Let’s face it! You’re only human, and you’re not always going to do what’s best for you. So when someone tells you the best way to avoid heartburn is to keep away from those foods you love, or to keep your weight down, or reduce stress, you may know they’re right. But you’re not always going to listen!

So the question is what’s the best way to survive heartburn? And how do you keep those burning pains under control?

Know what’s causing the trouble

Heartburn is a digestive problem that actually has nothing to do with the heart. You’ll feel it as a “burning” pain behind the breastbone. Heartburn occurs when acid moves up from your stomach and into the esophagus or food pipe. And it is usually related to certain meals, beverages or posture.