Avoiding Foods that Cause Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (a muscle or valve in our stomach) is weakened and forced open. When this happens, foods and juices rise up, causing the burning feeling of acid reflux. Everyone will have their own triggers when it comes to acid reflux, however there are certain foods that can cause acid reflux for the majority of people who suffer from this disease.

Caffeine is high on the list of foods that cause acid reflux. This includes coffee, tea, and carbonated beverages. Sadly, these are vices for many people because many barely stand to face the day before a cup of coffee or two. Carbonated beverages are almost addictive. Giving up these comforts can be difficult, but will certainly help to reduce occurrences of acid reflux.

Fried foods and other high fat foods are at the very top of the list of foods that cause acid reflux. This is because these foods take a long time for the body to digest. This increases pressure in the stomach, which in turn puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and allows for reflux to occur.

Other common foods that cause acid reflux include citrus foods and juices, tomatoes and tomato based products, and chocolate. All these foods can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and allows for stomach contents and juices to rise up. While it is not a food, tobacco is also a prime culprit.

Unfortunately foods that cause acid reflux are some of the foods that people enjoy most, which is why acid reflux is such a common problem.

Ways to Lessen Acid Reflux

Here are one way to lessen the occurrences of acid reflux: Don’t eat too much! When the stomach is too full, it puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. It is also important to not lie down directly after eating and is recommended to not lie down until two to three hours after eating.

Another way is to simply avoid the foods that cause acid reflux to occur. Each individual should eventually be able to recognize their trigger foods and avoid them. And of course another way to lessen acid reflux is through prescribed medications by your doctor.

If you prefer the more natural way, you can try the self-help methods. These methods are natural and without any side effect but it requires some disciplines from your side. If you are keen to try the all-natural self-help methods of dealing with acid reflux, we recommend you to check out the following two books:

1. Heartburn No More.
   
   
2. Stop Acid Reflux Now.