How to Prevent Acid Indigestion

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That tightness or burning feeling in your stomach or chest is due to excess acid; thankfully, there are some simple things you can do to prevent it.

Step 1: Eat slowly
Eat small meals and chew your food thoroughly. Numerous small meals are easier on your digestive system than one or two large meals.

Step 2: Stay upright after eating
Stay upright after eating to aid digestion. Don't lie down.

Step 3: Don't eat right before bed
Avoid eating right before bed. Food consumption less than two hours before sleep can lead to acid indigestion.

Step 4: Elevate the head of your bed
Raise the head of your bed 4 to 6 inches. The elevation makes it difficult for excess acid to rise up into the esophagus.

Step 5: Eat a balanced diet
Eat a balanced diet of whole grains and fibers, as well as fruits and vegetables. Healthy eating helps promote a healthy digestive system.

Tip
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.

Step 6: Quit smoking
If you smoke, stop now! Smoking weakens the lining of the stomach and causes excess acid.

Step 7: Avoid stress
Reduce stress and exercise regularly. Exercise helps regulate your appetite and improves your digestion, both of which will help prevent acid indigestion.

Did You Know?
Stomach acid is powerful enough to burn a hole through a piece of paper.