(Radio Iowa) – Some Iowans are learning the hard way that overindulging in their favorite seasonal comfort foods can be a recipe for heartburn. Dr. Michael Kreines, a gastroenterologist, says if you ate or drank too much at a holiday or family gathering, you may have been left with that painful, burning sensation in your chest or throat. “Don’t let it ruin your holiday. Being mindful of what you eat and what you drink can help you avoid heartburn symptoms,” Kreines says. “There are also safe and effective over-the-counter and prescription medications to help treat heartburn symptoms.”

Studies show more than one in four Iowans suffer from heartburn or acid reflux at least once a week. If it’s two or more days a week, that’s considered “frequent” heartburn. He says Iowans in that category -can- find relief.  “Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors, or O-T-C P-P-I-S, provide a safe and effective option when taken according to the label,” he says, “and they are the only nonprescription medicines that are specifically recommended to help treat frequent heartburn symptoms.”

Some brand names include: Prevacid, Nexium, Prilosec and Zegerid. For more information, visit KnowYourOTCs.org.