People have been urged to watch out for the signs of a serious gastric complaint after tucking into Thanksgiving meals.

What some might pass off as too much food or drink could be a sign of something more serious, according to Indiana gastroenterologist Dr Kiran Tiriveedhi.

Frequent heartburn – two to three times a week – could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD he told the News-Sentinel.

Acidity from the stomach interferes with the oesophagus as the muscle that separates the organ from the vessel to the throat malfunctions.

Dr Tiriveedhi recommended people who were concerned consult a doctor.

To reduce the risk of heartburn, eat smaller meals, wear loose clothes, eliminate certain food, avoid bending over or lying down and do not smoke.

"GERD is definitely on the rise," Dr Tiriveedhi said, which can be attributed to obesity and a growing trend for fried or high-fat food and sugared drinks.

More than a third of Americans were recorded as obese in 2006, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.