Obesity contributes to many health problems, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. However, one condition -- gastroesophageal reflux disease -- stands out in its ties to obesity, say the authors of a new study. In the largest and most scientifically rigorous study to date, researchers at the University of Southern California were able to calculate that the effect of obesity on GERD is 13%.
"Everyone knows that blood pressure and cholesterol levels are related to obesity, but the strength of the relationship with GERD is every bit as strong or perhaps even stronger," the authors of the study, Dr. Shahin Ayazi and Dr. Peter Crookes, told The Times. The study is published in this month's issue of the Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.
As obesity rates have risen in the United States, so has GERD. One study suggested that GERD incidence increased 5% annually between 1992 and 2005. Almost 1 in 5 people have the disease. The volume and fat content of diet is linked to esophageal acid exposure as is high-calorie diets. The same dietary habits promote both obesity and GERD, the authors say.
The study was conducted by examining almost 2,000 patients with GERD over 10 years. Researchers measured the amount of acid in the esophagus and used a probe to check the strength of the valve in the lower esophagus that normally protects against acid reflux. They were able to relate those measurements to the height and weight of their patients.
The bad news about the study is that losing weight won't necessarily help with GERD unless someone is in the early stages of GERD and has mild reflux.
"Heavier people have more reflux, and they have more damage to the lower esophageal sphincter," the authors said. "If you don't have a good sphincter, then you are likely to get worse reflux ... The sphincter is a muscle and in most parts of the body, when the muscle is damaged, it does not return."
Of course, there are treatments for GERD. But the strongest message from this study is one for obesity prevention.
-- Shari Roan
source:http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/booster_shots/2009/08/heartburn-obesity-gerd.html
Friday, August 14, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Planning The Ideal Acid Reflux Disease Diet
Getting on a proper diet plan is one of the best ways to help prevent acid reflux and heartburn. This is also a great way to generally get into better shape, as the diet you plan can affect you in many different ways beyond simply just preventing your acid reflux. The acid reflux disease diet that you choose can be very important as to the rest of your life, giving you the great opportunity to prevent all sorts of other digestive problems that may be related to acid reflux and keeping you in better, general shape. This proves that there is more than one good reason to start an acid reflux disease diet.
This diet involves cutting out a lot of foods that aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux. Foods with a lot of spice or pepper in them are generally discouraged from the list, as are fruits and vegetables that are especially gassy. These foods do nothing but rip and tear at the digestive system in terms of acid reflux, making them a very unwelcome addition to the acid reflux disease diet. The unfortunate thing is that you may, in fact, be cutting out some rather healthy options for the rest of your overall balanced health, but these can be replaced with the right supplements and additional nutrients from other sources.
Cutting, Picking, And Choosing
As you pick what foods you are going to drop from your regular diet, you should replace them with a suitable alternative so that your body does not create other problems because of a lack of a certain vitamin or nutritional entity. Always consult a medical professional before going on any sort of serious diet as it could seriously impact your health if you make the wrong choices. You should always have your health in mind, first and foremost, even before discomfort and other painful problems. Your acid reflux disease diet is important but it must not rob the body of proper nutrition.
You need to be quite selective in terms of what you will cut out because any sort of improper impact to the makeup of your body's nutrition could end up causing you far worse problems than acid reflux. This, unfortunately, is a part of creating a diet that can cut away some of the vital nutrients of an overall healthy eating plan. To create the best acid reflux disease diet, you should ensure that you always replace something you have taken out with a suitable alternative and always consult a dietician or a doctor for more help if you are unsure of what to do.
source: http://acidrefluxsymptomstips.blogspot.com/2008/07/planning-ideal-acid-reflux-disease-diet.html
This diet involves cutting out a lot of foods that aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux. Foods with a lot of spice or pepper in them are generally discouraged from the list, as are fruits and vegetables that are especially gassy. These foods do nothing but rip and tear at the digestive system in terms of acid reflux, making them a very unwelcome addition to the acid reflux disease diet. The unfortunate thing is that you may, in fact, be cutting out some rather healthy options for the rest of your overall balanced health, but these can be replaced with the right supplements and additional nutrients from other sources.
Cutting, Picking, And Choosing
As you pick what foods you are going to drop from your regular diet, you should replace them with a suitable alternative so that your body does not create other problems because of a lack of a certain vitamin or nutritional entity. Always consult a medical professional before going on any sort of serious diet as it could seriously impact your health if you make the wrong choices. You should always have your health in mind, first and foremost, even before discomfort and other painful problems. Your acid reflux disease diet is important but it must not rob the body of proper nutrition.
You need to be quite selective in terms of what you will cut out because any sort of improper impact to the makeup of your body's nutrition could end up causing you far worse problems than acid reflux. This, unfortunately, is a part of creating a diet that can cut away some of the vital nutrients of an overall healthy eating plan. To create the best acid reflux disease diet, you should ensure that you always replace something you have taken out with a suitable alternative and always consult a dietician or a doctor for more help if you are unsure of what to do.
source: http://acidrefluxsymptomstips.blogspot.com/2008/07/planning-ideal-acid-reflux-disease-diet.html
Monday, May 25, 2009
GERD (Acid Reflux) Found in Babies as Young as One Day Old
GERD (acid reflux) is something I know about – I’ve been taking Prevacid for the last few years to control this reaction. Then I read Melinda Beck’s July 22nd Health Journal in The Wall Street Journal titled “Baby crying? Doctors Say It May Be Acid-Reflux Disease.”
