WHAT'S CAUSING YOUR HEARTBURN?

Beat uncomfortable symptoms and embarrassing burps with our expert advice

- ALI HORSFALL

Already looking forward to a summer of boozy barbecues, al fresco evening meals and grazing picnics? The last thing you want is acid reflux ruining the fun – yet it’s extremely common with 25% of us regularly suffering from heartburn*. ‘It happens when the muscle at the entrance to the stomach relaxes, causing stomach acid to move upwards in the wrong direction, burning the oesophagus,’ says Dr Stuart Sanders, GP at The London General Practice.

The good news is there are ways to relieve the nasty burning sensation and belching caused by heartburn. Try these easy treatment tips.

If you… SUFFER AFTER EATING

Is your favourite meal often followed by feeling uncomfortable? Foods that are high in fat, such as fried or greasy food, or sugar, coffee and alcoholic drinks, are common causes of heartburn and stimulate excess acid production, says Dr Sanders. Antacids, such as Rennie, are the most common remedy for post-indulgence heartburn and contain aluminium or magnesium to help neutralise stomach acids. Or try Silicogel, which can help stop reflux by coating the stomach with a protective layer (£10.95, Boots).

DO

Slow down meal times, says nutritionist Lily Souter. ‘Eating quickly is not good for your digestion, making heartburn symptoms more likely. Take your time to enjoy your food by chewing each bite at least 20 times.’ Also sit up straight when eating and avoid constricting your tummy with tight clothing. ‘The stomach expands after a large meal, putting pressure on the valve between your stomach and oesophagus.’

CHEW GUM