Acid reflux or heartburn is one of the most common types of digestive issues faced by us yet many aren’t aware of what chronic acid reflux can cause to our body. Acid reflux is also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and happens when one’s stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.
If a person experiences acid reflux symptoms such as burning sensation in chest, regurgitated food taste at the back of one’s mouth, or sore throat more than twice a week, they are likely to have gastroesophageal reflux disease.
How to avoid acid reflux?
Acid reflux can occur due to a number of reasons including lying down right after having food, delayed stomach emptying, irregular food cycle, consumption of high fat foods, excessive caffeine intake and more. To avoid acid reflux or heartburn, try these following methods.
Avoid lying down for two-three hours after a meal
After a heavy meal, our body needs time to start the digestive process. Lying down instantly after a meal can cause heartburn.
Take smaller meals
Instead of having a full heavy mea;, opt for smaller meals in a more frequent interval. That way one can avoid bloating and heartburn.
Steer clear of foods that can trigger acid reflux
A number of foods can cause digestive complications and cause heartburn. The list of triggering food items include fatty or fried food, coffee, carbonated beverages, such as soda, chocolate, garlic, onions, citrus fruits, peppermint, spearmint and tomato sauce. While choosing your food items, especially dinner, avoid any triggering diet that can cause heartburn.
Wear loose fitting cloth
Tight fitting cloth that can cause pressure in the abdomen is one more reason for acid reflux. Avoid wearing tight clothing while having food or after having food.
Stay fit
Staying fit, regularly putting some time to work out and not gain rapid weight can help not to get heartburn.
Here’s what you should eat to avoid nighttime heartburn
Nighttime heartburn leads to a very exhaustive body and more severe complications if it happens quite frequently. Here’s what you should eat to avoid nighttime heartburn.
While common foods like onion, garlic or even chocolates can cause acid reflux, there are a number of herbs which can sooth the stomach and prevent the stomach from acid reflux. Here’s what you need to include in your diet.
chamomile
licorice root
marshmallow root
slippery elm
Apart from food and lifestyle habits, mental health issues like anxiety can also lead to heartburn or GERD. If the acid reflux lasts for a while, it is best to be advised by medical professionals and make a personalized diet chart to avoid heartburn.