Here’s the first paragraph of this article:
Oliva Manganello was 1 month old when she started screaming, usually right after she nursed. Her family tried switching to formula, then different formulas, but nothing helped. Finally a pediatric gastroenterologist diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and put Olivia on Pepcid. “In two days, she was a completely different baby,” says her mother, Trina Chiara of Avon, Conn.
When my mother read this article, her response was to wonder which of her grandchildren who cried all the time for the first few months might have had GERD.
My husband accuses me of practicing medicine without a license. But I believe it’s important, as a do-gooder Scrooge, to know about common but often undiagnosed medical conditions in order to help others.
For example, my older daughter called me from college when she worked part-time as an aide in a elementary school classroom to ask for information on allergies and asthma. My daughter could tell that a child in the class was suffering and that the mother was clueless – she needed resources to learn about her child’s medical issues. (If you need allergy and asthma resources, check out www.aanma.org.)
And that’s why I’m blogging about this topic today. (I actually woke up in the middle of the night and thought: “I haven’t shared that info yet.”)
Apparently there’s a disagreement as to whether babies are being overdiagnosed or underdiagnosed with GERD. Regardless of this, if you suspect GERD in a baby you know who cries every day for hours and hours, gently suggest to the parent that this condition be evaluated by a doctor trained to recognize it in infants and young children.
For more information, go to www.reflux.org, the website of the Pediatric/Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association (PAGER).
If a medical solution is found for a baby’s incessant crying, the baby as well as the parents and entire family will probably be forever grateful to you for their regained calm and sleep.
source: http://www.communati.com/pzmiller/gerd-acid-reflux-found-babies-young-one-day-old
Here’s the first paragraph of this article:
Oliva Manganello was 1 month old when she started screaming, usually right after she nursed. Her family tried switching to formula, then different formulas, but nothing helped. Finally a pediatric gastroenterologist diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and put Olivia on Pepcid. “In two days, she was a completely different baby,” says her mother, Trina Chiara of Avon, Conn.
When my mother read this article, her response was to wonder which of her grandchildren who cried all the time for the first few months might have had GERD.
My husband accuses me of practicing medicine without a license. But I believe it’s important, as a do-gooder Scrooge, to know about common but often undiagnosed medical conditions in order to help others.
For example, my older daughter called me from college when she worked part-time as an aide in a elementary school classroom to ask for information on allergies and asthma. My daughter could tell that a child in the class was suffering and that the mother was clueless – she needed resources to learn about her child’s medical issues. (If you need allergy and asthma resources, check out www.aanma.org.)
And that’s why I’m blogging about this topic today. (I actually woke up in the middle of the night and thought: “I haven’t shared that info yet.”)
Apparently there’s a disagreement as to whether babies are being overdiagnosed or underdiagnosed with GERD. Regardless of this, if you suspect GERD in a baby you know who cries every day for hours and hours, gently suggest to the parent that this condition be evaluated by a doctor trained to recognize it in infants and young children.
For more information, go to www.reflux.org, the website of the Pediatric/Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association (PAGER).
If a medical solution is found for a baby’s incessant crying, the baby as well as the parents and entire family will probably be forever grateful to you for their regained calm and sleep.
source: http://www.communati.com/pzmiller/gerd-acid-reflux-found-babies-young-one-day-old
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Link Found Between Asthma and GERD
By Jennifer Warner
WebMD Health News
Chronic heartburn may alter the immune system and raise the risk of asthma, according to a new study that helps explain why so many people with asthma also suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD).
Researchers say the link between asthma and GERD has been a mystery for years. Previous studies have shown that 50%-90% of people with asthma also suffer from gastric reflux, but until now the relationship between the two conditions was unclear.
The study shows that inhaling small amounts of stomach acid back up into the esophagus and lungs, a hallmark of GERD, slowly produces changes in the immune system that may lead to the development of asthma.
"This does not mean that everyone with GERD is going to develop asthma, by any means," researcher William Parker, assistant professor of surgery at Duke University Medical Center, says in a news release. "But it may mean that people with GERD may be more likely to develop asthma. If there is an upside to this, it is that developing GERD is something we can pretty much treat and control."
Asthma-GERD Link Explained
In the study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers mimicked the effects of GERD in laboratory mice by inserting small amounts of gastric fluid into their lungs for eight weeks. They then compared how the immune systems of these mice responded to exposure to allergens, a key factor in the development of asthma, to the immune response of normal, healthy mice.
The results showed that the GERD mice responded very differently to allergens. Specifically, they developed an immune response similar to that found in people with asthma by releasing a specific type of infection-fighting T-cell. Healthy mice responded in a more balanced manner releasing two types of immune cells.
Researchers say rising rates of reflux and GERD may be driving increasing rates of asthma, but many of the risk factors behind this phenomenon may be modifiable.
They say people who already have GERD can minimize gastric reflux and reduce their risk of developing asthma by following these tips:
Eat smaller meals
Eat several hours before going to bed
Raise the head of the bed a few inches
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit fatty foods, coffee, tea, caffeine, and alcohol because they can relax the esophageal sphincter and make reflux more likely.
