6 Ways to Reduce the Effects of Acid Reflux Disease

Acid reflux disease, or GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) for short, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach, usually digestive acids, move back up the esophagus. This acid is not something the esophagus is supposed to have in it and as a result when reflux occurs a whole host of symptoms can begin. The first thing most people notice heartburn or minor discomfort but as the condition worsens there can be a bitter taste at the back of the throat, pain, burning and eventually damage to the esophagus and larynx.

There are many ways to treat the symptoms of acid reflux disease but the first thing you need to do if you suspect you have this condition is visit your doctor so you can be properly diagnosed. Treating yourself for a condition you don't have is not always a good idea, although most treatment options for acid reflux are nothing more then lifestyle changes which in the long run will benefit your overall health. Below you will find 5 quick tips that can help relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.

1. Dietary Changes – Learning which foods set off your acid reflux and avoiding them is a good first step. It also helps to eat smaller meals because the bigger the meal the more acid your stomach produces to digest its contents. Fast food should also be avoided because of its high fat content which seems to exacerbate symptoms in most people.

2. Weight Loss – Losing weight has been shown to help those who suffer the affects of acid reflux. Because fatty foods and foods with high sugar content are known to make it worse it only makes sense that cutting back on these foods will help reduce symptoms and lead to weight loss as well.

3. Gravity Works – If you suffer from acid reflux you may notice that it gets worse when you lay down, particularly after eating a big meal. The problem is that if you lie down right after eating the excess acid your stomach secretes has a much easier route into the esophagus. You need to give your stomach a good hour or two to digest its contents before lying down.

4. Cigarettes and Alcohol – Stopping smoking and practicing moderation with alcohol have both been shown to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Both of these habits weaken the esophageal sphincter which is the muscle that closes the esophagus off from the stomach. The high sugar content of alcoholic beverages also causes an excess of stomach acid to be secreted.

5. Chew Gum – Chewing gum causes salivation and saliva is the body's natural anti-acid. As you swallow the saliva released by chewing gum it neutralizes the acid that is moving up the esophagus and in the stomach.

6. Medications – There are a whole group of over-the-counter and prescription medication available to control the effects of acid reflux. It is best to talk to your doctor about these options and be sure to report any side affects they may cause. Your doctor can help pick the medication that will work best for your particular problem.

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