before you dine out can mean an enjoyable meal that won't exacerbate your heartburn.

Remember, avoid foods that trigger your heartburn. It is important to avoid fried foods and spices. If you aren't sure what is in a dish or how the dish is prepared, don't be afraid to ask. Also, don't be afraid to request alterations or substitutions if any dish contains elements that can cause heartburn.

Here are some suggestions for dining out at one of the following specific types of restaurants:

What you shouldn't eat: Breaded and fried entrees Egg rolls Ribs Sauces thickened with eggs and butter Hot and sour soup. Crispy deep-fried noodles Overly spicy dishes Sweet and sour dishesWhat is better to eat: Entrees such as beef with broccoli, velvet chicken or shrimp with mushrooms and bamboo shoots Wonton soup Steamed dumplings Brown rice Dishes made with vegetables in a light sauce Stir-fried or steamed dishes with light wine or lobster sauces Sauces thickened with broth and corn starch Fortune cookies for dessert

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What you shouldn't eat: Chimichangas Chorizo (Mexican sausage) Fried tortilla chips Deep fried tortilla chips and taco shells Cheese and sour cream toppings Refried beans Chile peppers Salsa, tomato, and onions Mole (chocolate) sauce Flan, or other rich desserts Sangria and margaritasWhat is better to eat: Grilled chicken or fish Low-fat refried beans and rice Fajitas Burritos Tortillas Mild Guacamole on a flour tortilla Broth-based soups Dishes prepared with herbs such as cumin and cilantro

****

What you shouldn't eat: Heavy tomato or cream sauces Pizza toppings such as double cheese, lots of sauce, sausage and pepperoni, hot peppers Oil-based salad dressings Antipastos with cheese, salami, and spicy peppers Anything carbonara (cream, cheese, and bacon) Anything parmigiana (fried, smothered in tomato sauce and mozzarella) Any foods prepared with lots of garlic and spices Rich, heavy desserts, such as cheesecake or tiramisuWhat is better to eat: Dishes with little or no cheese Veal or chicken in a light mushroom sauce Grilled meat, poultry, or fish. Pasta "en brodo," which is a light broth-type sauce Minestrone (vegetable) or pasta fagioli (macaroni and bean) soups Vegetable side dishes without garlic or too much olive oil Pasta primavera without sauce Risotto or polenta dishes made with vegetables, not butter and cheese Pasta in broth-based sauce Vegetables with no garlic Pizza with little sauce and cheese Biscotti - crunchy Italian cookies - for dessert

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Thursday, December 30, 2010

What Are Heartburn Symptoms?

Answer: Heartburn (reflux) is a symptom of another digestive disorder, and not a disorder by itself. For example, heartburn is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Many people have different heartburn triggers, but most people have similar heartburn symptoms, such as:

A burning sensation in the chest
This burning sensation usually starts behind the breastbone (the sternum), and may travel up to the throat. It usually occurs shortly after eating, and can last from a few minutes to several hours.

A burning feeling in the throat
This burning sensation can result from irritation when stomach contents reflux up into the throat.

Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
This sour or bitter taste can occur when stomach contents reflux up into the esophagus and may reach the back of the throat. When the contents enter the back of the throat, a person will often have a sour or bitter taste in their mouth.

Chronic coughing
If stomach acid refluxes (back up) into the esophagus and is inhaled, it can cause coughing.

Wheezing or other asthma-like symptoms
Several studies suggest a significant link between GERD and asthma. The results of these studies show that up to 60% of people with asthma also have GERD, compared with 10% of the general population. GERD can affect asthma when stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus and is aspirated into the airways and lungs, and can make breathing difficult and cause the patient to wheeze and cough.

Sources: "Heartburn and GERD FAQ." American College of Gastroenterology. 19 May 2009

"Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 07–0882 May 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 19 May 2009

"Is it just a little HEARTBURN or something more serious?." American College of Gastroenterology. 19 May 2009


View the original article here

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Heartburn & Stress

More than half of people who suffer frequent heartburn say a hectic lifestyle and work-related stress increases their heartburn. While stress hasn't been linked directly to heartburn, it is known that it can lead to behaviors that can trigger heartburn. During stressful times, routines are disrupted and people may not follow their normal routines in regards to meals, exercise and medication. It is important to find ways to alleviate the stress, and thus make stress-related heartburn less likely.

Regular exercise
This not only helps to lower stress and increase your natural "feel-good" chemicals, known as endorphins, but also helps with digestion.

Sleep seven to eight hours a night
This is critical to keeping our stress level low. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived people have higher stress levels.