"People should avoid the risk factors for GERD. We strongly believe that the rise in asthma, particularly among adults in the country, is in large measure due to lifestyle choices that can be changed," Parker says.
source: http://www.webmd.com/asthma/news/20080725/link-found-between-asthma-and-gerd
WebMD Health News
Chronic heartburn may alter the immune system and raise the risk of asthma, according to a new study that helps explain why so many people with asthma also suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD).
Researchers say the link between asthma and GERD has been a mystery for years. Previous studies have shown that 50%-90% of people with asthma also suffer from gastric reflux, but until now the relationship between the two conditions was unclear.
The study shows that inhaling small amounts of stomach acid back up into the esophagus and lungs, a hallmark of GERD, slowly produces changes in the immune system that may lead to the development of asthma.
"This does not mean that everyone with GERD is going to develop asthma, by any means," researcher William Parker, assistant professor of surgery at Duke University Medical Center, says in a news release. "But it may mean that people with GERD may be more likely to develop asthma. If there is an upside to this, it is that developing GERD is something we can pretty much treat and control."
Asthma-GERD Link Explained
In the study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers mimicked the effects of GERD in laboratory mice by inserting small amounts of gastric fluid into their lungs for eight weeks. They then compared how the immune systems of these mice responded to exposure to allergens, a key factor in the development of asthma, to the immune response of normal, healthy mice.
The results showed that the GERD mice responded very differently to allergens. Specifically, they developed an immune response similar to that found in people with asthma by releasing a specific type of infection-fighting T-cell. Healthy mice responded in a more balanced manner releasing two types of immune cells.
Researchers say rising rates of reflux and GERD may be driving increasing rates of asthma, but many of the risk factors behind this phenomenon may be modifiable.
They say people who already have GERD can minimize gastric reflux and reduce their risk of developing asthma by following these tips:
Eat smaller meals
Eat several hours before going to bed
Raise the head of the bed a few inches
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit fatty foods, coffee, tea, caffeine, and alcohol because they can relax the esophageal sphincter and make reflux more likely.
"People should avoid the risk factors for GERD. We strongly believe that the rise in asthma, particularly among adults in the country, is in large measure due to lifestyle choices that can be changed," Parker says.
source: http://www.webmd.com/asthma/news/20080725/link-found-between-asthma-and-gerd
Monday, May 18, 2009
Acid Reflux Disease: Its Symptoms & Diagnosis
By Frank Robson
Though it is true that acid reflux has specific characteristics, some physicians choose to run a series of tests to determine the possibly natural source of the problem. If a change in lifestyle and diet does not resolve the problem, your doctor may decide to perform one of the procedures explained herein to determine the root cause.
These procedures would be classified as invasive because they require placing a tube into your esophagus in order to gather information.
The 24-Hour Esophageal Ph Test, and the 48-Hour Bravo Esophageal pH test, recommended by the Cleveland Clinic Foundation involve the insertion of a tube through your nose that is pushed way down so as to be near the Esophageal Sphincter muscle, the kingpin in this Acid Reflux Saga. .
A thin, small tube with an acid sensing device on the tip is gently passed through your nose, down the esophagus ("food tube"), and positioned about 2 inches above the lower esophageal sphincter. The tube is attached to the side of your face with clear tape. The end of the tube exiting from your nose is attached to a portable recorder that is worn on your belt or over your shoulder. The recorder has several buttons on it that you press to mark certain observations.
What happens is that you follow certain food and medication restrictions from a week prior to your test. During the 24-hour test, you avoid showers; record your mealtimes, and meal contents, as well as your rest periods, when you lie down. There are certain buttons to be pressed on the recorder mechanism, in case you have certain symptoms, After 24 hours, the nurse removes this contraption, and the information is downloaded onto a computer that allows the doctor to review the situation and plan your treatment.
The Esophageal Manometry Test takes less time. It is performed by placing a small tube that is sensitive to pressure into the oral or nasal cavity and into your esophagus. This device calculates the assistance given to the digestive process by the esophagus by reading the intensity of the contractions of the muscles therein.
X-ray and Endoscopic procedures help in uncovering possible blockages that may hinder the digestion process. These procedures make use of a scope which allows for internal observation.
Once the doctor has confirmed that there is no physiological cause of your Acid Reflux, like narrowing of the food pipe, scarring of the food pipe, or an undefined suspicious growth where one should not exist, it is time to start thinking of medications and long-term lifestyle issues.
source: http://healthylifestyle1.blogspot.com/2008/07/acid-reflux-disease-its-symptoms.html
Though it is true that acid reflux has specific characteristics, some physicians choose to run a series of tests to determine the possibly natural source of the problem. If a change in lifestyle and diet does not resolve the problem, your doctor may decide to perform one of the procedures explained herein to determine the root cause.
These procedures would be classified as invasive because they require placing a tube into your esophagus in order to gather information.
The 24-Hour Esophageal Ph Test, and the 48-Hour Bravo Esophageal pH test, recommended by the Cleveland Clinic Foundation involve the insertion of a tube through your nose that is pushed way down so as to be near the Esophageal Sphincter muscle, the kingpin in this Acid Reflux Saga. .
