Fight the burn this winter season

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(NC)—Many Canadians look forward to the winter season, but for some it is a time when heartburn is most prevalent. Whether it's overindulging in comfort foods, lack of exercise, or additional stress, heartburn is often triggered by a number of different factors this time of year.

The following are tips that all heartburn suffers should keep in mind:

• Eat smaller dinners... and eat earlier: Decrease the size of portions at mealtimes and eat meals at least two to three hours before lying down.

• Shed some pounds: Extra pounds can increase heartburn incidence. Some heartburn sufferers find their symptoms improve by losing weight through a healthy weight-loss plan.

• Take medication: Fortunately, there are antacids or acid controllers, such as Pepcid, that can reduce the frequency of acid indigestion and heartburn or stop an episode altogether. More information and tips can be found online at www.pepcid.ca.

• Limit certain foods and beverages: Avoid foods and beverages that trigger heartburn symptoms such as chocolate, alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits and carbonated beverages.

• Stop or decrease smoking: Cigarette smoking inhibits saliva, one of the body's natural protective barriers against damage to the esophagus. Smoking also may stimulate acid production and weaken the important the important valve that prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus.

• Loosen up: Reduce abdominal pressure by not wearing tight belts or binding clothing.

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