Being above normal weight substantially increases the likelihood of suffering from heartburn and acid regurgitation and obese people are almost three times as likely to experience these symptoms as those of normal weight.

SUMMARY BackgroundBody mass index (BMI) increased following Helicobacter pylori eradication in several Japanese cohorts, which requires further investigation.

H. pylori infection is associated with a substantially reduced risk of three common atopic disorders. This is further indirect evidence of the importance of childhood infections in influencing the development of a normal immune response. As such infections become progressively less common in developed countries such as the UK, other methods will need to be developed to try to reduce the risk of atopic disorders.

This study indicates that modest consumption of wine and beer (approximately 7 units/wk) protects against H. pylori infection, presumably by facilitating eradication of the organism.

Objectives To investigate the effects of Helicobacter pylori infection and its eradication on heartburn and gastro-oesophageal reflux. Design Cross sectional study, followed by a randomised placebo controlled trial. Setting Seven general practices in Bristol, England.