Cure Acid Reflux Now

What is Acid reflux? It's that burning sensation you feel in your gut when the hydrochloric acid in the stomach backs up through the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and into the esophagus.

Left untreated, acid reflux can lead to more serious problems such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and in some cases esophageal cancer. It can also take its toll on family and relatives who need to rush their loved ones to the ER in the middle of the night. Imagine that, you're out partying and enjoying your family get-together, then after the dinner (and when you're trying to rest at night), someone complains of acute abdominal pain. Could that be acid reflux, you wonder, as you drive your relative to the hospital.

If you know what causes acid reflux, then you can help get rid of that burning stomach pain as you avoid a future repeat bout with acid reflux.

Here are some tips to protect you from acid reflux:

1. Watch what you eat. Avoid acidic foods such as potato chips, fruits, tomatoes, peppermint, chocolate, caffeine, and even spicy food. In Tagalog, sour stomach is also known as "pangangasim."

2. Practice healthy habits. For example, do you smoke or overeat? Nicotine tends to increase the production of stomach acid, while overeating and the resulting weight gain creates pressure on your stomach.

3. Consult with your doctor regarding physiological issues. Do you have a hiatal hernia? That may be the cause of your acid reflux, since a portion of your stomach may have entered your thoracic cavity via your diaphragm. While there are people who have lived with such a hernia without suffering acid reflux, there are others who may not have been as fortunate.

4. Avoid lying flat in bed. Try elevating your head by placing pillows behind your lower back. By keeping your head higher than your chest, gravity helps keep your acid in the right place.

5. Wear loose clothing. Tight-fitting clothes may contribute to your heartburn, particularly if the tightness is found in the middle of your torso. Imagine someone squatting over your stomach, and that's why wearing ill-fitting clothes or belts can make you feel.

6. Eat the right amount of food. Overeating does increase the amount of acid in your tummy. It would be better to consume smaller meals several times throughout the day, than to gorge on large meals three times a day. Not only does this tactic help you avoid heartburn, it also gives you a feeling of fullness even if you did not overeat. The bonus effect is, you are able to lose weight!

If you follow these tips, you'll be able to lessen the chance of suffering acid reflux which can happen to anyone anytime and anywhere.

[ First posted on 03/10/2007 by Manuel Viloria ]