Avoiding Acid reflux
A report from The New England Medical Journal states that acid reflux affects ‘60 percent of persons at some time during the course of a year and 20 to 30 percent of persons at least weekly in the USA alone’
Thus, it will not be improper to say that acid reflux is a fairly common ailment amongst the general population. Acid reflux occurs due to the impairment of the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). LES is no longer able to withhold the stomach content, including the acidic juices. This causes a backflow of the acidic juices into the esophagus and irritates its lining.
A change in dietary patterns is a major weapon in avoiding acid reflux. Nowadays more and more people are veering towards fast food. Fast food is low in nutrition, fiber and very high oil and spice. The intake of oily and spicy food is known to trigger off acid reflux as they are do not find much favor with the stomach. Hence dieticians recommend avoiding spicy and oily stuff.
One should also avoid wearing tight fitting clothes, as they tend to put more pressure on the stomach and pushes up the acidic content. The regular use of tight fitting clothes can lead to acid reflux.
Obesity can trigger acid reflux in many cases. Hence try to keep the weight under control. In fact, studies have shown that even a moderate increase in the weight can result in an increase risk of acid reflux. Hence one should try to keep a stable weight. Also if one is over weight or obese, head to the nearest gym and start knocking off that lard.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Both are known to relax the muscles of lower esophageal sphincter thus aiding acid reflux. Also both alcohol and cigarettes are known for creating other medical complications. Hence they should be avoided.
One should also make it point to have the meals at least 1-2 hours before sleeping. This will aid in digestion. Similarly one should not lie down or sleep immediately after having a meal. Also pay attention to the quantity of food eaten by you. Try having six small meals instead of three big meals. This will give the stomach some time for digestion. Also try to avoid bending or undergoing vigorous exercise after having a meal.
Stress is another factor, which can start off acid reflux. Hence try to be relaxed and avoid taking too much of tension.
Thus acid reflux can be avoided by regular exercise coupled with some changes in dietary patterns and having a healthy and balanced food.