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Heartburn

July 7, 2008

Understanding Heartburns
As against its name, heartburns, also known as pyrosis, have nothing to do with any problem of the heart Instead, it is a kind of indigestion which gives a painful or a burning sensation in the esophagus due to the formation of gastric acid. Since the pain occurs below the breastbone, many people think that they have got a heart problem. However, without the consultation of the doctor, it becomes very difficult to differentiate between a heart attack and heartburn due to the pain which the latter produces around the heart area.

Causes
Heartburns are a result of indigestion and the foods which normally cause this problem are alcohol, tea, coffee, caffeinated beverages, citrus fruits and juices, spicy foods, red pepper, fatty foods and dry foods like peanuts. Heartburns can also occur as a result of pregnancy, smoking, obesity or because of wearing tight clothes around the waist like tight trousers or skirts. Though heartburn is a common health condition accompanied by burning sensation and belching, frequent attacks of heartburns can be a symptom of a serious health condition called GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease).

Prevention and Cure
The best way to prevent heartburn is by avoiding the intake of alcohol as it leads to an increase in the amount of acid in one’s body. In addition, one should avoid the intake of fatty, spicy or cold food items and should also avoid eating late at night. A change in diet and lifestyle is important to naturally cure the problem of heartburns. Instead of wheat and cereals, one can increase one’s intake of fruits because fruit fibers perform the same function as cereal fibers and are healthier for the body. Moreover, one should eat less of carbohydrates and should reduce the amount of salt in one’s food. People who frequently suffer from heartburns should avoid being without food for long period of time. Lastly, one should drink plenty of water as water has a healing power which can treat almost any disease.


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