Eat balanced meals
By consuming plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and fresh fish, you'll provide your brain and body with the necessary nutrients to help you perform under pressure. It is also important to avoid the foods that are your heartburn triggers.

Limit consumption of alcohol, caffeine, tobacco and sugar
Studies have shown that these substances cause the stress response to become heightened. Alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco are also heartburn triggers.

Visualization
Take a quick "mental break." Envision a favorite place in your mind; anyplace that makes you relax just thinking about it. This can be imagining a walk by the ocean, a drive through the mountains, or being on a hillside watching the sun set. Concentrating seeing, hearing, and smelling the things you imagine will help you relax.

For more on stress relief, go to About.com's Guide to Stress.

You may also want to consider the following articles:


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Is There a Cure for Heartburn?

If you do a search on the Internet, you will be able to find many websites that will tell you they have a cure for heartburn.

When talking about a disease or other health condition, people most often think of a cure as the putting a permanent end to that disease or condition and making a person healthy again. With that in mind, can anything cure heartburn?

Answer: For some individuals, making some lifestyle modifications and changing their diet can improve their symptoms of heartburn. Others will be able to find relief by taking prescribed medications, such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). There are also those individuals who use a home remedy for heartburn in their treatment plan.

However, while their heartburn may appear to be cured, this elimination of heartburn lasts only as long as the treatment plan is followed. Once an individual returns to habits or diets that led to heartburn before, or stop taking their medications or other remedies, the heartburn returns.


In some situations, a physician may suggest surgery to treat severe heartburn. This surgery, called fundoplication, is not ideal for all patients who suffer from chronic heartburn or GERD. Fundoplication surgery can be very effective in the treatment of severe heartburn, but it doesn't have a 100 percent success rate. For some patients, the surgery doesn't completely eliminate their heartburn, and they will need to continue taking medication. There are other patients who are heartburn-free for a period of time after surgery, only to begin to suffer from heartburn symptoms again months or years later.


Despite advertisements to the contrary, no immediate cure, with the ability to get off all medications and never suffer from heartburn again, has been shown to work in the typical person with heartburn.


Before investing in any of these proposed treatments, you should investigate them thoroughly. You can learn more about false health product claims from About's Guide to Patient Empowerment. You should also discuss any new treatment with your doctor.


Related Resources:

Sources:


"Heartburn Or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)" American College of Gastroenterology


"Information You Can Stomach - Heartburn and GERD FAQ." The American College of Gastroenterology


View the original article here

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Preventing Nighttime Heartburn

Nearly eight in ten heartburn sufferers experience symptoms at night. If you suffer from nighttime heartburn, you may not realize that what you do during the day and how you sleep at night can have a big impact on whether or not you suffer from nighttime heartburn.

Here are several tips to help you feel better and get a good night's rest that is free of heartburn:

Lying flat allows stomach contents to press against the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES). Also, having the head higher than the stomach allows gravity to keep stomach contents where they belong.zSB(3,3)Studies have shown that this position aids digestion and helps with the removal of stomach acid. Sleeping on the right side has been shown to worsen heartburn. Lying down with a full stomach can cause stomach contents to press harder against the LES, increasing the chances of refluxed food. Clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen, such as tight belts and waistbands, will squeeze the stomach, forcing food up against the LES, and cause food to reflux into the esophagus. Chewing gum can provide short-term heartburn relief by stimulating the production of saliva, which dilutes and flushes out stomach acid. More importantly, saliva can actually neutralize stomach acid. Some people enjoy a before-bed cigarette. Nicotine, however, can weaken the LES. Smoking also stimulates the production of stomach acid. Alcohol increases the production of stomach acid and relaxes the LES. If you are overweight, pressure of excess weight can increase the chance stomach acid will back up in to your esophagus.zSB(1,2)Antacids will work very quickly on heartburn you may be experiencing before you go to bed. If you are taking an antacid more than once or twice a week, you should see your doctor about another treatment plan.

Stress may lead to an increase in stomach acid production. It is also known to lead to behaviors that can trigger heartburn, such as overeating.


Sources:
"Nighttime Heartburn" The American Gastroenterological Association. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia28 May 2008.


American Journal of Gastroenterology, "Updated Guidelines for the diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease." The American College of Gastroenterology. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia28 May 2008.

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Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Can Chewing Gum Ease Heartburn

Answer:
Chewing gum is known to stimulate the production of saliva. But how will this help with heartburn?

