It’s surprising how many people are laid low by high acidity. Over the counter prescriptions may help but they sometimes leave behind a sensation of extreme discomfort. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD) is a condition in which stomach contents, including acid, back up (reflux) into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to the esophagus. Basically, acid is needed for digestion but some people secrete more than necessary. This irritates the duodenum and the stomach linings. It may even lead to ulcers in the stomach. The treatment of GERD is not clear cut but there are few things worth considering.
The symptoms of GERD are a burning pain in the chest behind the sternum or breastbone, a burning or aching pain in the upper abdomen usually accompanied by acid reflux. There are many causes for GERD. For some people there is a natural tendency for the stomach to produce more acid or because of a weakness in the normal sphincter mechanism. In this case it commonly occurs after eating, lifting weights or straining. GERD can also be exacerbatted by the consumption of foods with too much fat or spice, excess consumption of alcohol, coffee or tea, smoking and even over eating. Eating late or eating just before sleeping or sometimes even medication can cause acidity. The treatment of GERD in part, requires the correcting of bad dietary habits.
Since diet is major contributor to symptoms, changes in diet and behaviour associated with eating may help in the treatment of GERD. Try to eat regular small meals, and avoid eating until bloated and full. Keep liquids separate from meals time, to prevent over-filling the stomach. Try to avoid oily and spicy foods. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables however keep highly acidic varieties to a minimum (oranges, tomatoes, grapefruit). Try to cut down on processed and refined foods, especially carbohydrates – choose whole-grains instead. Some people find that reducing or eliminating alcohol and caffeine is beneficial in the treatment of GERD.
Try to avoid vigorous activity for an hour or so after you have eaten, do not carry out task that require you to bend over (gardening, changing beds). Avoid lying down immediately after eating and try to eat at least 3 hours before going to bed.
Some remedies off the kitchen shelf, such as drinking aniseed and water, cumin and water, and chewing on cloves or cardamom could relieve acidity. A long term cure, however, can come about only with a dietary change as well as perhaps, a lifestyle change.
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