If you experience heartburn or burning chest pain, then you may be experiencing symptoms of acid reflux. If it happens more than twice a week, then you may have acid reflux disease, or GERD. Symptoms include that burning feeling, regurgitation, bloating, hiccups, nausea, unexplained weight loss and burping. See the doctor if you have symptoms, and in the meantime, there are some ways to alleviate the discomfort. Common risk factors for GERD include obesity, eating certain foods and drinking certain beverages, pregnancy, certain medications, and eating large meals.

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Avoiding carbonated and caffeinated drinks can help, and spicy foods are notorious for creating lots of acid. Other foods to avoid are fatty foods, tomatoes and tomato-based sauces and soups, mint, citrus, garlic and onions. Smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day and eating meals two to three hours before lying down can help. Refrain from wearing tight clothes or belts, and try sleeping in a more upright position. Heartburn-friendly drinks include non-caffeinated and non-citrus juices. Water can help keep acid down when drunk post-meal, and chewing non-mint gum can do the same.
Recent studies point to the efficacy of high-fiber diets in the treatment of acid reflux. Try whole grains, nuts, vegetables and fruit. And if you need to lose weight, then get moving and eat less to remedy the reflux. Smoking also exacerbates symptoms, so quitting can help.{relatedarticles}Drinking alcohol and smoking around mealtimes can increase symptoms and weaken the muscle in the esophagus that shuts off acid. When in doubt, always discuss the condition with your doctor - acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions.