If you suffer from acid reflux, you are one in literally tens of millions in this country. Acid reflux affect most adults at one point or another. Instead of just suffering through the pain, take the steps necessary to prevent these symptoms from occurring in the first place. The article below will show you how.
Don’t just assume your acid reflux is a fact of life or consequence of your active lifestyle. If you find yourself suffering through frequent bouts of discomfort related to acid reflux, see your doctor. It may be something you ate or an indication that you need to slow down in life, but it could also be something else you need to take care of.
If you’re experiencing acid reflux lately, try a new diet that consists of low-acid foods. Avoid spicy or acidic foods and eat your food slowly. If you still get acid reflux, it’s probably time to check in with your doctor. Although your problem may not be serious, it may require medication that your doctor can recommend or prescribe.
Limit your liquid intake with meals if you’re prone to acid reflux. Even healthy beverages like water can fill up your stomach fast, creating conditions that are conducive to acid reflux. Sip your beverage conservatively and never gulp it down. Wait a half an hour after a big meal to enjoy quenching your thirst.
If you suffer with acid reflux, understand how gravity can work in your favor. Sitting upright will help keep food and fluids down after meals, so keep yourself straight. Avoid lying down or even slightly reclining in your favorite chair as this will exacerbate reflux symptoms quickly. Try going for a short and healthy walk instead!
High fat foods may be tasty, but that can be troublesome for anyone who suffers from acid reflux. Foods that are high in fat cause the sphincter of the lower portion of the esophagus to become relaxed and increase the time it takes for the stomach to empty. Both of these conditions make it possible for acid reflux to occur. Eat a healthy balanced diet of vegetables, fiber, grains, and lean protein.
If you have been having any acid reflux symptoms over an extended period of time, make sure that you go in to be seen by a doctor. You may think that this condition is not that serious, but if it is not treated it can lead to more serious health issues, including ulcers and gastritis.
To help avoid acid reflux, take your time and chew your food slowly. This technique helps you to avoid overeating. When you overeat, food is pressed in the top of your stomach; thus, it allows stomach acids to build up in you esophagus. For best results, eat small meals often.
Stress can cause acid reflux. When you are stressed, your body naturally produces more stomach acid. After each meal, do something you find relaxing. Read a book or go for a walk, for example.
When your symptoms are at their worst, mix 1 teaspoon of regular baking soda with eight ounces of water. Drink this slowly, one sip at a time, until your symptoms subside. Do NOT do this every day as baking soda contains a great deal of sodium which can lead to a myriad of other health problems.
Avoid eating spicy foods including those with hot peppers in them. These foods can lead to painful acid reflux after eating, so not eating them can easily remedy your discomfort. Instead, focus on spices which don’t lead to pain, such as cinnamon or herbs. They taste great and leave you comfortable post-meal.
Contracting the abdominal muscles can make food that is in your stomach to make its way back into the esophagus. This is why you need to wait until at least one hour after eating before you attempt to do any physical exercise. You should also avoid any other types of physical exertion directly after meals.
Limit the amount of liquid you consume with all your meals. Too much liquid can cause the stomach to become much too full, which increases your chances of suffering from acid reflux symptoms. You should only allow yourself to have small sips of water in between your bites of food.
If you would like to reduce acid reflux, avoid alcohol. Alcohol causes acid build up in your stomach and it may deteriorate the lining in your stomach, which can cause acid reflux. If you are planning an evening out, commit yourself to having just one drink.
As was mentioned at earlier in this article, millions of Americans have the unfortunate experience of having to deal with acid reflux. If you are one of them, make sure that you implement the tips mentioned above. Not only will you alleviate your symptoms now, but you’ll prevent them from occurring int he future.