Previous studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum after meals can help prevent cavities by lowering acid and sugar levels in the mouth. In an effort to see if chewing gum could also help with acid reflux, researchers at Britain's Kings College in London tested their theories on 21 volunteers in 2005. Over the span of two days, the volunteers ate two high-fat meals, one each day. After one of the meals the volunteers would chew gum for 30 minutes after the meal, and after the other meal they didn't chew any gum. For two hours after each meal researchers measured the levels of acid in each volunteer's esophagus. The researchers then compared the results from the time after meals when gum was chewed, and from the time after those meals when gum was not chewed. The results of that study showed that chewing gum after a meal reduced acidity levels in the esophagus.

Chewing gum or sucking on a lozenge for 30 minutes after meals increases the production of saliva. And because saliva is alkaline, it can help neutralize the acid. Saliva can also relieve heartburn by bathing the esophagus and lessening the effects of acid refluxed into the esophagus by washing it back down to the stomach.

While the results of various studies support chewing gum to reduce the effects of acid reflux, it is important to remember that it may not work for everyone. In particular, chewing gum or sucking hard candy may lead to swallowing excess air. Swallowing air, in turn, can result in bloating and an increase in flatulence. It is important, therefore, to discontinue chewing gum or sucking hard candy if swallowing air becomes a problem for you.

Carol Ann Rinzler, Ken DeVault, MD. Heartburn & Reflux for Dummies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2004.

Anil Minocha, M.D., Christine Adamec. How to Stop Heartburn: Simple Ways to Heal Heartburn and Acid Reflux. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2001.

"Digestive Health Tips: 10 Tips on Belching, Bloating, and Flatulence." American College of Gastroenterology. 15 May 2008


View the original article here

Monday, December 20, 2010

10 Heartburn Myths

Myth #1: "I cause my heartburn."
There are many lifestyle habits and certain foods and beverages that can worsen your heartburn symptoms. However, heartburn is a medical condition with biological causes. Even with changes in lifestyle and eating habits, the condition is still there, and you may still experience heartburn. This fact makes itself known the first time you try eating that spicy food again.

Myth #2: "Heartburn can be cured with a bland diet."
A bland diet isn't bad for heartburn sufferers. In fact, it may make them feel better. But the bland diet alone will not cure heartburn caused by Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

Myth #3: "Heartburn is only caused by excess acid."
The amount of acid in the stomach of a GERD sufferer is usually normal. The problem comes from the fact that the acid is in the wrong location. Instead of staying in the stomach, it moves into the esophagus. So why do physicians give you medication to reduce stomach acid when excess acid isn't the problem? This is because there is a lack of drugs that effectively treat the underlying factors that cause the acid reflux.

Myth #4: "Acid reflux only causes problems in my esophagus."
While heartburn caused by acid reflux into the esophagus is the most well-known symptom of GERD, it isn't the only effect on the body. Another important conditions that may be caused by, or worsened by, acid reflux is asthma. Recent studies indicate that not only can GERD cause or exacerbate asthma, but that asthma and asthma medications may in return cause or aggravate GERD. Individuals may also experience hoarseness caused by irritation from acid reflux into the throat or around the vocal cords, or a chronic cough and sore throats.

Myth #5: "Heartburn is caused by stress."
While stress can worsen heartburn, it is rare for it to be the cause of heartburn. But extreme physical stress, such as that experienced by individuals gravely ill or severely injured, can cause ulcers to develop that's accompanied by heartburn.

Myth #6: "Nothing can be done to help my heartburn."
You can help your heartburn. Treatment can include prescription medication, over the counter remedies, lifestyle and diet changes. For further information, you can read Preventing Heartburn and Safe Foods and Foods to Avoid. You can also keep a Heartburn Record to find out what might be triggering your heartburn.

Myth #7: "I feel worse when I eat certain foods because they are acidic."
Some acidic foods, such as orange juice, do cause problems for GERD sufferers, but it isn't because of the acid content. Even nonacidic orange juice causes problems for them. Since some foods do cause heartburn for GERD sufferers, so it's important to keep a food log or diary to find out what foods trigger your heartburn.

Myth #8: "Nighttime heartburn sufferers must sleep sitting up."
A study conducted by the Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia found that sleeping on you left side is the best way to avoid nighttime heartburn. Sleeping on your right side may increase your heartburn symptoms because the acid takes longer to clear out of your esophagus when you lay on your right side. While sleeping on your back can allow acid to slip back into your esophagus more often, sleeping with your head elevated, such as on a wedge pillow, will allow gravity to keep the acid in your stomach.

Myth #9: "If I take a medication to suppress stomach acid, I won't be able to digest my food."
While our bodies produce acid to help digest food, other substances in the stomach also help to break down the food. These are called enzymes. And even if you take a medication, such as proton pump inhibitors, that works to significantly reduce the production of acid, enough acid is still produced to aid in normal food digestion.

Myth #10: "Heartburn isn't a serious condition."
While heartburn is common, with nearly 60 million American adults suffering from heartburn at least once a month, it is certainly not something to be taken lightly. Chronic heartburn can have a serious impact on an individual's life. It can be a symptom of a more serious condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Also, if chronic heartburn isn't treated, it can lead to serious complications, including Barrett's esophagus , erosive esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and even esophageal cancer.


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The Heartburn-Friendly Kitchen: One Hour of Delicious How-To Recipes for Treating the Heat of Acid Reflux

Hosted by Dr. Shekhar Challa, author of Spurn the Burn, Treat the Heat: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Acid Reflux Disease, this hour-long DVD features heartburn-friendly recipes and cooking how-tos from Elaine Magee, the Recipe Doctor, and advice on what to stock in your pantry if you have heartburn or acid reflux disease.


Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Risk Factors for Heartburn

A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition. The same is true with heartburn. Some of the risk factors for heartburn may be beyond our control, such as another medical condition. Other factors, such as certain lifestyle habits, can be modified to help reduce the occurrence of heartburn symptoms.

What increases your risk of suffering from heartburn?

Being overweight (obesity)
While researchers are still studying exactly how obesity increases the risk of heartburn, they do state that it is biologically possible. Excess body fat pushes on the stomach, increasing gastric pressure. Also noted in obese patients are decreased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and impaired gastric emptying. Each of these can contribute to an increase in heartburn occurrence.

Being pregnant
You can experience heartburn duing pregnancy because of increased levels of hormones in your body while pregnant can soften the ligaments that normally keep the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tightly closed. If the LES relaxes at inappropriate times, food and stomach acids can reflux back up into your esophagus and throat. Also more pressure is put on your stomach as your body changes and your baby grows. This, in turn, can force stomach contents through the LES and into your esophagus.

Smoking
Smoking stimulates the production of stomach acid. It can also weaken and relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Smoking has also been shown to slow the production of saliva. Saliva is one of your body's defenses against damage to the esophagus. Saliva even has acid-neutralizing chemicals called bicarbonates. Research shows that the saliva of smokers contains smaller amounts of bicarbonates, thus reducing the ability of the saliva to neutralize the acid. Saliva also bathes the esophagus and lessens the effects of acid that has refluxed up from the stomach, and helps wash the acid down to the stomach.

Drinking alcohol
Alcohol increases the production of stomach acid, and relaxes the LES. Alcohol also makes the esophagus more sensitive to stomach acid. Alcohol can lead to the development of peptic ulcers and interfere with the healing of ulcers already present.

Eating certain foods
Some foods can increase the odds of having heartburn. These include: Fried foods Fatty foods Citrus fruits (such as oranges) Tomatoes and tomato-based products (such as tomato sauce, tomato paste, many spaghetti sauces) Coffee Alcoholic beverages Citrus fruit drinks (such as orange and grapefruit) Chocolate Peppermint Pepper

Having a hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia can weaken the (LES) and cause reflux. It can also result in the retention of acid and other stomach contents above the opening in the diaphragm, where the esophagus connects with the stomach (hiatus), and can result in this being easily refluxed into the esophagus.

Having a peptic ulcer
A peptic ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. These ulcers can cause a gnawing or burning pain in the abdomen between the breastbone and navel. There can also be acid reflux, the sensation of acid backing up into the throat.

Having gastroparesis
Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. It often occurs in people with type I diabetes or type II diabetes. Gastroparesis happens when nerves to the stomach are damaged or stop working. The vagus nerve controls the movement of food through the digestive tract. If the vagus nerve is damaged, the muscles of the stomach and intestines do not work normally, and the movement of food is slowed or stopped. This delayed stomach emptying can increase gastric pressure, which can lead to heartburn.

Sources:

"Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 07–0882 May 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health. 26 Jun 2007.

Oliveria SA, Christos PJ, Talley NJ, Dannenberg AJ, "Heartburn risk factors, knowledge, and prevention strategies: a population-based survey of individuals with heartburn" 1999 Jul 26;159(14):1592-8. National Center for Biotechnology Information - U.S. National Library of Medicine. 26 Jun 2007.

Howard Hampel, MD, PhD; Neena S. Abraham, MD, MSc(Epi); and Hashem B. El-Serag, MD, MPH, "Obesity and the Risk for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Its Complications." 2 August 2005 | Volume 143 Issue 3 | Pages 199-211. Annals of Internal Medicine - The American College of Physicians. 26 Jun 2007.


