Causes of Heartburn
Causes of Heartburn
It has been said that more than 40% of the population of the United States experiences symptoms of acid reflux at least once a month. Additionally, more than 20% of the population gets heartburn at least once a week. Why is this condition so prevalent in our society and what are the main causes of heartburn?
Our Digestive System
Our digestive system has one primary role; to process food. As it does so, it allows our body to breakdown crucial nutrients and fluids that we need to survive. A major component of our digestive system involves the production of stomach acid. It is this acid that allows food to be digested at all. Without it, nothing could be absorbed into the blood stream.
A fully functioning digestive system helps to ensure that one part of the body does not negatively impact another part. When you suffer from an acid reflux condition, however, a breakdown of the natural digestion process occurs, leaving your esophagus vulnerable to potential damage.
At the junction of your stomach and esophagus, our bodies have certain muscle tissue, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This valve controls what is allowed in and out of the stomach by way of the esophagus. Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter is a tightly controlled set of tissue. Under certain conditions it relaxes inappropriately, allowing the acidic juices from your stomach to enter your esophagus.
Triggers of Acid Reflux
While it is true that heartburn is primarily a physiological condition, caused by the lower esophageal sphincter working ineffectively, there are numerous things that can trigger heartburn episodes.
Certain foods have been shown to relax the LES at inappropriate times. Common offenders include chocolate, alcohol, mint, spices and caffeinated beverages. Additionally, foods that are high in fat can be considered one of the leading causes of heartburn. A GERD diet may be just the thing you need!
Other foods that have been known to irritate the esophagus include citrus juices, coffee and tomatoes. If you experience heartburn after consuming any of these items it is important for you to take note. You may be able to reduce your symptoms naturally.
With so many Americans experiencing heartburn at least weekly, it is important to determine the causes of heartburn. Until you know what is most likely to trigger an attack, you will always be susceptible.