The exact cause of heartburn is not known. Most symptoms are related to eating, drinking, swallowing air, and emotional upset. Excessive smoking, eating and drinking are the most common causes of heartburn. Never smoke before or while eating. Smoking often causes one to swallow small amounts of air, which form air pockets in the digestive tract with the added pressure of food.
Smoking also slows the body's ability to digest food.
Monitor which foods cause you to suffer heartburn. Eat at a dinner table in an upright, sitting position. Go for a small walk after eating, which will help stimulate the digestive system. Don't chew gum before meals, which also causes one to swallow air. Never exercise following a large meal.