View the original article here

Friday, December 17, 2010

Why Heartburn Happens

Heartburn is that burning sensation in the middle of your chest you can get after a meal. It's a common condition affecting more than 40 percent of all Americans (approximately 108 million people) at least once a month.

Not everyone, however, suffers from heartburn, even when they eat spicy foods. For millions of people, however, heartburn can be a sign of a chronic condition.

Anyone can have occasional heartburn, such as after eating a spicy meal. You can manage this type of heartburn by following these prevention tips for occasional heartburn. Frequent and recurring heartburn, however, may be a symptom of a more serious condition: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD.

GERD is a disease in which acid from the stomach flows back (or "refluxes") into the esophagus, which can cause irritation and damage to the lining of the esophagus. Some degree of acid reflux is normal, and typically occurs after meals. Episodes are usually brief, and cause no symptoms. Frequent symptoms, such as heartburn and regurgitation, are an indication that potential injury to tissues has occurred from longer and more frequent acid exposure than normal. In general, damage occurs because of the following reasons: stomach contents are refluxed too frequently, the contents of the stomach are too acidic, or the contents cannot be cleared from the esophagus fast enough. For more information, please read about GERD causes, diagnosing GERD, GERD treatment, and complications of GERD.

Heartburn can occur for a number of reasons. These include what you eat, some medications you may take, lifestyle habits you have. Being aware of what the triggers can be will help you with controlling the heartburn. There are certain foods that can worsen heartburn symptoms. Some foods can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach contents to flow up into the esophagus, while other foods will increase the production of stomach acid. The foods that most often trigger heartburn are fried, fatty, or spicy foods. There a other foods heartburn sufferers should avoid, along with foods that are safe for most heartburn sufferers. It isn't just food that can cause heartburn. Sometimes it's the medications we take to treat other conditions that can be the culprit. Some medications can cause heartburn by relaxing the LES, allowing stomach contents to reflux back up into the esophagus. Some of these include some of the medications used for the treatment of asthma, chronic pain, antidepressants, and heart-related conditions. You can read this list of medications that can trigger heartburn. The chances of heartburn occurring can increase because of our lifestyle habits -- what we do and how we do it. Heartburn symptoms can often be relieved if sufferers make a few lifestyle changes. These include when we eat, when and how we sleep, and what daily activities should be avoided. For a list of lifestyle changes for heartburn prevention, please read this article. There are several medical conditions, including GERD, where heartburn can be a symptom. These include:

Sources:
"Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 07–0882 May 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 8 Aug 2007

"Is it just a little HEARTBURN or something more serious?." American College of Gastroenterology. 8 Aug 2007

"Heartburn and GERD FAQ." American College of Gastroenterology. 8 Aug 2007


View the original article here

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Home Remedies

If you're one of the millions of people who suffer from heartburn, be it occasionally (once a month) or chronically (2 to 3 times a week), you may be eager to seek out natural remedies for heartburn. Available drug treatment options, such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), can indeed help. But try-at-home natural remedies for heartburn may also have an appeal -- especially if you have been on your medication for some time.
First, it's important to note that you should see a doctor to be evaluated if you are experiencing frequent heartburn. Frequent heartburn can be a symptom of something more serious, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Once you receive a diagnosis, you can discuss your treatment options with your doctor; you should never begin or stop any treatment without consulting a physician.

Effective treatment of GERD is important because, if it is not treated properly, GERD may result in serious problems, such esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus.

Your doctor will most likely suggest that you try one or more lifestyle modifications to treat your heartburn before considering any medications. When talking about your treatment, you can also discuss the use of various home remedies for your heartburn treatment.

