Are you a sufferer of Constant Heartburn and Acid Reflux Disease?  If so, you know the painful symptoms that come with these conditions.   

Why is it so painful?  Heartburn is a burning sensation in the esophagus that generally happens after eating or at night.  It is the regurgitation of acid from the stomach rising up into the esophagus. 

It is the most common reflux disease and can often be eliminated by making simple lifestyle changes. 

Here are some suggestions to get you started: 

1)  Diet Adjustments 

Eliminate or greatly reducing consumption of certain food items that trigger these symptoms.  Foods such as:  coffee and caffeinated beverages; carbonated beverages; citrus fruits and juices; chocolate; fatty foods; tomato based products and mint products.   

While it may be very difficult to give up some of your favorite foods such as chocolate or coffee; simply by reducing the amounts or having them less regularly will make a difference.  Also avoid having these products in the evening. 

2)  Meal Adjustments: 

In addition to reducing or eliminating specific food products you should try to reduce the portion size of your meals by having several smaller meals throughout the day.  Also eat at a slower pace will help. 

Be sure to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before lying down to allow the food to begin the digestion process and be removed from the stomach.  If this is not possible try raising the head of the bed 4-6 inches. 

3)  General Health Adjustments: 

Tobacco products and Alcohol can trigger symptoms and should be reduced as much as possible or eliminated. 

Being overweight can contribute to heartburn due to the excess pounds around your abdomen.  This weight puts pressure on the stomach which cases acid in the stomach to back up into your esophagus.  Often just a 10 pound loss can help reduce symptoms.   

Be sure to check with your doctor when undertaking any lifestyle changes, especially a new exercise program.

Generally speaking, a healthier lifestyle will make a big difference in how you feel.  By reducing weight, exercising, eating smaller meals and avoiding products that trigger your symptoms, you will see a reduction in your heartburn symptoms.  Keep in mind that there are other gastro esophageal reflux diseases which unlike occasional heartburn can be more serious and should be evaluated by your doctor.