HEALTH NOTES

HOW TO AVOID HEARTBURN

As winter approaches and our metabolism slows down, many of us suffer more attacks of heartburn.

“Heartburn is caused by the valve at the bottom of the oesophagus letting stomach acid escape upwards towards the throat,” says Dr Sarah Jarvis (pyrocalmcontrol.co.uk).

“It is most often triggered by a rich or high-fat diet, alcohol and stress.”

Simple lifestyle changes can often improve the condition, such as exercising more frequently and cutting down on fatty foods, alcohol and caffeine.

“Avoid eating heavy meals near bedtime to allow your stomach time to digest before lying down,” she advises.

But if they don’t do the job, there are some medications you can try.

“For occasional heartburn, antacid tablets that neutralise the acid from your stomach can help,” Dr Jarvis adds.

“For more frequent heartburn, medicine which reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces will bring longer-lasting relief.”

Speak to your GP or pharmacist for more information.

BATHE TO STOP DIABETES?

TAKING hot baths could help prevent type 2 diabetes.

Researchers found that bathing helped control blood sugar and prevent it from spiking, suggesting it could be a simple and costeffective way to control the condition.

The study tracked 1,300 patients with type 2 diabetes in Japan and found that those who took regular baths were found to have better blood sugar control, as well as smaller waist sizes and a healthier BMI.

On average, participants bathed for around 15 minutes at a time.