Heartburn produces a burning or painful feeling in the upper chest and stomach. The reaction stems from acid reflux, or stomach acid backup, usually after consuming foods or beverages. Sometimes you may experience a sour or bitter taste from acidic contents in the back of your mouth. People respond differently to foods and may have specific triggers of heartburn. Whole milk sometimes results in heartburn because of its fat content. Skim milk may avoid the problem.
Heartburn Triggers
A weakened muscle in the esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, can lead to heartburn. The muscle normally opens and contracts as food and drinks enter the stomach. A relaxed muscle doesn't contract tightly and subsequently allows stomach acid backup, causing heartburn. Certain foods relax the muscle to trigger heartburn. The foods may include fatty foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, tomatoes, caffeine and carbonated drinks. Large meals also lead to heartburn by delaying stomach emptying to increase acid production and the risk of acid reflux.
Acid Reflux Diet
Acid reflux diets to reduce or prevent heartburn usually include low-fat foods, non-citrus fruits, vegetables and whole grains to aid digestion. Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology recommends low-fat or fat-free dairy products instead of whole-milk items. Drinking milk may be fine to avoid heartburn, as long as you use skim milk or possibly low-fat milk. Although protein foods, such as milk, meat and poultry, contain saturated fat, low-fat versions can play a role in combating heartburn. Protein, which builds muscle tissue, may help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
Milk at Night
Some people who suffer from heartburn in the middle of the night drink milk to avoid attacks during sleep. However, milk may have a rebound effect, HealthCastle.com reports. Milk has a soothing effect on the stomach and throat to provide temporary relief, but as you lie down it encourages secretion of additional stomach acid. This can promote heartburn in the middle of the night. It's better to avoid consuming food or beverages late at night. Do not lie down or sleep at least two to three hours after a meal.
Skim Milk Remedy
Another folk remedy includes sipping a small amount of skim milk when you experience heartburn. Skim milk may have an antacid effect to neutralize stomach acid if antacid medication isn't available. You need to drink skim milk, which contains no fat. Drink it in a small amount. Too much may cause it to splash up and worsen the problem. After drinking the liquid, sit up for at least 30 minutes.
References
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Heartburn -- Prevention; June 23, 2009
- HealthCastle.com: Acid Reflux Diet; Gloria Tsang, R.D.
- FamilyEducation: Treating Indigestion, Heartburn and Ulcers
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