Waking up with heartburn is hardly the ideal way to start the day. It’s frustrating, uncomfortable, and can leave you feeling out of sorts before you’ve even had your morning coffee. If you’re occasionally waking up to heartburn, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue8 and understanding why it happens is the first step toward finding relief.

We’ve all had that “ugh, I shouldn’t have eaten that” moment, but how do you actually know whether it’s heartburn or indigestion you’re dealing with?

Ever wondered what makes your stomach capable of breaking down food so effectively? It’s all thanks to stomach acid, also called gastric acid—a powerful digestive fluid produced by the stomach lining. This acid plays a vital role in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, keeping your digestive system running smoothly.