If you’re prone to getting heartburn, here's some relief...

There’s a good chance you’ll fall victim to heartburn at some point over the next few weeks...

Rich foods, overindulging and large meals can take a toll on anyone. Heartburn can be serious if left untreated. If you get it more than twice a week, you might have GERD. It’s something you’ll need to talk to your doctor about – but there are a few things you can do in the meantime that can make a big difference:

• Eat smaller meals

• Don’t lie down after you eat

• Avoid fatty or fried foods, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and caffeine

Some home remedies can offer relief for heartburn. Chewing sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after a meal stimulates the salivary flow rate and cuts down on acid. Baking soda helps too, by neutralizing the acid. Have a teaspoon with a glass of water. If you like licorice, you’re in luck. Licorice has natural stomach healing properties – just make sure to eat that in small doses because too much can have some serious side effects like high blood pressure.