Heartburn Quiz 11/26/11

During the week of November 14 – 18, 2011, which foods did Dr. Oz recommend avoiding to reduce the occurrence of heartburn?

A. Chocolate

B. Alcohol

C. Mints

D. Cinnamon

Answer: A. Chocolate, B. Alcohol, C. Mints

A. Chocolate - 77%

B. Alcohol - 44%

C. Mints - 33%

D. Cinnamon – 11%

On the 11/17/11 episode of The Dr. Oz Show, Dr. Oz discussed the secret reasons for heartburn. This week's quiz had three correct answers. To reduce heartburn and the risk of a hiatal hernia – where the stomach extends up and into the esophagus – Dr. Oz recommended to avoid chocolate, alcohol and mints. Cinnamon has not been implicated in increased heartburn however for some people, spices can be upsetting to the stomach.

Chocolate, alcohol and mints cause the valve between the stomach and esophagus to weaken which allows for material and acid from the stomach to enter the esophagus where it can cause damage.

In addition to chocolate, alcohol and mints, the use of antacids was discouraged and more chewing was encouraged.

Antacids were only recommended for short-term use as they simply cover symptoms and do not contribute to a solution.

Dr. Oz recommends to chew each bite three extra times and to drink a sip of water after swallowing. Water will help to lubricate the food through the digestive tract.

What else can you do to reduce the incidence of heartburn? Balance acidic foods with alkaline foods. Acidic foods tend to be in the category of meat and grains. Fruit juice is acidic as well due to the high volume. Fruit tends to be alkaline however the amount of juice in a serving of fruit juice is way more juice than what people could realistically from eating in a day. Vegetables are the alkalizing powerhouses of the food world.

When planning your meal be sure to include a large portion of vegetables and fruit to balance out the acidity of meats and grains.