I just found out that most of my family members over the age of 50 have to deal with GERD - gastroesophageal reflux disease - and they all find it very uncomfortable and not much to be done about it aside from avoiding trigger foods. GERD mainly arises from putting too many of the wrong things in your mouth, so making smart choices now is the best prevention plan.

The sphincter between your esophagus and your stomach is supposed to regulate the flow of food. When it is in top-notch working condition, it lets food into the stomach but not back up. Unless you had a bad burrito or partied too hard last night. However, caffeine, alcohol, fried and fatty foods, tobacco, chocolate (so, you know, basically whatever vice you have, your sphincter gets off on it too) cause the sphincter to relax. Over time, this effect builds up and the sphincter becomes permanently weakened. Then every time you have a trigger food or drink, you will experience stomach acid and bile flowing back up into your esophagus. Eating a large meal and eating just before bed also place pressure on the sphincter and cause it to weaken. I should also mention that citrus and tomato products are known to cause heartburn, but since they have nutritional benefits, I would revert to the moderation rule.

[Ok, I can't find any good pictures that aren't copyrighted, but if you google 'esophageal sphincter' you will see a lot more than you thought you wanted!]

Most often, heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and abdomen, will be the primary symptom. If you have difficulty swallowing, a lump in the throat, coughing, a dry mouth, or the taste of acid in your mouth, it would be a good idea to see a doctor. Because.....

GERD doesn't just cause discomfort. Acid has a bad reputation for a reason: it burns the s#$t out of things. Cool in science class. Not so cool when it's your esophagus. If you are constantly experiencing heartburn, the stomach acid is burning and damaging your esophagus, making it uncomfortable to swallow and either thinning the wall, or in some cases, burning a whole right through it. You will be in pain. You may bleed. You may begin to develop cancer (not as common. But your doctor will recommend regular endoscopy exams, and it probably won't be a ballgame to have a little camera down your throat on a regular basis).

Initial treatment involves taking antacids, to neutralize the stomach acid. Tums are good, and they'll give you a calcium boost as well. Unfortunately, overuse of these can cause constipation and diarrhea. There are also over-the-counter medications that can either reduce or block acid production. They take longer to be effective, so it is a good idea to take them before a meal if you know that you will be eating trigger foods. Pepcid AC and Prevacid 24 HR are good starting points when shopping for these. If you are experiencing symptoms >2-3 times a week, a doctor will be able to prescibe stronger things for you. Surgery is also an option, but it is not a cure.

If you can, neutralizing your diet will be gentler on your digestive system.