One in five Dutch people experiences heartburn weekly. Here's what you can do to find relief.
Ingrid Kuiper, MD (General Practitioner): Heartburn typically causes a burning sensation behind the breastbone that may rise into the throat. It's triggered by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus when the separating muscle doesn't close properly. A hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, can also contribute by allowing acid to irritate the esophageal lining.
Prolonged reflux can lead to esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus, raising the risk of esophageal cancer—especially with factors like alcohol, smoking, and obesity.
Symptoms often worsen with abdominal pressure, such as lifting, bending, or straining, as well as after eating or lying down. Effective treatments include antacids (like Rennie), H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors, which are generally safe for long-term use with minimal side effects.
If symptoms persist despite medication, a gastroscopy—using a flexible tube to examine the esophagus and stomach—can pinpoint the cause.
Lifestyle changes help too: Avoid gas-producing foods (e.g., cabbage, fizzy drinks), excess coffee, alcohol, orange juice, peppermint, chocolate, and fatty meals. Skip tight clothing, late-night eating, and elevate your bed's head. Quitting smoking is highly beneficial.
Gonneke Kloet, Naturopathic Therapist: Excessive stomach acid production can also cause heartburn, often with bloating, upper abdominal pain, and even hoarseness.
Start with a balanced diet: Opt for smaller, low-fat portions and skip irritants like strong herbs and spices. Limit protein-rich foods that boost acid. Eat fruit on an empty stomach or 15 minutes before meals to prevent fermentation. Drink plenty of water to support digestion, but avoid it during meals to preserve stomach acid balance.
Additional advice: Steer clear of stomach-irritating painkillers, bend at the knees instead of the waist, quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly to aid digestion, and manage stress—which ramps up acid production—through relaxation techniques.
