(HealthDay News) -- Foods that trigger heartburn in many people include chocolate, fatty and spicy foods, and dairy products.

Avoiding foods and beverages that trigger your symptoms is paramount, but you can also do other things to prevent the onset of heartburn, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse says:

• If you are overweight, come up with a plan to lose those extra pounds.
• Don't smoke.
• When you lie down, make sure your head is about 6 inches higher than your feet.
• Don't lie down for at least two hours after you eat.
• Take an antacid.