Six dos and dont's of heartburn relief

If you're prone to heartburn, or even if you've got a tough stomach—here are some tips to help stave off tummy troubles.

• Don't eat spicy, acidic, or fatty foods or drink too much alcohol or lots of caffeinated or carbonated drinks. Limit chocolate, garlic, onions, and peppermint.
• Do sleep on your left side to avoid putting extra pressure on the stomach. Also, keep your head elevated 4 to 6 inches if you suffer from nighttime acid reflux.
• Don't snack right before bedtime. Stop eating and drinking 3 hours before you lie down.
• Do try to get more fiber in your diet. In addition to improving your overall health, there is some evidence that getting more fiber may reduce heartburn symptoms.
• Don't smoke. Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter and increases acid production.
• Do watch your weight. Being even slightly overweight puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, causing reflux. Losing just a few pounds can help.

Read more on how to sooth your stomach (free), find out if you're at risk for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (free), and check out our Treatment Ratings for heartburn and GERD (subscribers only).