Dealing with acid reflux is no laughing matter. The suffering those who have this condition deal with daily can be debilitating. Thankfully, there are some options out there which will help you tame your acid reflux once and for all. Keep reading for some simple tips which will help to change your life forever.
After you take a bite or two, put down your fork. This ensures you are chewing fully and truly slowing down while you eat. Consider what this bite tastes like, and what was different than the last bite. Enjoy the texture of the food both when it first enters your mouth, and once you are done chewing.
It is important to avoid vigorous exercise if you deal with GERD. When you are compressing the stomach violently, you’ll find that acid makes its way up into your esophagus. Instead, engage in moderate activity which helps you lose weight, stay in shape and yet ensures that acid stays where it belongs.
Never, ever, EVER lie down after you eat! Even if you have only had a few bites, you may find that food comes back to haunt you in short order if you lie down. Eat all meals at least two hours before lying down for a nap or overnight to ensure that acid doesn’t sneak back up your esophagus.
To sleep better, try placing a wedge underneath the mattress to keep your head elevated and to help acid stay where it should. There are many things you can use to help the mattress alone sit an an angle. You may also find beds that are electronically controlled.
Always keep gravity in mind. Remember that acid is being held down, so when you position your body in a way where down isn’t towards your feet, problems will ensue. Keep your head up and your stomach uncompressed, then you should be able to find relief from acid reflux all day long.
To help avoid acid reflux, take your time and chew your food slowly. This technique helps you to avoid overeating. When you overeat, food is pressed in the top of your stomach; thus, it allows stomach acids to build up in you esophagus. For best results, eat small meals often.
We truly are what we eat. If we eat high-fat foods, we will become obese and be at risk for acid reflux. It is important that we instead focus on low-acid foods, which are lean and healthy. Choose vegetables and whole-grain carbohydrates along with lean protein for your meals to curb your suffering.
Does your voice crack now and then? If you have a hoarse voice, it could be caused by stomach acid rising into your throat. No, you are not getting a cold. It is acid reflux. Medications, altering your diet and staying upright after you eat could help you get your voice back. If the problem persists, see your doctor.
Intense periods of physical activity may be the cause of your acid reflux. Try to consume at least 8 glasses of water a day. You need water to stay hydrated. It also aids with digestion. You decrease and dilute your stomach acid by increasing your water intake.
Changing your lifestyle could decrease the discomforts you feel from acid reflux. Watch your diet so you can avoid foods that trigger the reflux. Reduce the stress you feel each day. Stress could cause the body to produce more acid. Shed a few pounds. The excess weight you carry could be putting pressure on your stomach and cause acid backup.
With this knowledge in mind and your desire to feel better, you should now be equipped with the tips you need to tackle acid reflux. Start changing your life one step at a time and relief will be yours in no time. All it takes is a little determination to end your suffering once and for all.