15. Walk-in Visits with the Doctor: Heartburn

Welcome back to "Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor" with Miles Hassell MD. In this drop-in visit episode, Dr. Hassell tackles the common issue of heartburn and offers evidence-based lifestyle strategies to manage and often eliminate it without relying on medications. Key Takeaways: Lifestyle Changes Over Medications: Heartburn can often be managed effectively with lifestyle adjustments rather than pharmaceuticals.  Dietary Adjustments: Eliminate or drastically reduce sugars and refined carbohydrates, monitor and possibly reduce alcohol intake, and increase fiber from fruits, vegetables, beans, and grains. Weight Management: Being overweight can exacerbate heartburn, so maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate symptoms. Probiotic Foods: Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and sauerkraut may improve gut health and reduce heartburn.  Identify Personal Triggers: Pay attention to individual food triggers such as peppermint tea or foods made with flour, and adjust your diet accordingly. Dr. Hassell emphasizes the importance of personalized dietary choices and the potential benefits of lifestyle changes for managing heartburn effectively. For more tips and insights, visit our website at GreatMed.org and check out the book Good Food, Great Medicine, 4th edition.