Hidden Causes of Heartburn

Foods that are fatty, greasy, spicy and acidic — we all know that all of these things can cause heartburn. But did you know that there are many others that can also leave your chest seem like it is burning or, in some instances, make you feel like you are having a heart attack?

Continue reading if you are prone to experiencing heartburn — below you will come across some hidden causes of it, many of which will surely surprise you.

Got family members and friends who constantly complain about heartburn despite of their best efforts to dodge it? Then make sure that you repost this article afterwards so that they may also be able to avoid the following:

Cigarette Smoking

We all know that smoking can considerably increase your risk of suffering from lung cancer and heart disease. It’s also something that can wreak havoc on your breath and smile.

But did you know that such nasty habit can also cause heartburn to strike? That’s because toxins found in cigarette smoke can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that separates the stomach from the esophagus to weaken.

Fish Oil

Perhaps you have heard or read about the many scientifically-proven health perks that fish oil can offer, and that’s why you are taking it in capsule form every single day.

Unfortunately, a fish oil capsule literally contains oil — just like what’s earlier mentioned, one of the risk factors for heartburn is the intake of foods that are oily. Take fish oil with meals in order to reduce heartburn risk.

NSAIDs

Short for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs are commonly taken each time there’s something achy. Sadly, these pills that can make pain go away can in fact leave you in a great deal of pain in the form of heartburn.

Just like when taking fish oil capsules, it’s a good idea for you to take NSAIDs with meals. Better yet, report the problem to your doctor to see if there’s something else that you may take that won’t leave your chest aching.

Chewing Gum

If you’re fond of checking out online listings of home remedies for heartburn, then it’s very much likely for you to be aware of the fact that chewing gum can help deal with heartburn as increased saliva production helps dilute excess acid.

Not too many people know that chewing gum that’s mint flavored can do more harm than good — peppermint commonly added to chewing gum as flavoring can actually cause heartburn to strike.

Being Obese or Overweight

We all know that there are many complications associated with having lots of excess pounds, and they range from high blood sugar to heart disease. Did you know that being obese or overweight can also cause heartburn?

Experts say that such can be blamed on the presence of too much fat tissue in the abdominal area. In some instances, it’s just that obese or overweight individuals have poor eating habits, and they cannot say no to heartburn triggers.

Tight Garments

It’s very much likely for you to end up with heartburn if you are fond of sporting tight garments — pressure applied on your midsection squashes your stomach, thus causing acid to escape and wreak havoc on the esophagus.

So if you are prone to encountering heartburn, it is a good idea for you to steer clear of tight tees and pants. Definitely, putting a tight belt around your waistline is a complete no-no.

Too Much Stress

Are you leading a stressful life? Then don’t be surprised why it seems like you have heartburn constantly. Experts say stress can increase your sensitivity to pain, and that’s why a little stomach acid is enough to cause discomfort.

What’s more, having a very hectic schedule can cause you to miss meals — if there’s nothing for your stomach to digest, heartburn may strike. Also, stress can also keep you from being mindful of what you eat.

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