Do you experience a burning sensation after eating? Do you complain frequently of heartburn and always carry antacids for fear of an attack? If these symptoms occur more than twice a week, you may have a common problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD for short.

GERD is a condition that affects the digestive tract and causes acid from the stomach to leak into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. If stomach acid leaks into this area too frequently, the esophagus becomes damaged.

If you are experiencing frequent heartburn, these tips may help you get some relief.

Foods to avoid:

• spicy foods
• chocolate
• peppermint
• fried, fatty foods
• citrus fruits and juices
• tomato products
• drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or carbonation

Other things you can do:

• Eat several small meals instead of large meals.
• Avoid overeating.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid exercise immediately after eating.
• Do not lie down for at least 2 to 3 hours after meals.
• If you are overweight, lose weight.
• If you smoke, stop smoking.

It’s important not to mistake the symptoms of occasional heartburn for GERD. But if you experience ongoing discomfort from heartburn over an extended period of time, you may want to contact you family doctor for more information.