A thin, small tube with an acid sensing device on the tip is gently passed through your nose, down the esophagus ("food tube"), and positioned about 2 inches above the lower esophageal sphincter. The tube is attached to the side of your face with clear tape. The end of the tube exiting from your nose is attached to a portable recorder that is worn on your belt or over your shoulder. The recorder has several buttons on it that you press to mark certain observations.
What happens is that you follow certain food and medication restrictions from a week prior to your test. During the 24-hour test, you avoid showers; record your mealtimes, and meal contents, as well as your rest periods, when you lie down. There are certain buttons to be pressed on the recorder mechanism, in case you have certain symptoms, After 24 hours, the nurse removes this contraption, and the information is downloaded onto a computer that allows the doctor to review the situation and plan your treatment.
The Esophageal Manometry Test takes less time. It is performed by placing a small tube that is sensitive to pressure into the oral or nasal cavity and into your esophagus. This device calculates the assistance given to the digestive process by the esophagus by reading the intensity of the contractions of the muscles therein.
X-ray and Endoscopic procedures help in uncovering possible blockages that may hinder the digestion process. These procedures make use of a scope which allows for internal observation.
Once the doctor has confirmed that there is no physiological cause of your Acid Reflux, like narrowing of the food pipe, scarring of the food pipe, or an undefined suspicious growth where one should not exist, it is time to start thinking of medications and long-term lifestyle issues.
source: http://healthylifestyle1.blogspot.com/2008/07/acid-reflux-disease-its-symptoms.html
Friday, May 15, 2009
Heartburn and What Causes Heartburn - Another 4 Useful Hints
Heartburn and What Causes Heartburn - Another 4 Useful Hints
When searching for heartburn and what causes heartburn information online, I happened to find some tips - 4 of them, in fact.
I hope that you find them useful…as it’s taken our researchers some time to find them all!
Nevertheless, it’s worth the effort - especially where heartburn is concerned, as there is a lot of great stuff out there on the Internet.
Tip #1
Keep a food diary to track everything you eat and drink if you suffer from acid reflux as diet plays a part in generating stomach acid, and if the acid levels are managed and kept low then you are less likely to experience the reflux.
Tip #2
Keep a food diary to track everything you eat and drink if you suffer from acid reflux as diet plays a part in generating stomach acid, and if the acid levels are managed and kept low then you are less likely to experience the reflux.
Tip #3
When the muscle that is supposed to prevent stomach acid from escaping up into the esophagus gets to weak to do its job and the acid keeps on gushing back to the esophagus, that is called acid reflux. It is a lot like heart burn but a lot more uncomfortable as generally there is much more acids and pepsins pushing back to the esophagus.
Tip #4
To relieve the burning sensations caused by acid reflux, you can use antacids as a short term relief, even though they don’t offer much long term relief.
Well…that’s enough tips for now. I’m sure 4 is enough to be getting along with!
I hope that you found these Heartburn and What Causes Heartburn resources useful, they certainly helped me!
source: http://www.eyphlo.com/health/heartburn-and-what-causes-heartburn-another-4-useful-hints/
When searching for heartburn and what causes heartburn information online, I happened to find some tips - 4 of them, in fact.
I hope that you find them useful…as it’s taken our researchers some time to find them all!
Nevertheless, it’s worth the effort - especially where heartburn is concerned, as there is a lot of great stuff out there on the Internet.
Tip #1
Keep a food diary to track everything you eat and drink if you suffer from acid reflux as diet plays a part in generating stomach acid, and if the acid levels are managed and kept low then you are less likely to experience the reflux.
Tip #2
Keep a food diary to track everything you eat and drink if you suffer from acid reflux as diet plays a part in generating stomach acid, and if the acid levels are managed and kept low then you are less likely to experience the reflux.
Tip #3
When the muscle that is supposed to prevent stomach acid from escaping up into the esophagus gets to weak to do its job and the acid keeps on gushing back to the esophagus, that is called acid reflux. It is a lot like heart burn but a lot more uncomfortable as generally there is much more acids and pepsins pushing back to the esophagus.
Tip #4
To relieve the burning sensations caused by acid reflux, you can use antacids as a short term relief, even though they don’t offer much long term relief.
Well…that’s enough tips for now. I’m sure 4 is enough to be getting along with!
I hope that you found these Heartburn and What Causes Heartburn resources useful, they certainly helped me!
source: http://www.eyphlo.com/health/heartburn-and-what-causes-heartburn-another-4-useful-hints/
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Tips for Digestive Distress
Posted By PENNY FORRESTER
Have you eaten a large meal at one time or often only to end up with an upset stomach? The occasional bout of heartburn or excessive gas isn't something of great concern, but when it happens frequently, it's time to stop and take notice. Some common symptoms of digestive distress includes a burning sensation in the stomach, abdominal pain, bloating or feeling full, belching or gas, nausea or vomiting, acidic taste in the mouth or a growling or gurgling stomach.
You're not doomed to suffer from digestive distress for the rest of your life. In addition to your doctor's advice, the following dietary and lifestyle
changes can help prevent and control heartburn, indigestion, GERD, and ulcers by decreasing gastric secretions and minimizing regurgitation.
Although every person reacts to foods differently, it's a good idea to narrow the foods that might cause problems. Here are some of the most common foods and beverages known to cause irritation and spasms; alcohol, carbonated beverages, chocolate and cocoa, creamed based sauces, high fat foods, salad dressings, spicy foods, vinegar, tomatoes and tomato products, fried foods, fatty meats, coffee, citrus fruits and juices, onions, pastries, gravy, garlic and nuts.
