When you are advised to take medications with plenty of water or food, heed the warning because it may prevent heartburn. In some people, bending over or lying down after eating aggravates heartburn. Common food culprits include high-fat foods, onions, alcohol, garlic, coffee, tomato and orange juices and carbonated drinks. Surprisingly, peppermint and chocolate, often given to top off a meal and aid digestion, also can cause heartburn in susceptible individuals. In contrast, many people eat all these foods without problems.
Some people even have esophageal reflux but no heartburn symptoms.
Drug companies have given us lots of choices for relief. For occasional discomfort, antacids work quickly by neutralizing acid. Some contain anti-gas preparations as well. Some brands also contain calcium, which can boost your daily intake. Do not take the maximum daily dose of antacids for more than two weeks without consulting your doctor.