Acid Reflux - Lifestyle Changes
Changes in Lifestyle may prove very helpful in relieving symptoms associated with "heartburn", such as simple dietary changes and/or changes in daily routine. GERD is not caused by diet but can be aggravated by certain foods. Also certain medications may aggravate symptoms. Most importantly when seeking medical advice be sure to disclose the use of any medications to your physician. The following suggestions may significantly reduce the symptoms associated with acid reflux:
Limit intake of foods and beverages that stimulate acid production: Keep a journal of foods and beverages that cause the least amount of "heartburn" and incorporate them into your diet. Conversely avoid foods and beverages that cause acid reflux symptoms.
Eat more frequently but consume smaller portions: Larger meals expand your stomach and may increase upward pressure against the LES (esophageal sphincter).
Don't lie down within 3 hours of eating: Acid is at its highest production post mealtime. Gravity will play a large part in keeping to a minimum the backward flow of digestive juices into the esophagus.
Avoid Exertion after meals: A proper amount of time to relax should be allowed for more successful digestion.
While sleeping insure that your head is elevated: Again, gravity can help keep with the backflow of digestive juices to a minimum. Another benefit is that it may also relieve pressure against the LES.
Avoid Smoking: A result of Nicotine use is the relaxation of the LES. Smoking also unnecessarily stimulates acid production.
Avoid consuming Alcoholic beverages: Alcohol consumption has similar effects to Nicotine but in addition may also make the esophagus more sensitive to stomach acid.
Maintain a healthy body weight: Abdominal pressure on the stomach can be reduced by the loss of excess weight. Even a moderate loss may greatly improve symptoms.
Avoid stress: Although not directly related, stress is associated with initiating behaviors that can produce symptoms.
Avoid clothing that puts pressure on the abdomen: Any clothing, such as belts, slimming undergarments, tight pants, that put pressure on the abdomen also force the stomach contents up against the LES and may cause reflux into the esophagus.
Please consult your physician if there is a continuation of symptoms more than once a week.
