Acid Reflux Treatment: Treat GERD Naturally Through lifestyle and Diet
admin on Feb 27th 2010
Acid reflux or GERD is a very common condition that brings discomfort to those who suffer from it. And it’s not the occasional heartburn that can be cured with antacids. The pain is very irritating and it can last for few minutes to a very long time. It can affect the quality of your life and may keep you away from your favorite foods or even keep you awake at night. There are several treatment options available to relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. However, drugs and medications are helpful only for suppressing the symptoms. In order to get permanent relief, one needs to make a few changes in diet and lifestyle.
1. Because reflux is more likely to arise when you are lying down, let 3-4 hours elapse between your last meal and your bed time. Your stomach is a silly organ. When the least bit of food strikes it, the stomach responds by releasing a large amount of acid and digestive enzymes. By allowing a few hours to pass after your last meal, you will give time for the stomach to empty before bedtime.
2. Modify the nature of your last meal. Preferably, make your lunch your heavy meal, so that you will be satisfied with a lighter last meal. The ultimate aim of the acid reflux treatment is to avoid fried or other greasy foods, because fat stimulate the secretion of acid in the stomach.
3. There is a ring of muscular tissues at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. It is called the LES or “lower esophageal sphincter”. Certain foods cause the LES to relax, and thus promote reflux. Caffeine, chocolate, nicotine, alcohol and mint are the main culprits. Spicy or acid-containing foods, like citrus fruits, tomato juice, and carbonated beverages should also be avoided.
4. Overweight and obese people are much more probable to suffer from GERD, including nighttime acid reflux. Losing weight is an important feature of acid reflux treatment.
5. Elevate the head of the bed by placing wedges under the legs of the bed or using extra pillows. The aim is to elevate your throat and esophagus above the level of your stomach, in order that gravity works in your favor.
Having to cope with acid reflux is not fun, but with changes to your diet and lifestyle you should be able to find relief without the expense and side effects of medication. Long term use of above remedies as acid reflux treatment can result to an admirable outcome.
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