The alternative remedies listed below, such as apple cider vinegar and chamomile tea, have been used as home remedies for heartburn. However, it's important to note that there haven't been any clinical trials to support their affects on heartburn in most cases.
Keep a heartburn diary to track which foods cause heartburn. The foods and beverages that most commonly trigger heartburn include: Citrus fruits Citrus juices Chocolate Peppermint Excessive alcohol consumption (especially red wine) Tomatoes and tomato-based products Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee Carbonated beverages, such as colas You can also use a few meal planning tips for preventing food-related heartburn. Large meals expand the stomach and can increase upward pressure against the esophageal sphincter.
Gravity helps keep the stomach juices from backing up into the esophagus and assists the flow of food and digestive juices from the stomach to the intestines -- why you may feel better standing up right after eating than laying down. Laying down flat presses the stomach's contents against the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the connection between the esophagus and stomach. With the head higher than the stomach, gravity helps reduce this pressure. You can elevate your head a few inches in a couple of ways. You can place bricks, blocks or anything that's sturdy securely under the legs of your bed at the head. You can also use an extra pillow, or a wedge-shaped pillow, to elevate your head. Read more on preventing nighttime heartburn. Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter. Smoking also stimulates the production of stomach acid. While stress hasn't been linked directly to heartburn, it is known that it can lead to behaviors that can trigger heartburn.
Follow these relaxation tips to alleviate stress, and thus make stress-related heartburn less likely. Baking soda is a natural antacid. If you dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water, it can neutralize acid and temporarily alleviate heartburn caused by acid reflux. There are some drawbacks, however, to this. When you add baking soda to water, it releases carbon dioxide. That's what causes the fizz. This fizz can open the LES to enable you to burp, and help relieve the pressure from bloating. Unfortunately, though, opening the LES can also allow stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is another remedy used for heartburn. It is available in chewable tablets or capsules you can break open and dissolve in water. You should not use DGL if you have been diagnosed with hypertension and/or are receiving treatment for hypertension. Bananas act as a natural antacid in the body. You can eat either fresh or dried bananas.
 Chamomile has been used to help neutralize stomach acid. It is also used by people as a stress reliever. People have reported that natural apple cider vinegar works for them. Apple cider vinegar can be taken in tablet, capsule, or liquid form. Fresh ginger is one of the oldest remedies for heartburn. It is also used to help treat nausea. Ginger can be added to food when it's cooked, eaten raw, or consumed as ginger tea. Turmeric helps stimulate digestion and prevent acid build-up. Turmeric is used in curried foods. If you don't want to use turmeric in your cooking, it is available in capsule form and can be taken before meals. The juice from the aloe vera plant has been used to soothe an irritated esophagus. Aloe vera juice has a long history of use in Europe as a natural home remedy to relive heartburn. You should only use aloe vera juice that has been specifically prepared for internal use.
Again, it is important to remember that none of these remedies have been carefully studies or compared with standard medications for acid suppression. Discuss the use of any you are interested in with your healthcare provider.

Sources:
Carol Ann Rinzler, Ken DeVault, MD. Heartburn & Reflux for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2004. ISBN: 0-7645-5688-6
Magee, Elaine: Tell Me What to Eat If I Have Acid Reflux. Book-mart Press: New Page Books, 2001, ISBN: 1564145743.
Rogers, M.D., Sherry A.. No More Heartburn: Stop the Pain in 30 Days -- Naturally. Kensington Publishing Corp., 2000.
Sklar, Jill and Cohen, Annabel:Eating or Acid Reflux:Marlowe & Company; Imprint of Avalon Publishing Group, Inc. 2003, ISBN: 1569244928.
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Tuesday, December 14, 2010

No More Heartburn: Stop the Pain in 30 Days--Naturally! : The Safe, Effective Way to Prevent and Heal Chronic Gastrointestinal Disorders

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The Heartburn-Safe Diet

Does it seem like no matter what you eat, heartburn keeps occurring? Anyone suffering from heartburn needs have a special acid reflux diet. You need to know what foods are safe, and avoid the foods that can trigger your heartburn. You need to know how to prepare your foods to avoid heartburn-triggering ingredients. To get you started, check out the resources below. Charts to show you what you can eat and what you shouldn't. Heartburn-free recipes. There are also links to menus with heartburn-friendly foods.

Safe Foods For Heartburn Sufferers
The foods listed in this table are the most common foods that are usually pretty safe for heartburn sufferers to eat.

Foods Okay In Moderation
The foods listed in this table are foods that you may be able to enjoy occasionally, in moderation.

Foods To Avoid
The foods listed in this table are the most common foods that can produce heartburn.

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Recipes For Heartburn Sufferers
These recipes that will help heartburn-sufferers prepare food that will aide in good digestion. It isn't just the foods you select that help you with the heartburn. It is also important how the foods are prepared. Categories of recipes include:

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Weekly Menus - Index
These charts are arranged Sunday through Saturday. You can try them all in the order given, rearrange them, or choose the ones that appeal to your palate. These are suggestions only, and not the only foods you may be able to eat. You can add or subtract foods according to your preferences and what may or may not be your heartburn triggers.

Daily Menus - Index
This index gives sample menus featuring heartburn-friendly foods and recipes. Each daily menu for this acid reflux diet includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections, along with 2 snacks. Each dinner menu gives an Entree with a link to the recipe for its preparation.

