Are you often plagued with the heartburn and indigestion that is associated with acid reflux? If so, you're definitely not alone. In a recent study, it was revealed that one in every ten people living in the United States is suffering with this condition. Studies have also suggested that at least 60 million of those who live in the US experience at least one episode of acid reflux each month. Although millions of dollars are spent each year on medication in an attempt to bring soothing relief, many people do not find the relief they are seeking. If you are seeking information on how to prevent or alleviate the heartburn and pain caused by acid reflux, this article contains numerous tips that will provide the help that you need. By continuing to read, you will find guidelines to help you with this quest.
It is important to avoid vigorous exercise if you deal with GERD. When you are compressing the stomach violently, you'll find that acid makes its way up into your esophagus. Instead, engage in moderate activity which helps you lose weight, stay in shape and yet ensures that acid stays where it belongs.
Fatty foods no more! Fried chicken, pizza, chicken wings and potato chips are the enemy of the GERD sufferer. These foods cause your sphincter to relax, allowing the contents of your stomach, acid and all, to rise back up into your esophagus. Go for meals full of vegetables and lean protein instead.
High-impact exercising can increase your acid reflux symptoms. When lower abdominal muscles tighten during a work out, this can lead to food moving back into the esophagus. Therefore, wait at least an hour before engaging in high-impact exercises.
Does your voice crack now and then? If you have a hoarse voice, it could be caused by stomach acid rising into your throat. No, you are not getting a cold. It is acid reflux. Medications, altering your diet and staying upright after you eat could help you get your voice back. If the problem persists, see your doctor.
Don't just treat the symptoms of acid reflux with antacids. This does nothing to help reverse the damage caused to the esophagus caused by acid. You'll need to make lifestyle changes that prevent acid reflux from occurring to allow the esophagus to heal itself and prevent serious problems in the future.
Limit the amount of fluids you intake while eating. Fluids add volume to the food you are eating, which will result in overfilling your stomach and allowing stomach acids to rise into your esophagus resulting in acid reflux. By limiting the amount of fluids you ingest, you can help prevent acid reflux.
Elevate your head above the bed. There are several materials you can use to raise the bed up, including bricks or blocks of wood. Make sure your head is at least a half foot higher than above the end of the bed. Raising your head is a good way of keeping the acid in your stomach.
Avoid wearing clothing that is restricting around your abdomen. Wear your belts loosely and avoid pantyhose that are tight if at all possible. These articles could push on your stomach. This pressure on the abdomen could easily lead to heartburn. You may have to do some sit-ups each day to avoid buying new pants and skirts that fit properly.
Reduce the fat in your diet. Excess fat causes your LES muscle to relax, which delays stomach emptying. As a result, acid reflux is more likely to occur. Therefore, if you consume lots of fried foods, substitute them for leaner, grilled options. This is not only good for your acid reflux, but also for your overall health.
Try to burn some excess weight off your body. Acid reflux is more likely to occur in people with extra body fat, particularly if it is stored in their abdomen. The fat around your stomach and esophagus puts pressure on them, causing them to malfunction and give you heartburn. You can notice a significant improvement if you lose just a couple pounds.
You should limit your alcohol consumption. Alcohol increases stomach acid production. If you must drink, limit intake to a single glass. Experiment to find a liquor or wine that does not aggravate your symptoms.
Work on relaxing. Don't eat when you're upset or you will increase your acid build-up. When you are done with your meal, engage in a yoga session. Do not assume a supine position after eating. Instead, maintain an upright position.
Cut down on the amount of coffee that you consume if you want to eliminate GERD symptoms. There is nothing wrong with having a small cup of coffee in the morning, but if you are consuming three to four large lattes every day, that is asking for acid reflux issues.
Consume peppermint if you are trying to reduce the severity of your acid reflux symptoms. Peppermint can give you a cooling sensation and help you to feel comfortable when you are experiencing your pain. You can get peppermint in supplement form or simply add it to the meals that you consume.
While there are foods that are commonly known to increase the symptoms of acid reflux, every person is different. It is important that you pay attention to what bothers you and then adjust your diet accordingly. For instance, while tomato based foods often cause problems in people with acid reflux, they may not bother you.
Don't completely lie down if you are experiencing acid reflux issues. Lying down only makes the problem worse. If you must be in bed, prop yourself up for at least two hours. Better yet, keep active and stand up for some time after eating to help your digestion. A relaxing walk after a meal can really help.
As stated at the beginning of this article, acid reflux is a condition that affects many people. With simple changes in diet and lifestyle, some people are enjoying a fuller life with less indigestion problem. Since you have read this article, you should have a better understanding about the causes of acid reflux, when you can tackle this condition or your own and when you should seek the advice of a medical professional.
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