Heartburn: Causes, Triggers, and Natural Relief Options

When you feel that burning sensation behind your breastbone, you're experiencing heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Also known as acid reflux, it’s not just discomfort—it’s a sign your digestive system is out of balance. Many people think it’s caused by spicy food alone, but the truth is more complex. Heartburn happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that keeps acid in your stomach, relaxes at the wrong time. That lets acid creep up, irritate your esophagus, and leave you feeling like you swallowed fire.

Common triggers aren’t always obvious. Chocolate, coffee, citrus, onions, and even mint can relax that sphincter. Overeating, lying down after meals, or wearing tight clothes around your waist make it worse. Stress doesn’t cause it directly, but it slows digestion and makes your stomach produce more acid. People with GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic form of acid reflux often need more than just antacids—they need lifestyle changes. And while antacids, over-the-counter meds that neutralize stomach acid give quick relief, they don’t fix the root problem. If you’re using them more than twice a week, it’s time to look deeper.

The posts below cover real-world ways people manage this daily issue. You’ll find guides on foods that spark or calm heartburn, how weight impacts acid reflux, and what medications like Prilosec actually do—and how to buy them safely online. Some articles connect heartburn to other conditions like diabetes and dehydration, showing how your whole body is linked. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, practical info from people who’ve been there.

Stomach Ulcer vs Heartburn: How They're Linked and What It Means

Learn how stomach ulcers and heartburn are connected, their shared causes, how to tell them apart, and effective treatment and lifestyle tips.