Don’t let heartburn ruin your holidays

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid moves into the oesophagus, which is much less resistant to acid.

Incessant heartburn, characterised by a burning sensation in the chest and throat, can make holiday festivities quite unpleasant, but there are ways to manage it.

According to Pharma Dynamics, a leading provider of heartburn medication, a quarter of adults suffer from heartburn at least once a month, which is likely to be exacerbated by the festive season.

Marli Botha, Over-the-Counter (OTC) Product Manager for Pharma Dynamics, says the party season can become a marathon of rich food and drink resulting in bloated tummies and indigestion.

“Big meals overload the digestive system, leading to heartburn and stomach trouble. Fatty, greasy, citrusy or tomato-based meals can also trigger indigestion. Sugary treats, chocolate, fizzy drinks and alcohol – all of which will be in abundance this time of the year –increase the amount of acid in our stomach.”

She explains that heartburn occurs when stomach acid moves into the oesophagus, which is much less resistant to acid.

This then leads to irritation and damage to the lining of the oesophagus, causing a physical burn.

“While the occasional heartburn can happen to anyone, chronic heartburn, which is classified as having symptoms at least twice a week, does require medical intervention,” she says.

Chronic heartburn is also termed as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Aside from the classic burning sensation in the chest, GERD may also cause a bitter taste in the mouth, coughing, flatulence, excessive belching, and wheezing.

If GERD isn’t managed, it could lead to other health issues, such as:

The best way to prevent and manage heartburn in the long run is by making changes to your diet and lifestyle, but this isn’t always possible over the festive period.

Some of the ways to escape heartburn while still enjoying the holiday celebration includes:

Botha says maintaining a healthy weight can also relieve heartburn.

Indigestion is a symptom that is directly linked to being overweight or obese.

Anything that increases stomach pressure increases heartburn. Even a modest amount of weight gain can cause acid reflux.

Food that is likely to stave off heartburn, include whole grains like oats and brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots and beet, green veggies like asparagus, broccoli and green beans.

Also incorporate food that are more alkaline, such as cauliflower, bananas, melon and nuts. Watery food, like watermelon, cucumber, celery and lettuce, also help to dilute the acid in the stomach.

If your heartburn troubles continue to bother you after the holiday season, it’s best to speak to your doctor or pharmacist about the right treatment option(s) for you.

Share your news tips via: Telephone: 013 656 2490 Email: info@witbanknews.co.za

Or follow us on WITBANK NEWS platforms: InstagramTwitter Witbank News App Facebook page Witbank News Breaking

Exit mobile version