Planning your meals and meal times can help prevent heartburn and other digestive disturbances such as; eating smaller, more frequent meals that are higher in protein (protein helps keep acid levels more consistent). Drink fluids between meals, but limit beverages during meals since they may cause bloating. Avoid stressful situations at mealtimes. Eat in a calm, relaxed atmosphere making sure to eat slowly and chew your food completely. Attain and maintain a desirable weight. Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen and internal organs and can lead to digestive problems. Stop eating several hours before bedtime. If you lie down or fall asleep soon after eating, you're more likely to suffer acid reflux.
Try these lifestyle tips that may help prevent digestive distress; wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing. Elevate the head of your bed while sleeping. Ask your doctor about antacids. Don't exercise on a full stomach, wait at least one hour to prevent exercise-induced heartburn.
source: http://www.intelligencer.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1125587
Have you eaten a large meal at one time or often only to end up with an upset stomach? The occasional bout of heartburn or excessive gas isn't something of great concern, but when it happens frequently, it's time to stop and take notice. Some common symptoms of digestive distress includes a burning sensation in the stomach, abdominal pain, bloating or feeling full, belching or gas, nausea or vomiting, acidic taste in the mouth or a growling or gurgling stomach.
You're not doomed to suffer from digestive distress for the rest of your life. In addition to your doctor's advice, the following dietary and lifestyle
changes can help prevent and control heartburn, indigestion, GERD, and ulcers by decreasing gastric secretions and minimizing regurgitation.
Although every person reacts to foods differently, it's a good idea to narrow the foods that might cause problems. Here are some of the most common foods and beverages known to cause irritation and spasms; alcohol, carbonated beverages, chocolate and cocoa, creamed based sauces, high fat foods, salad dressings, spicy foods, vinegar, tomatoes and tomato products, fried foods, fatty meats, coffee, citrus fruits and juices, onions, pastries, gravy, garlic and nuts.
Planning your meals and meal times can help prevent heartburn and other digestive disturbances such as; eating smaller, more frequent meals that are higher in protein (protein helps keep acid levels more consistent). Drink fluids between meals, but limit beverages during meals since they may cause bloating. Avoid stressful situations at mealtimes. Eat in a calm, relaxed atmosphere making sure to eat slowly and chew your food completely. Attain and maintain a desirable weight. Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen and internal organs and can lead to digestive problems. Stop eating several hours before bedtime. If you lie down or fall asleep soon after eating, you're more likely to suffer acid reflux.
Try these lifestyle tips that may help prevent digestive distress; wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing. Elevate the head of your bed while sleeping. Ask your doctor about antacids. Don't exercise on a full stomach, wait at least one hour to prevent exercise-induced heartburn.
source: http://www.intelligencer.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1125587
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Vinegar GERD
Vinegar GERD - If you are searching for a natural, totally home remedy to treat your GERD, you can try the vinegar GERD approach. There are a lot of prescription and over-the-counter medications for GERD, but there are also associated side effects of most types of medications. The high cost of these medications also make them unappealing options for sufferers of acid reflux disease. That results in a different therapy like vinegar and GERD.
Why Vinegar and GERD Work?
One type of vinegar that works very well in relieving GERD symtoms is apple cider vinegar. You can find a lot of successful results on nearly any GERD discussion board in the internet. However, there seems to be no apparent reason why vinegar GERD should be associated in any constructive manner. Vinegar is acidic and if it is added to the stomach, it should complicate GERD symptoms rather than improve the situation.
source: http://acid-reflux-tips.blogspot.com/2008/07/vinegar-gerd.html
Why Vinegar and GERD Work?
One type of vinegar that works very well in relieving GERD symtoms is apple cider vinegar. You can find a lot of successful results on nearly any GERD discussion board in the internet. However, there seems to be no apparent reason why vinegar GERD should be associated in any constructive manner. Vinegar is acidic and if it is added to the stomach, it should complicate GERD symptoms rather than improve the situation.
source: http://acid-reflux-tips.blogspot.com/2008/07/vinegar-gerd.html
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Diet for Heartburn Part 2
Cut Down On Fatty and Spicy Food
Fried or very fatty foods, including candy, encourage indigestion and should be avoided or eaten sparingly. So go easy on butter, mayo, sausages, salami, pate, meat pies, and full-fat cheese. The same applies to very spicy food such as: black pepper, chili peppers, curry, mustard and other hot spices, as well as raw onions and garlic.
Avoid Carbonated Drinks
Fizzy or carbonated soft drinks cause belching and upward pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), increasing the likelihood of heartburn. The best drinks include: water, herbal teas or diluted non-citrus fruit juices. Please also note that some soft drinks (eg. cocoa, coffee, orange juice) are not helpful for heartburn as they can over-relax the LES, thus encouraging the backward flow of acid from the stomach.
Eat More Fiber, Especially Soluble Fiber
Constipation can lead to extra strain on abdominal muscles and increase the risk of heartburn. To prevent constipation, eat more high-fiber foods such as: oats, apples, pears, dried apricots and vegetables. When increasing fiber intake it’s also important to increase your water intake by at least 40 fl oz a day.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is not helpful to heartburn for several reasons. So take steps to reduce your intake to one unit a day, or avoid it altogether. Alcohol is also a source of non-nutritious calories and can contribute to overweight.
