By Alden Pennington
Acid Reflux is a common irritation of the esophagus after eating a meal. Generally referred to as heartburn, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid escapes into the esophagus, allowing stomach acids to erode away its lining and create an uncomfortable burning sensation. Surprisingly, approximately 36% of Americans suffer from this condition, which can range from a mild inconvenience to a serious problem, if left untreated.
Certainly, an individual's lifestyle can have a dramatic effect on the disease and its symptoms. Our focus is to inform you of the simple changes you can make in your lifestyle to create a dramatic impact on the effects of Acid Reflux.
Drink More Water
Water is a natural remedy for many different maladies. Acid Reflux is no different. Try to drink about one gallon of water on a daily basis to detoxify the stomach and to help wash away excess acid buildup.
Raise the Head of your Bed
Another simple, yet effective way to reduce the onset of acid reflux is to raise the head of your bed. As I mentioned before, lying down too soon after a meal can cause the stomach acids to reach your esophagus. Conversely, if you raise your bed, you reduce this backflow and the damages in may create.
Avoid “Trigger” Foods
It is well known, that certain foods trigger the onset of acid reflux and should be avoided by those who suffer from its symptoms. Types of foods include:
Greasy fried foods like French fries and fried chicken.
Onions
Carbonated Drinks
Spicy foods
Spaghetti with sauce
Tomatoes and tomato byproducts
Wine, especially red wines
Fatty foods
Don’t Eat Before Bedtime
The timing of your meals has a big impact on acid reflux symptoms. By not eating 3-4 hours before bedtime, you can lessen the amount of acid in your stomach, allowing yourself a better chance for good nights sleep.
Remember that during the day, gravity is working in your favor in keeping the acid where it belongs. At night, particularly after a meal, going to bed and lying down can immediately allow the acid to creep up and cause you discomfort.
Don’t overeat
Along with the obvious and well known dangers of overeating, it can also directly impact the effects of your acid reflux. Eating excessively creates bloating and can stretch the stomach. This can cause the lower esophagus to relax and allows acid to rise back up into your esophagus
Acid Reflux is no small matter for many of us, but as usual, our lifestyles impact every sickness, disease, and malady we have. It is clear that careful attention to healthy living can give you an excellent chance of overcoming your acid reflux problems.
Alden Pennington is co-author of NaturalHealthLifestyles.com and has been a natural health enthusiast for many years. Alden graduated from the University of Kentucky and is currently a Human Resources Director with a keen focus on the company wide health and wellness program. http://www.NaturalHealthLifestyles.com
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