In order to prevent acid reflux, you first need to understand the causes of acid reflux. Acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) happen when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) becomes weakened and allows stomach acid and food to leak back up into the esophagus. This leads to a variety of serious symptoms and can even cause other health problems.
Left untreated, GERD sufferers are at a much higher risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is a serious condition where the normal tissue lining the esophagus changes to tissue that resembles the lining of the intestine. Although rare, it can lead to deadly esophageal cancer.
It is also possible that untreated acid reflux can lead to erosion of your esophagus or a hiatal hernia.
Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux include:
- Heartburn/ burning sensation
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness & Sore Throat
- Regurgitation
- Bleeding in the esophagus
- Stomach ache
- Stop smoking
- Chew gum after meals to promote digestion
- Do not drink at meals, but wait 30 minutes after
- Drink plenty of water – half your body weight in ounces of water
- Avoid hard crunchy foods
- Do not bend over after meals
- Increase the amount of alkaline foods in your diet
Do You Know What Causes Acid Reflux?
People most commonly blame the causes of acid reflux on consuming too many spicy and harsh foods. The reality is that highly acidic foods are actually the root of the problem. Acidic foods increase the production of stomach acid. There are many foods that fall into this category, some of which might surprise you, including eggs and some fruits and vegetables. It is true that spicy, highly seasoned and strong tasting foods should be avoided or eaten in moderation.
You must not only watch what you eat but, when you eat and how much you eat. Do not eat right before bedtime. Eat 5 – 6 smaller meals throughout the day as opposed to eating 3 big meals. Steer clear of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Do not wear tight-fitting clothes. Tight clothes do not allow your body the room it needs to digest a large meal. You can also elevate your head when you sleep. By keeping your head elevated above your stomach you will force the stomach acid to stay in the stomach, preventing it from seeping into the esophagus.
Traditional Acid Reflux Treatments
Heartburn, especially mild heartburn is often ‘treated’ with over the counter antacids. While this may provide temporary relief, it does not really treat the cause of acid reflux problems or cure them. Doctors often prescribe drugs and medications for GERD and acid reflux. There are several types that work in several different ways, from promoting digestion in the stomach to blocking the acid produced in the stomach. Unfortunately these drugs have been proven to come with many serious side effects.
It is clearly much wiser and safer to attack the real causes of acid reflux and eliminate your problems naturally. Why would you want to develop other major health problems, become dependent on expensive and dangerous medications and yet still continue to suffer, when with a few changes you can get a natural acid reflux home cure?
Other Ways To Combat The Causes Of Acid Reflux
Learn Exactly What GERD Is And The Importance Of Taking Control Of The Problem…Today
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