Breakfast Menus - Index
These links give sample breakfast menus featuring heartburn-friendly foods for the acid reflux diet.

Lunch Menus - Index
These links give sample lunch menus featuring heartburn-friendly foods for the acid reflux diet.

Dinner Menus - Index
Each dinner menu gives an Entree with a link to the recipe for its preparation, along with suggestions for side dishes.


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Sunday, December 12, 2010

Tips for Nighttime Heartburn

Nearly eight in 10 heartburn sufferers experience symptoms at night. But staying up all night to fend off heartburn isn't practical. Here are several tips to help you feel better and get a good night's rest -- free of heartburn. Eat 6 smaller meals each day instead of 3 larger ones. This will help keep the stomach from becoming too full, and help prevent excessive production of stomach acid. If one of your meals ends up being larger than the others, aim to eat that meal for lunch instead of supper. Don't eat too quickly. One way to help you slow down while eating is to put your fork or spoon down between bites. Avoid bending over soon after eating. Bending at the waist increases pressure on the stomach, and can increase heartburn symptoms. Avoid late-night snacking. Eating shortly before going to bed can increase your chances of experiencing heartburn because of increased stomach acid levels.

 Wait at least two to three hours after eating to go to bed. Lying down with a full stomach can cause stomach contents to press harder against the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), increasing the chances of refluxed food. Limit the amount of citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, that you eat. Avoid spicy foods, and cut back on chili and pepper. Spicy foods are known to cause heartburn symptoms in many GERD patients. Limit acidic foods, such as tomatoes and oranges, as well as choices that are based on these foods (such as ketchup, spaghetti sauces, etc.) Stick with lean meats. Fattier meats are heartburn triggers for many people. Limit fried foods, especially if they are greasy. Greasy foods, such as French fries, can trigger heartburn. Limit the amount of chocolate you eat. No matter how good it tastes, chocolate is a heartburn trigger for many GERD sufferers.

 Avoid alcohol. Alcohol increases the production of stomach acid, and relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Avoid caffeinated drinks, such as colas and coffee. Caffeine relaxes the LES, increasing the risk of acid reflux. Drink warm liquids. Drinking a glass of lukewarm water or herbal tea after a meal can dilute and flush out stomach acid. Drink plenty of water, which helps with digestion. Do not drink too much water at one time, however. This just increases the stomach contents and can actually worsen heartburn symptoms. It is better to drink smaller amounts throughout the day rather than large amounts less often. Sleep with your head and shoulders elevated. Lying flat allows stomach contents to press against the LES. Also, having the head higher than the stomach allows gravity to keep stomach contents where they belong. Sleep on your left side. Studies have shown that this position aids digestion and helps with the removal of stomach acid. Sleeping on the right side has been shown to worsen heartburn. Make sure your bed clothes are loose-fitting. Clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen -- such as tight belts and waistbands -- will squeeze the stomach, forcing food up against the LES. This can cause food to reflux into the esophagus. Stop smoking. Nicotine can weaken the LES. Smoking also stimulates the production of stomach acid. Take an antacid when heartburn hits. Antacids will work very quickly on heartburn you may be experiencing before you go to bed. If you are taking an antacid more than once or twice a week, you should see your doctor about another treatment plan. Lose weight.

 If you are overweight, the pressure of excess weight can increase the chance that stomach acid will back up into your esophagus. Relax! Stress may lead to an increase in stomach acid production. It is also known to lead to behaviors that can trigger heartburn, such as overeating. Get regular exercise, which can help with digestion. Just make sure to wait at least two hours after a meal before breaking a sweat. Exercising on a too-full stomach can trigger heartburn. Check your medications. Some medications can worsen heartburn symptoms, so talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Sources:


American Journal of Gastroenterology, "Updated Guidelines for the diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease." The American College of Gastroenterology. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia21 May 2007.


"Nighttime Heartburn" The American Gastroenterological Association. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia21 May 2007.


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Saturday, December 11, 2010

What Causes Heartburn?

There are several causes of heartburn. Finding out what these are, and how they cause heartburn, can help you prevent it.


 Heartburn Triggers
Heartburn can be caused by a number of factors. These include certain foods, and others are factors such as being overweight or lifestyle habits, such as smoking.


Mechanisms of Acid Reflux
There are three disturbances in the normal gastrointestinal (GI) function that can lead to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).


Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - What is it?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus.


 Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants
Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) occurs often in normal infants. One of the most common symptoms is spitting up. More than half of all babies experience reflux in the first 3 months of life. Only a small number of infants have severe symptoms due to GER. Learn the sypmtoms and how is it diagnosed.


Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children and Adolescents
Almost all children have a little bit of reflux, without being aware of it. For some children and adolescents, however, this reflux may be chronic. Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) often begins in infancy and then subsides, but for a small number of infants, GER continue as they grow older. Learn the symptoms and how it's diagnosed.


Peptic Ulcers
A peptic ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. Ulcers in the stomach are called gastric or stomach ulcers, and those in the duodenum are called duodenal ulcers, and both are usually referred to as peptic ulcers. Understanding the causes and symptoms of peptic ulcers, and then getting a diagnosis and proper treatment, most people can find relief.


 Hiatal Hernia
Some people suffer from Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because they have a hiatal hernia. What is a hiatal hernia?


 Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Several things can cause gastritis, one of which is chronic bile reflux. Although it doesn't cause heartburn, some of the symptoms are similar to those produced by heartburn, and it's treated in a similar way to GERD, by taking medication to reduce stomach acid.


Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. It often occurs in people with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes. This can lead to more pressure against the lower esophageal sphincter, forcing it to relax prematurely, which can then lead to more reflux.


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Thursday, December 9, 2010

What Remedy is Best for You?

Is the confusion over what heartburn remedy is the best bad enough to give you heartburn? If so, you're not alone.

There are several over-the-counter remedies for heartburn on the market, but not nearly enough information to go along with them to help you make a wise choice. While the makers of the different heartburn remedies produce plenty of ads for their products, those ads don't tell consumers what product is best for them.

While searching for a remedy for your heartburn, you should keep the following in mind: There are three different types of remedies. Two prevent heartburn, and one treats heartburn once you have it.

The first type of remedy that's designed to prevent heartburn from occurring is the H2 blocker. This includes over-the-counter products such as Axid, Pepcid AC, and Zantac 75. You need to take these before the heartburn occurs, such as before a meal you are sure will cause heartburn.

The second type of remedy that's designed to prevent heartburn from occurring is the proton pump inhibitor. This includes products such as Prilosec, Prevacid, and Nexium. Prilosec is available over-the-counter as Prilosec OTC. Proton pump inhibitors are the most effective in preventing heartburn. They prevent the release of acid in the stomach and intestines.

An antacid is used to treat heartburn after it's begun. Tums and Mylanta, are examples of antacids. Pepcid Complete is both an antacid and an H2 blocker. It may be a good option if you have heartburn that keeps coming back after an antacid wears off, or if your heartburn lasts a long time. Occasional mild heartburn can often be relieved by making lifestyle changes and, when necessary, taking antacids or acid reducers. However, if your heartburn persists or becomes worse, you should contact your doctor. Knowing when to call your doctor is very important.

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Updated: 02/14/2006


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Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux. Doctor Recommended. Patented Folding Wedge Pillow for GERD, Sleep Apnea, Snoring. 32" L, 24" W, 7" H

"Your pillow is truly a remarkable product. I have recommended it to family, friends and patients." - T.Hold, M.D.
We all know that heartburn can turn a good night's sleep into a nightmare. If you suffer from acid reflux, sleep apnea, snoring or any other digestive or breathing problems, the Medslant Wedge Pillow can be the natural solution you're looking for.
The 32" long pillow supports and elevates your upper body, using gravity to keep acid down and your airways open, plus it won't put extra pressure on your stomach like those short wedges do, "folding" your body and making problems worse.

The hypoallergenic foam wedge has a washable, removable zippered cover. The package also includes an extra pillow case that folds into the included eco-friendly travel case. Just fold the pillow, zip it into the case and it's ready for under the bed or overhead on an airplane.
Use whatever kind of personal pillow you like with this wedge and sleep on your side or you back, it's big enough!
"I slept more soundly and my reflux cough progressively diminished. I will recommend it to any of my patients." - Paul Jelliner, M.D.
"After using the terrific MedSlant pillow, neither of us get acid reflux or even take medicine any more. I recommend Medslant to everyone I know." - Steve O'Brien, Travel Show Live.

"Since using MedSlant I've been able to stop taking 2 PPI pills a day. MedSlant really does work!" - Mary, AL

And talking of acid reflux pills which the FDA warned can increase risk of fractures, the only side effect from the Medslant Pillow is a good nights sleep!

Doctors, authors and people just like you have not only reduced their heartburn, but actually solved their acid reflux problems without the need for drugs. Maybe a Medslant is what you need to solve your acid reflux.

Note: as pillows are personal health products, to protect you from transmittable diseases they are not returnable.
Price:

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