health Post

Lifestyle Changes to Help Treat Acid Reflux

Acid reflux refers to the condition in which gastric fluid flows back into the esophagus, resulting in heartburn. This condition brings about physical discomfort. Often, people tend to stop eating many foods because of severe acidity. However, this method may not always be effective. Along with dietary changes, one needs to also follow lifestyle changes to have a healthy digestive system. The stomach has a valve at its entrance known as the lower esophageal sphincter. It is a ring of muscle which controls the backflow of the food once it enters the stomach. If this stops functioning properly, the contents are pushed into the esophagus. Moreover, the acids produced in the stomach flow back into the esophagus. As a result, the affected person may feel a burning sensation in their chest. This is called heartburn and occurs due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In order to fight acid reflux, one needs to first understand what is causing the condition. Only then can dietary and lifestyle changes help cure the condition. The common causes of acid reflux are: Consumption of fried and oily foods Eating large quantities of food Eating snacks before bedtime Consumption of certain foods, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolates, onions, garlic, or spicy or fatty foods Taking certain medications, like aspirin and blood pressure medications Beverages like alcohol and coffee Certain lifestyle changes and healthy eating habits can curb the effects of GERD.