Make a List of Triggers

• Certain foods trigger heartburn, causing too much stomach acid to be produced. Though these foods may not be the same for everyone, some of the more common triggers include carbonated beverages, citrus fruits and juices, chocolate, caffeine, pepper and other spices. When you have a heartburn attack, make a list of what you ate. Soon, you may see a pattern forming; this will help you avoid your heartburn triggers.
  
  

Eat Smaller Meals

• When you eat smaller portions, the stomach has an easier time digesting the food and produces less stomach acid. Smaller portions also makes it easier for the food you have eaten to move through the digestive system more quickly.
  
  

Eat Three Hours Before Bed

• Eating right before going to bed can leave stirred up stomach acid and the food you just ate, sitting in a pool at the bottom of your esophagus where it causes irritation. Eating at least three hours prior to lying down gives the food time to move through your digestive system while you are still up and gravity is on your side.
  
  

Lose Weight

• Excess weight can place unneeded pressure on your your stomach, slowing the emptying of the stomach and its acids. If you decide to lose weight, speak to your doctor first and choose the safest way possible. As you lose weight, you should notice a decrease in the number of heartburn attacks you have. If not, speak to your doctor about that as well.