Heartburn and acid reflux can affect anyone, not just older people. According to the NHS, searches for indigestion spike over major holidays like Christmas, with around 13,200 visits to its online heartburn advice page between Christmas Day and Boxing Day in 2022.
The Mayo Clinic notes that heartburn pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, often due to weaker stomach muscles or rich food. Occasional heartburn is not a cause for concern and can be relieved with simple remedies.
Common triggers include coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate, fatty or spicy foods, and peppermint. Lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding food before bed, and wearing looser clothing can help. Antacids, available in liquid or chewable tablet form, provide fast relief.
Recommended products include Gaviscon mint-flavoured tablets, which form a protective barrier lasting up to four hours; TUMS fruit-flavoured antacids, which offer almost instantaneous relief; and Rennie sugar-free chewies, suitable for diabetics, pregnant and breastfeeding people. Adults can take up to four Gaviscon tablets after meals or before bed, and no more than 10 Rennie tablets in 24 hours.