Other Digestive Tips
For digestive disorders like heartburn, some dietitians and alternative health experts recommend patients to eat (or cook with) digestion-friendly aromatic herbs like basil, camomile, caraway, dill, fennel, rosemary and thyme. They also recommend that you end each meal with a glass of herbal tea (eg. camomile, fennel) to reduce acidity and wind.
Lifestyle Improvements To Reduce Heartburn
There are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. One obvious one is to stop smoking, as tobacco smoke increases acidity in the stomach. Other recommended changes include:
Avoid placing extra strain on your abdomen or chest. Wear loose-fitting clothes, and do not overstretch or lift heavy weights.
Do not lie down after eating, and try not to eat anything for at least three hours before going to bed. The less there is in your stomach when you come to lie down, the lower the risk of heartburn.
To minimize night-time discomfort, raise the head end of your bed by about 3 inches by using bed-blocks or by placing a solid object under the bed-legs. This helps to prevent stomach acid from leaking backwards into the esophagus. Do not use extra pillows - you simply end up with a stiff neck as well as heartburn!
Heartburn symptoms can be caused by certain over-the-counter drugs, such as aspirin, or other pain-killers or anti-inflammatories. So if you take this type of medication regularly, check with your doctor or pharmacist that it’s safe to continue.
Linda Smith B.Sc., RD, aged 51, is a qualified dietitian and nutritional consultant. She is part of the editorial team at Diet-i.com which provides a range of information about diet, nutrition and weight management to more than 5 million visitors per year.
source:http://delicious-diet.com/2009/04/19/diet-for-heartburn/
Fried or very fatty foods, including candy, encourage indigestion and should be avoided or eaten sparingly. So go easy on butter, mayo, sausages, salami, pate, meat pies, and full-fat cheese. The same applies to very spicy food such as: black pepper, chili peppers, curry, mustard and other hot spices, as well as raw onions and garlic.
Avoid Carbonated Drinks
Fizzy or carbonated soft drinks cause belching and upward pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), increasing the likelihood of heartburn. The best drinks include: water, herbal teas or diluted non-citrus fruit juices. Please also note that some soft drinks (eg. cocoa, coffee, orange juice) are not helpful for heartburn as they can over-relax the LES, thus encouraging the backward flow of acid from the stomach.
Eat More Fiber, Especially Soluble Fiber
Constipation can lead to extra strain on abdominal muscles and increase the risk of heartburn. To prevent constipation, eat more high-fiber foods such as: oats, apples, pears, dried apricots and vegetables. When increasing fiber intake it’s also important to increase your water intake by at least 40 fl oz a day.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is not helpful to heartburn for several reasons. So take steps to reduce your intake to one unit a day, or avoid it altogether. Alcohol is also a source of non-nutritious calories and can contribute to overweight.
Other Digestive Tips
For digestive disorders like heartburn, some dietitians and alternative health experts recommend patients to eat (or cook with) digestion-friendly aromatic herbs like basil, camomile, caraway, dill, fennel, rosemary and thyme. They also recommend that you end each meal with a glass of herbal tea (eg. camomile, fennel) to reduce acidity and wind.
Lifestyle Improvements To Reduce Heartburn
There are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. One obvious one is to stop smoking, as tobacco smoke increases acidity in the stomach. Other recommended changes include:
Avoid placing extra strain on your abdomen or chest. Wear loose-fitting clothes, and do not overstretch or lift heavy weights.
Do not lie down after eating, and try not to eat anything for at least three hours before going to bed. The less there is in your stomach when you come to lie down, the lower the risk of heartburn.
To minimize night-time discomfort, raise the head end of your bed by about 3 inches by using bed-blocks or by placing a solid object under the bed-legs. This helps to prevent stomach acid from leaking backwards into the esophagus. Do not use extra pillows - you simply end up with a stiff neck as well as heartburn!
Heartburn symptoms can be caused by certain over-the-counter drugs, such as aspirin, or other pain-killers or anti-inflammatories. So if you take this type of medication regularly, check with your doctor or pharmacist that it’s safe to continue.
Linda Smith B.Sc., RD, aged 51, is a qualified dietitian and nutritional consultant. She is part of the editorial team at Diet-i.com which provides a range of information about diet, nutrition and weight management to more than 5 million visitors per year.
source:http://delicious-diet.com/2009/04/19/diet-for-heartburn/
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Diet for Heartburn Part 1
Heartburn is a common digestive complaint which affects an estimated 15 million Americans every day, and 60 million once a month. Relief of mild heartburn is typically achieved through diet and lifestyle changes, although medication (eg. antacids) is usually necessary if the heartburn is caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What is Heartburn? What Are The Symptoms?
Heartburn is a digestive problem: it has nothing to do with your heart. It occurs when small amounts of stomach acid accidentally rise up the esophagus (the food canal running from the mouth to the stomach) causing symptoms like a burning pain in the chest which rises towards the throat. Sufferers may even taste the fluid in the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion. In many cases the pain and burning sensation is relatively mild, but sometimes is so severe that patients think they are experiencing a heart attack.
What Are The Causes Of Heartburn?
