Below are some tips you can follow to reduce nighttime indigestion and enjoy better quality sleep.
Nighttime heartburn, often referred to as acid reflux, can seriously disrupt sleep and affect overall well-being. For many people, the uncomfortable burning sensations in the chest and throat can be worse, leading to sleepless nights, fatigue, and even long-term health problems if not treated properly. Heartburn can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as lying down after eating, consuming spicy foods, or eating larger meals before bed. These factors can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing acid to rise. The good news is that it can be cured by making certain lifestyle and dietary changes.
Below we provide some tips that you can follow to reduce nighttime discomfort and enjoy better quality sleep.
5 Ways to Cure Nighttime Heartburn
- Eat smaller, lighter portions: One of the most effective ways to reduce nighttime indigestion is to change your eating habits. Avoid heavy meals at night, at least 2-3 hours before bedtime. Opt for foods that are easy to digest and low in spices.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake: Caffeine and alcohol are common culprits of indigestion. They mainly trigger acid reflux at night, which causes major digestive distress. Avoid drinking tea, coffee, caffeinated soft drinks, or alcohol, especially before bedtime.
- Manage stress: Stress is one of the main factors that contribute to indigestion and heartburn. It can produce more stomach acid and upset the intestinal digestive system. Incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine can improve your mental well-being and digestive health.
- Avoid sleeping in certain positions: The position you sleep in can affect your chances of getting heat burns. Sleeping on your back or right side can make heartburn worse by allowing stomach acid to flow more easily into the esophagus. So, to avoid indigestion, try sleeping on your left side.
- Over-the-counter medications: For those who frequently experience heartburn at night, over-the-counter medications may be helpful. They reduce acid production and can be taken before meals to prevent heartburn.
