Simple Changes Can Prevent Acid Reflux

By Keira Adams

If you have acid reflux, getting relief could be as easy as changing a few of your habits. Keep reading for some strategies on stopping acid reflux before it gets going.

A number of folks experience acid reflux throughout the night. But simply by cutting out your bedtime snack, you can get a lot of relief. Aim to keep from eating for at least two hours before you retire for the night. This can be difficult if you're inclined to be a late-night snacker. But keep in mind that you will not have a restful night if you yield to temptation.

The time at which you eat is important, however what you eat is every bit as critical. Foods that are high in acid, such as alcoholic beverages, tomato products, coffee and citrus juices can all set off a bad case of acid reflux. At times, even an apparently harmless food can result in excess acid production in the stomach. Foods that are spicy or high in fat will also set off an incident of acid reflux.

Limiting the quantity of food you put away is another significant consideration in deterring acid reflux symptoms. What this means is that you don't want to stuff yourself at mealtime. Food is sent back up the esophagus when your stomach is overly full. And since it has already absorbed some of your stomach acids, this contributes to that fiery misery in your chest.

If you are obese, try losing several pounds. When they do, many people find their acid reflux symptoms are reduced. They frequently notice that there is less pressure on their stomachs and they have more room in which to digest their food. So it is not as likely to be brought back up the esophagus.

Once in a while you may find yourself giving in to temptation and eating the wrong foods, or stuffing yourself past the point of comfort. If that happens, it's vital that you stand or sit upright and avoid lying down. This will help to retain the food in your stomach, away from your esophagus, and accelerate the digestion process. Once you do lie down, make sure to keep your head raised, either by propping up your mattress or making use of an acid reflux wedge pillow.

Acid reflux sufferers who are overweight aren't the only people who should make better lifestyle choices. Smokers are also at higher risk of experiencing this condition. If you smoke, the muscles in your esophagus do not work as efficiently. This means that they are less able to prevent the undigested food in your stomach from making its way back up. Also, the stomach acids of those who smoke is more harmful because of the chemicals present. Every drag on a cigarette increases your risk of suffering from acid reflux.

Keep in mind that severe acid reflux might not respond to basic lifestyle modifications. There are those who will still have to go to see their health care provider to get relief. - 32390

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