Reducing certain foods, drinks, and other substances can prevent heartburn. That's because some foods stimulate the over-production of stomach acid. Others weaken or relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the band of muscles that normally keeps acid in your stomach.

• Avoid citrus, tomato products, and other acidic foods. Try eating pasta with pesto sauce and getting vitamin C from broccoli, sweet peppers, and potatoes.
• Reduce fatty foods. Eat more vegetables, non-citrus fruits, skinless poultry, and fish. Fried, high fat, and spicy foods can stimulate the production of stomach acid.
• Avoid cow's milk. Try soy and rice milk substitutes. Dairy can contribute to a range of digestive health problems, especial if you're lactose intolerant.
• Cut down on caffeine. Drink non-citrus fruit juices (apple, grape, etc.) and hot or cold herbal teas.
• Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about the best way for you to quit.
• Reduce alcohol. Try alcohol-free beers and wine instead. Drinking less also eliminates alcohol's empty calories.
• Watch How You Eat. An important part of heartburn prevention is watching how, what, and when you eat.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Eating 4 to 6 smaller meals a day (instead of 2 or 3 large ones) can reduce the amount of acid in your stomach.
• Eat slowly. Eating too quickly can lead to heartburn.
• Eat less. More food in your stomach can result in more acid that can bubble into your esophagus. Another benefit of not eating too much is that it may help you lose weight.
• Ensure an empty stomach before bedtime. Do not eat or drink anything other than water within 2 or 3 hours of going to bed.