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Loading ...Concerns with Acid Reflux
For those who face the condition of acid reflux, there is a level of discomfort that becomes associated with meal times. Acid Reflux occurs when a back flow of stomach acid moves up into the esophagus. The symptoms associated with acid reflux occur when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes at the wrong time, which allows for strong stomach juices to build up and cause the burning sensation known as “heartburn”.
The production of stomach acid is a necessary part of digesting the food we eat. The stomach is designed to contain this acid without any difficulties. However, if a person with acid reflux eats too much during mealtime, excess stomach acid is produced, resulting in acid reflux.
Acid reflux is a chronic condition, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious medical complications. While over the counter antacid tablets can provide a temporary relief, they are not intended as a long-term treatment, and may not remedy the problem to the level that is needed. The most effective way of managing the negative effects of acid reflux can be controlled by making changes in dietary and eating habits.
Manage Your Meals
Knowing how to avoid acid reflux is simple: The bigger the meal, the higher the chance of experiencing the unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux. By exercising self-control, and paying attention of the amount of food taken in for each meal, a fine balance can be struck between eating well and finding ways to enjoy the dining experience.
Resisting the urge of eating excessively or eating too quickly is beneficial for several health reasons. Moderating food intake allows for easier digestion, and allows for a person to get “full” without overeating. Instead of waiting for those large three meals a day, try eating smaller, more frequent meals. Overeating only leads to stimulating the stomach to secrete more acids for digestion.
Drink Sensibly
Proper food intake management doesn’t apply just to meals. It applies to the beverages that go with the meal as well. Beverages just don’t go through your stomach without affecting acid production. Caffeinated beverages can irritate an inflamed lower esophagus, and alcoholic beverages stimulate acid secretion. Drinking a beer can actually double the stomach acid in a person’s body within an hour.
Recommended Foods
There are certain foods that will help strengthen muscles in the muscle valve. Look for foods that are rich in protein (such as poultry or fish), have a steady diet of fruits (non-acidic), vegetables, grain products rich in selenium, and foods that are low in fat. Avoid consumption of foods that have high levels of caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, and spearmint. It is also important to monitor the intake of all alcoholic and carbonated drinks during mealtime, or especially before going to bed.
Know Your Limits
As with any medical condition, a person’s body will handle reactions to certain physical conditions differently, and it is up to the individual to know where their personal limits are.
Learn more about Acid Reflux and Heartburn here.
Sources:
http://www.healthcastle.com/acid_reflux.shtml
http://www.healthcentral.com/acid-reflux/introduction-000085_9-145.html
http://www.endowsec.com/pated/edtgs03.htm
http://www.teeccino.com/gitract.aspx
Written by Allen James for MicroNutra Health™