Thanksgiving heartburn

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and it’s off to grandma’s house we go. A family gathering with lots of catching up to do. And of course that wonderful meal with all the traditional dishes and probably a few that are special family favorites. Afterwards there are those who do the walk-it-off and those who want a nap.

For those who reach for the antacids, here are a few thoughts that might be helpful. If heartburn is a familiar visitor, you probably have a plan for relief. For the rest there are several ways to improve the situation.

For mild forms of acid reflux you can get by with antacids like Tums. There are stronger forms of antacids like Mylanta II, Maalox II and Riopan, if necessary. The liquid forms of antacid are more preferred by a greater number of people than the tablet variety. Whatever type of antacid that you take, they need to accompany meals and before going to bed.

Healthy living is getting a big liftoff these days. With a few clicks you will be able to find a list of bad foods. Of course it’s easy to guess - the ones you like the most. Some folks keep a diary as a way of to find finding out exactly which foods they should stay away from. Record keeping could show that it’s not necessary to give up all your favorites. Heartburn is not is not something to ignore. Anytime your are in pain, it is because your body is trying to get your attention.

Here are a few general guidelines: Lessening coffee, alcohol, and tobacco products. Elimination of these entirely is even better. Smaller meals eaten at regular intervals. Meals that include too much citric acids, or fatty, and fried foods, cheeses, milks, and tomatoes are also best avoided. Do not recline or go to sleep on a full stomach.

If you have heartburn, and you have attacks more than twice a week - this could be the beginning of something more serious. The first thing a doctor will tell you when you show up in pain is to examine your lifestyle and dietary habits, the solution could be right there, on the table.