Heartburn is caused by the food and acid from the stomach washing back into the esophagus.

When we eat or drink protein pumps into our stomach releasing acid which helps to breakdown food and kill bacteria. The acid does not hurt us because of the protection of stomach lining; also the valve at the base of the esophagus keeps the acid in the stomach, so we do not feel it. Sometimes when the valve relaxes and the acid escape into the esophagus which has no protective lining, that is how we feel the burning sensation.

Many factors can trigger heart burn, such as spicy food, alcohol, a big meal and stress. To manage heart burn, we need to manage our lifestyle. It is important to have our meal routinely, take control of the amount of food and alcohol intake, find the way that is suitable for you to reduce stress.

I have helped many clients to improve their symptoms during my TCM practice. 

Some acupuncture points may assist to reduce the volume of the acid, minimize the stress, therefore, to improve the heartburn. During the Christmas and New Year holiday season, it is no doubt that many of us had been overeating or drinking, and it may have triggered heartburn. If you are suffering from it, please feel free to contact me. Acupuncture and herbal medicine may be your solution.