Monday, November 1, 2010

Heartburn: Is It Safe To Take Cayenne Pepper

By Emma Deangela

Heartburn, contrary to popular belief is not associated with heart disease. The symptoms maybe similar in a few ways but heartburn actually pertain to an issue with indigestion medically called Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. It is characterized by the following: a burning sensation in the chest and throat, difficulty in swallowing, bitter taste in the mouth, and chronic coughing including wheezing (or asthma like symptoms). GERD is caused by acid refluxing back into the esophagus, thus explains the definition. This is due to overproduction of acids in the stomach which is beyond what the intestines can handle. The acids trigger the burning sensation in the chest and throat as well as other symptoms mentioned.

Heartburn is caused by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) not closing properly during the digestion process that it pushes some of the digestive acids to reflux back to the stomach and esophagus, which causes heart burn. Overeating contributes to this abnormality as more food to be digested means more acids needed for it. GERD is also common during pregnancy and on individuals suffering from obesity since extra body weight pressures the stomach to revert its acids upwards.

Certain foods such as chocolate, fruit can bring on LES; also alcohol and those that contain caffeine such as coffee. Hot, spicy foods are particularly bad for the digestive system. Fatty foods and anything cooked in Oil are a major cause of heartburn. Stress and smoking are stimulants to stomach acids and are a major cause.

Many people are indulged into eating spicy food where any type of pepper is part of the meal. Although not all individuals enjoy hot and spicy food, some really cannot eat without these condiments or appetizers in their meals. Cayenne pepper is one of the most popular spices that create a distinct hot taste in any menu. This is usually seen in the form of powder which can be added to any food while being cooked. In some cases, these can be added on top any food or meal. Cayenne pepper also has medicinal purpose that is why such condiment is processed into a herbal supplement.

While some people love the taste of hot and spicy food, it is important to know if it still safe to eat cayenne pepper when you are experiencing heartburn. Yes. It is indeed safe to eat cayenne pepper even if you have heartburn as long as the content is at a minimal amount. It only becomes unsafe when it is taken in huge amounts. Aside from cayenne pepper, there are also spices that belong to the same family such as jalapenos, bell pepper and others; all these must be taken in control.

If you wish to continue, eating foods that cause heartburn it is advisable to at least reduce your intake. Take medical advice in order to be sure of a healthy diet and this will help you eradicate heartburn.

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