Heartburn is the hallmark symptom of acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, GORD) — a burning sensation felt behind the breastbone that rises from the stomach or chest toward the throat, often accompanied by a sour or acidic taste. It arises when the lower oesophageal sphincter fails to prevent stomach acid from refluxing upward. Triggers include large meals, lying down after eating, fatty or spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus, and smoking.

What lifestyle changes can help with heartburn?

Eat smaller meals. Avoid lying down for three hours after eating. Elevate the head of the bed. Identify and avoid personal dietary triggers. Reduce alcohol and stop smoking. Maintain healthy weight.

What integrative approaches support heartburn?

Dietary and lifestyle modification has strong evidence. Alginate preparations (Gaviscon) have strong evidence for symptom relief. Proton pump inhibitors have strong evidence medically. Acupuncture has moderate evidence as an adjunct.

When should I seek professional support for heartburn?

See a doctor if heartburn occurs more than twice weekly, does not respond to lifestyle change, or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, vomiting, weight loss, or dark stools.

digestiveAlternativeComplementaryHolistic

Heartburn

A burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus.

Understand what may be causing this

Reviewed by Internal Medical Editorial Team · Integrative Health Content Review26 March 2026Strong Evidence

Quick answer

A burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus.

Recognition

Do any of these feel familiar?

People describe a burning feeling rising from the stomach after meals, particularly when bending or lying down, with a sour taste in the mouth or throat. Symptoms are often worse after eating late or consuming trigger foods.

What is Heartburn?

A burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus.