Overindulging can lead to heartburn

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. holiday parties usually mean lots of food and fun, but unfamiliar foods and alcohol can also lead to heartburn.

That burning sensation rising from the stomach to the chest and neck and an acid or bitter taste in the mouth can usually be controlled for most people by changing a few behaviors or taking a chewable antacid.

"Heartburn during this time of year is frequently caused by stress associated with the holidays combined with the typical indulgences at parties," said Jean Barry, of GlaxoSmithKline consumer healthcare.

To help control holiday heartburn: stick to small meals; eat slowly; avoid large, fatty meals and spicy or acidic foods; limit alcohol consumption; note previous reactions to certain foods and avoid those that create heartburn symptoms; drink a glass of water when heartburn occurs to help dilute and remove refluxed acid from the lower esophagus; and avoid lying down or stooping soon after meals.