Acid Reflux Nutrition

Normally, when food is swallowed, the lower esophageal sphincter valve will open to allow food to enter the stomach for digestion but with this condition the valve does not close properly. It is when the esophageal sphincter doesn't close after food has passed through that the stomach fluids try to escape upwards and that is why it is called acid reflux. This condition is also known as GERD which is the shortened version of the correct medical name: gastroesophageal reflux disorder. It is believed the problem that makes the condition worse is an unhealthy diet but it may not the only cause of acid reflux disorder; although overeating may also contribute because when you overeat, the stomach can't keep up with the demand to process all the acids.

Many people that overeat find they have this condition because their eating habits affect the stomach walls and place pressure on the muscles surrounding them. This in turn causes the esophageal valve to behave erratically leading to stomach fluids rising and causing the awful burning feeling in the chest. The aim is to lessen the stress on your stomach and stop any damage the stomach acid will cause to your esophagus. If this is a problem you have to live with then you should eat smaller meals during the day which will help the situation. The stomach is the doorway to the body's health so it needs to be treated with respect. The stomach carries out not only the breaking down of food but processing it into nutrients that can be absorbed by the body.

Using drugs and other acid reducing drugs readily available from drugstores will block the natural processes of your stomach on a temporary basis. However, these can interrupt natural body processes and cause other health problems. It may take a while but the best solution is to make adjustments to your drinking and eating habits which may have caused the acid reflux condition. Within a few months you should find your stomach has had a chance build up its resistance considerably. If you can reduce the heartburn occurrences, in time you may well be able to slowly start eating those dishes that have needed to be cut out.

However, there are other factors that can contribute to acid reflux or even induce episodes; for example:

• Regular smoking
• Allergies to certain foods
• Prescription medication
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Taking a nap after eating

All of these factors are within your control and it only requires a change of habits and behavior on your part. If you need an incentive to stop the occasions where you suffer with heartburn then this should be it! Determination on your part to reduce the number of episodes of acid reflux is all that is required. It really is a decision only you can make!