In general, the immediate cause of heartburn is the acidic digestive juices which leave the stomach and rise up the esophagus. The acid burns the tissue of the esophagus causing inflammation and pain - a condition called esophagitis. Heartburn may also occur in pregnancy when the baby is pressing up against the underside of the diaphragm and squeezing the stomach. An occasional episode of acid-regurgitation or indigestion is quite normal. But persistent heartburn (eg. twice a week), is usually a sign of something more serious. The two most common underlying causes of heartburn symptoms are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and hiatal hernia.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
GERD is characterized by a failure of the muscular valve, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is located at the bottom of the esophagus. The function of this valve is to keep acid in the stomach and prevent it leaking back up the esophagus. When this valve doesn’t work properly, reflux (leak-back) and heartburn can occur. Factors that contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease include obesity, pregnancy, smoking and, in particular, hiatal hernia.
Hiatal Hernia
Hiatus or hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach herniates (protrudes) upwards into the chest through the hiatus (opening) in the diaphragm normally only occupied by the esophagus. This puts extra pressure on the LES valve preventing it from closing properly. As a result, stomach acid leaks into the esophagus causing heartburn. The underlying cause of hiatal hernia is unknown. Contributory factors include: obesity, pregnancy, constipation, abdominal muscle strain, and smoking.
Dietary Treatment For Heartburn
In cases of persistent heartburn, dietary improvements are not sufficient. So as well as advocating a digestion-friendly diet, your doctor is likely to recommend one or more of the following types of medication. Antacids to neutralize the acid in your stomach; H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production; or prokinetics to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and expedite stomach-emptying. However, if heartburn symptoms are mild and occur only from time to time, usually you will be advised to make the following changes to your diet.
If Overweight, Switch To A Healthy Weight Loss Diet
Obesity, especially excess fat on the chest and abdomen, is a common contributory factor to GERD and hiatal hernia, and therefore to heartburn. So if you are obese (BMI > 30), take steps to normalize your weight and thus reduce your risk or symptoms of heartburn. Choose a healthy calorie-controlled diet and customize it by following the eating tips below.
Stop Eating Large Meals
A big meal distends the stomach and causes a rise in the production of stomach acid. Both these factors lead to an increased risk of heartburn. So opt for 4-6 small meals or snacks, and allow a maximum of 3 hours between eating. In addition, choose foods that are “easier on the stomach” and more more easily digested.
Avoid Acidic Food
Reduce your intake of very acidic foods by avoiding items such as: tomatoes, tomato-based sauces, citrus fruits, rhubarb, gooseberries, unripe fruit, vinegar and acidic pickles or relishes.
source: source:http://delicious-diet.com/2009/04/19/diet-for-heartburn/
What is Heartburn? What Are The Symptoms?
Heartburn is a digestive problem: it has nothing to do with your heart. It occurs when small amounts of stomach acid accidentally rise up the esophagus (the food canal running from the mouth to the stomach) causing symptoms like a burning pain in the chest which rises towards the throat. Sufferers may even taste the fluid in the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion. In many cases the pain and burning sensation is relatively mild, but sometimes is so severe that patients think they are experiencing a heart attack.
What Are The Causes Of Heartburn?
In general, the immediate cause of heartburn is the acidic digestive juices which leave the stomach and rise up the esophagus. The acid burns the tissue of the esophagus causing inflammation and pain - a condition called esophagitis. Heartburn may also occur in pregnancy when the baby is pressing up against the underside of the diaphragm and squeezing the stomach. An occasional episode of acid-regurgitation or indigestion is quite normal. But persistent heartburn (eg. twice a week), is usually a sign of something more serious. The two most common underlying causes of heartburn symptoms are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and hiatal hernia.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
GERD is characterized by a failure of the muscular valve, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is located at the bottom of the esophagus. The function of this valve is to keep acid in the stomach and prevent it leaking back up the esophagus. When this valve doesn’t work properly, reflux (leak-back) and heartburn can occur. Factors that contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease include obesity, pregnancy, smoking and, in particular, hiatal hernia.
Hiatal Hernia
Hiatus or hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach herniates (protrudes) upwards into the chest through the hiatus (opening) in the diaphragm normally only occupied by the esophagus. This puts extra pressure on the LES valve preventing it from closing properly. As a result, stomach acid leaks into the esophagus causing heartburn. The underlying cause of hiatal hernia is unknown. Contributory factors include: obesity, pregnancy, constipation, abdominal muscle strain, and smoking.
Dietary Treatment For Heartburn
In cases of persistent heartburn, dietary improvements are not sufficient. So as well as advocating a digestion-friendly diet, your doctor is likely to recommend one or more of the following types of medication. Antacids to neutralize the acid in your stomach; H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production; or prokinetics to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and expedite stomach-emptying. However, if heartburn symptoms are mild and occur only from time to time, usually you will be advised to make the following changes to your diet.
If Overweight, Switch To A Healthy Weight Loss Diet
Obesity, especially excess fat on the chest and abdomen, is a common contributory factor to GERD and hiatal hernia, and therefore to heartburn. So if you are obese (BMI > 30), take steps to normalize your weight and thus reduce your risk or symptoms of heartburn. Choose a healthy calorie-controlled diet and customize it by following the eating tips below.
