Information from Clemson UMC Parish Health Ministry

On this page CUMC Parish Health Ministry with an interest in Healthy Bodies, Healthy Spirits will offer tips on topics such as disease prevention, health promotion, and mental and spiritual wellness. The information will cover children, youth, adults and older adults. Check here often for new information and feel free to contact Sandy Smith at ssandra@clemson.edu if you have any suggestions or areas of interest.


Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning discomfort that is generally felt in the chest just behind the breastbone. The burning sensation results when harsh stomach juices come in contact with and irritate the delicate lining of the esophagus, the tube-like structure that connects the mouth to the stomach. Some lifestyle and dietary habits that can contribute to heartburn:

• Eating foods such as citrus fruits, chocolate, peppermint, spearmint, tomatoes or tomato-based products, raw onions, garlic, black pepper, vinegar and fatty or spicy foods

• Drinking beverages such as coffee, citrus juices, and caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic beverages

• Eating large portions

• Smoking

• Eating before bedtime

• Certain types of exercise/body positions

• Lying down, especially after eating

• Hectic lifestyle

• Bending over

Heartburn can be a very serious medical condition. Talk with your health care provider if you have questions or are concerned about heartburn.