Do you know how acid reflux occurs? Do you know its causes? What makes symptoms worse? How can one eliminate these problems? By learning the answers to these questions, you can begin experiencing relief. The following article will help you combat your acid reflux symptoms once and for all.
Extra Pounds
GERD is more likely to occur when you are overweight. Those extra pounds put pressure on the stomach and cause the bottom of your esophagus to relax and allow reflux. Shedding a few extra pounds could cause the sphincter to tighten and limit acid reflux.
Elevating the head of your bed can work wonders to sooth nighttime acid reflux. Wood, books, and other items can be used to increase the elevation of your mattress. Some electronic beds will allow you to incline them easily.
If you haven’t already quit smoking, do so now. Acid reflux can be caused or worsened by the use of cigarettes or cigars. It can slow down your digestion and also your saliva production as well. This causes weakness of the esophageal sphincter. Therefore, quitting the cigarettes must be a priority.
You don’t want to wear restrictive clothing. Tight belts, waistbands and pantyhose can cause you discomfort. Your stomach will be under needless pressure from these types of tight fitting clothing. This can lead to heartburn and reflux symptoms. Consider comfortable clothes that do not put pressure on your stomach.
If you are suffering from extreme stress, you need to figure out how to control it. Too much stress is something that contributes to excess acid in one’s stomach, and that can lead to inflammation and heartburn. Learn to manage your stress, or get rid of the ones you can.
Shed pounds. Too much weight around your midsection can affect your acid reflux. Extra fat that’s around the belly area can put pressure on your stomach and cause reflux. Losing just a bit of weight can often bring welcome relief.
Slippery Elm Bark
Elm lozenges are a good treatment against acid reflux. Slippery elm bark, the main ingredient in these natural lozenges, coats your digestive tract in a protective layer. Slippery elm bark can also help with your coughing. These lozenges can be found at most health foods stores.
If you suffer from acid reflux, avoid foods that may trigger it. Some foods have been shown to be linked to acid reflux. These include fried and fatty foods, mint flavored items, tomatoes, spicy foods, carbonated drinks, onions, garlic, caffeine, and citrus. There are different triggers for each person, so find your trouble spots and stay away from them.
Were you already aware that food with acid and alkaline are unrelated to a food’s pH level? Foods that seem to be acidic, like lemons, are actually highly alkaline after digestion. This can be confusing when you have acid reflux. Learn the pH of foods if you have acid reflux.
You need to get exercising daily if you have acid reflux. Exercises that you could incorporate into your routine include walking and aerobic swimming. This keeps your body upright so that gravity can help prevent your food from moving up into the esophagus.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux should never be self-diagnosed. When you have symptoms which seem like acid reflux, go to the doctor immediately. Many other conditions, like ulcers and even heart disorders, mimic acid reflux disease. There are many tests your doctor may utilize to diagnose the condition.
Lose weight if you are overweight. Acid reflux can be exacerbated by too much weight. Excess weight can compress the stomach, resulting in acid reflux. Losing just a little weight can be helpful.
Don’t lie down after eating. Stay upright for a couple of hours. Sit up, stand or better still, take a stroll. You can take advantage of the laws of gravity to fight your acid reflux issues. The food you eat, as well as your specific body chemistry, will determine when lying down is acceptable.
Now you have increased your knowledge on everything from what the symptoms of acid reflux are to how to treat it. It’s up to you to determine your triggers and their counteractive methods. Use these tips and you will feel much better soon.
