Keeping Healthy
Dietary Advice
Diet is one of the most crucial triggers for heartburn (acid reflux) and indigestion. Not just in terms of the types of food and drink we ingest, but also the amounts and the way in which we take it in.
So what can you do?
- Keep an eye on your weight - if you are overweight your digestive tract is under greater pressure.
- Eat regularly - but keep portions to a reasonable size. The larger and fattier your meals, the more acid your stomach needs to produce.
- Chew food thoroughly - and take your time eating.
- Don't eat on the run.
- Sit upright when eating and loosen tight clothing or belts.
- Don't chew gum - your stomach is tricked into believing food is on its way, so starts producing acid.
- Watch your diet - certain foods and drinks are known to trigger excess acid production or can irritate the digestive tract. These include caffeine (tea, coffee, cola), fizzy drinks, onions, peppers, tomatoes, spearmint/peppermint, fatty/greasy foods, seasonings, citrus fruits/juices, chocolate, spicy foods and vinegar.
Did you know? An adult stomach can hold approximately 1.5 litres (2 ½ pints) of material.
Reference: Sciencepages.co.uk


