Cigarettes & Heartburn

While it is common knowledge that cigarette smoking is harmful to your lungs, evidence now exists that proves that smoking is also bad for your digestive health as well. According to the National Heart Burn Alliance, smoking can actually induce heartburn.

Significance

• When you smoke, it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. When this muscle is in a relaxed state, acid from the stomach gets into the esophagus and causes heartburn.

Function

• According to the National Heart Burn Alliance, cigarette smoke increases acid exposure to the esophagus by 50 percent. Heartburn also typically occurs when lying down, but smokers are 114 percent more prone to having it standing up than non-smokers.

Misconceptions

• However, not all research has demonstrated a clear connection between smoking and heartburn. According to the National Heart Burn Alliance, people with GERD do not benefit from the cessation of smoking.

Prevention/Solution

• For those who cannot quit smoking completely, exercising and stress reduction can also help lower the incidence of heartburn.

Warning

• Smoking is known to cause overall damage to the digestive system. Heartburn could be a sign that vital organs such as your stomach and liver are being damaged.