Houston cuisine is certainly a mixture of all things American. On one hand, you’ve got beef, and plenty of it. Barbecued, ground, slow-roasted, seared: however you like your beef, you can be sure to find a heaping portion of it without too much hassle.

Houston is also the geographic beneficiary of two other culinary classics with our relation to both Mexican food (and the spicy Tex-Mex hybrid) and Cajun influences.

While all this makes for some decadent dining options that Yankees will never fully experience, it can also create an indigestion problem in H-town.

Some foods common in Houston cuisine, like onions, tomatoes and garlic are known to cause heartburn. Being overweight can also cause heartburn as a full stomach, or one that has pressure from excess fat around the belly, can keep your lower esophageal sphincter from closing, which allows stomach acid to enter the esophagus.

See other causes of heartburn with this Pass the Pepto! 5 Common Causes of Heartburn graphic.

So-called “heartburn” has nothing to do with your heart. Instead, it is the discomfort caused by the backup of this stomach acid in the esophagus and throat.

Signs it’s time to call a doctor:

• If you have heartburn two or more times per week
• If over-the-counter medication isn’t working
• If swallowing becomes difficult
• If you have chest pains accompanied by neck, jaw, arm or leg pains
• If chest pains are accompanied by shortness of breath or weakness

If you suffer from frequent or painful heartburn, don’t settle for a life of discomfort. Schedule an appointment with a Houston gastroenterologist who can diagnose and treat your heartburn as well as give tips on healthy living that could not only benefit your chest pains, but also help create a healthier you.