Ways to manage acid reflux at home

Acid reflux or also known as heartburn brings discomfort to us and it may interrupt our activities for a day or two. Medicalnewstoday.com explains that acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the food pipe which causes a burning pain in the lower chest of an individual often after eating.

Here are a few tips on how to address acid reflux in the convenience of your home:

Experts suggest that chewing gum preferably sugar-free may help you ease the pain or discomfort. Researchers found out that chewing gum stimulates the saliva production which removes the acid level in the esophagus.

Meanwhile, mint-flavored gums like peppermint and spearmint should be avoided by people with acid reflux as it may provoke the symptoms.

Wear comfortable clothes. Avoid pants, shorts or skirts and even belts that put too much pressure on your waist or stomach as it may aggravate it and may lead to acid reflux. No matter how expensive or stylish it may be, if it makes you sick, get rid of it. Get some clothes that allow you to breathe and move freely.

Giving yourself at least three to four hours before lying down after meals will prevent you from having acid reflux. Instead of going to bed right after eating, it's better to wash the dishes first, watch television or prepare your things for tomorrow's work or school.

Watch your food intake. There are certain foods that may intensify your acid reflux symptoms. Thus, avoiding or limiting cheese, fried or oily food, processed snacks like potato chips, fatty meats like bacon, chocolate, spicy food, caffeine, alcoholic beverages, carbonated drinks, and acidic juices.

Giving up smoking will not only save you from heartburn but also from other diseases as well. Everydayhealth.com states that nicotine from tobacco relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve between the esophagus and stomach) which is one of the body's major defenses against gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In that case, there will be an acid surge and may damage the esophagus which eventually causes heartburn or acid reflux.

It is important to note that acid reflux if left untreated may lead to more serious illnesses such as Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer. Therefore, even if it is a common problem, acid reflux should not be disregarded. I hope the natural home remedies may help you but if the pain becomes intolerable anymore, it is advisable to visit and consult your doctor. (ERB)