Medication Alternatives - Indigestion and Heartburn Treatments

There are some ailments that the human body experiences more commonly in it's senior years. Indigestion and heartburn are not limited to the elderly - although it does seem to effect people of advanced years more often and perhaps more acutely. Indigestion and heartburn are more often caused by a poor diet than anything else.

To avoid this it is a good idea to cut down on spicy foods, eating foods so late at night that the body does not have enough time to digest and to cut out (or severely reduce) acidic drinks such as: coffee, tea, cola drinks (and derivatives), chocolate and sugar.

In addition to this, peppermint should be avoided in any form. Although diet is a primary cause of indigestion and heartburn, how you sleep can also aggravate this condition. Try to sleep with your head significantly higher than the rest of your body - use an extra pillow if possible.

Adapted from : How you can help seniors use medication safely. Health Canada 1999.