Stop Eating Large Meals
A big meal distends the stomach and causes a rise in the production of stomach acid. Both these factors lead to an increased risk of heartburn. So opt for 4-6 small meals or snacks, and allow a maximum of 3 hours between eating. In addition, choose foods that are “easier on the stomach” and more more easily digested.
Avoid Acidic Food
Reduce your intake of very acidic foods by avoiding items such as: tomatoes, tomato-based sauces, citrus fruits, rhubarb, gooseberries, unripe fruit, vinegar and acidic pickles or relishes.
source: source:http://delicious-diet.com/2009/04/19/diet-for-heartburn/
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Acid Reflux Bland Diet
When it comes to eating an acid reflux bland diet, keep in mind that everyone can react differently to certain foods.
Although some foods will be less likely to cause problems than others, it is a good idea to keep track of which types of food seem to be triggering your heartburn symptoms and simply avoid them.
For me, foods that are high in fat (such as take out food) cause my heartburn problems.
I have learned to minimize these foods and to especially try to stay away from them late at night; as that is when my acid reflux problems are the worst.
There have been times when I’ve allowed myself to have a “cheat meal” on a weekend night; pizza or a burger with fries or something like that. It is usually on these nights that I am woken up by the dreaded reflux reaching my throat and sending me into a coughing fit that can last a good ½ hour or so.
So what do I do? I listen to my body and try to stay away from late night junk food binges. Sure I’ll still have a treat every once in a while… but it won’t be late at night.
I think if some people with acid reflux diet problems would simply listen to their bodies, and act accordingly… they would likely receive less acid reflux attacks. Again, this can vary between individuals and a more rigorous treatment may need to be discussed with your doctor.
So which foods is more digestion friendly to those with bad heartburn?
Again, everyone has different reactions to certain foods, so bear that in mind when you look at MY anti acid reflux diet below.
Here is what I eat to help control my GERD symptoms. This type of diet also works well with the weight training that I do, as I need my protein intake a little higher than most people might.
To me, this does not taste too much like an acid reflux bland diet... but it did take a couple of weeks of getting used to eating this way when I first started.
Meal 1
- 1/2 cup large flake oatmeal (not the instant stuff)
- small banana
- 6 egg whites prepared on the side
- water
Meal 2
- sliced chicken breast on whole wheat or whole grain bread
- a little fat free mayo
- small apple
- small salad (no tomatoes - too much acid) with low fat dressing
- water
Meal 3
- flank steak, chicken breast or very lean pork
- boiled carrots, cabbage or greens beans
- backed potato or yam
- water
NOW HERE'S MY TRICK!
Because I need a little more protein from meat in my diet, I'll have a 4th meal about 1 to 1-1/2 hours before bedtime.
What I have learned to really help keep my heartburn under control, is to avoid having any more starchy carbohydrates (i.e. bread, potatoes, cereal, etc.) after my 3rd meal above (which is usually at 6pm).
By sticking with eating a piece of chicken breast and maybe some green beans for my last meal, I have found that I do not get acid reflux at night, nor am I woken up from severe heartburn.
If I was to only eat 3 meals a day, I would probably have my last meal (#3 above) about 3 hours before going to bed. This will give me plenty of time to make sure my food is properly digested and the stomach acid does not “backup” my esophagus and into my throat while I’m trying to sleep.
I’m sure some of you probably have more severe GERD problems than I do, and if so, I encourage you to talk with your health care professional about developing an acid reflux bland diet that works specifically for you.
by Joe
source: http://acid-reflux-diet-help.blogspot.com/2009_03_01_archive.html
Although some foods will be less likely to cause problems than others, it is a good idea to keep track of which types of food seem to be triggering your heartburn symptoms and simply avoid them.
For me, foods that are high in fat (such as take out food) cause my heartburn problems.
I have learned to minimize these foods and to especially try to stay away from them late at night; as that is when my acid reflux problems are the worst.
There have been times when I’ve allowed myself to have a “cheat meal” on a weekend night; pizza or a burger with fries or something like that. It is usually on these nights that I am woken up by the dreaded reflux reaching my throat and sending me into a coughing fit that can last a good ½ hour or so.
So what do I do? I listen to my body and try to stay away from late night junk food binges. Sure I’ll still have a treat every once in a while… but it won’t be late at night.
I think if some people with acid reflux diet problems would simply listen to their bodies, and act accordingly… they would likely receive less acid reflux attacks. Again, this can vary between individuals and a more rigorous treatment may need to be discussed with your doctor.
So which foods is more digestion friendly to those with bad heartburn?
Again, everyone has different reactions to certain foods, so bear that in mind when you look at MY anti acid reflux diet below.
Here is what I eat to help control my GERD symptoms. This type of diet also works well with the weight training that I do, as I need my protein intake a little higher than most people might.
To me, this does not taste too much like an acid reflux bland diet... but it did take a couple of weeks of getting used to eating this way when I first started.
Meal 1
- 1/2 cup large flake oatmeal (not the instant stuff)
- small banana
- 6 egg whites prepared on the side
- water
Meal 2
- sliced chicken breast on whole wheat or whole grain bread
- a little fat free mayo
- small apple
- small salad (no tomatoes - too much acid) with low fat dressing
- water
Meal 3
- flank steak, chicken breast or very lean pork
- boiled carrots, cabbage or greens beans
- backed potato or yam
- water
NOW HERE'S MY TRICK!
Because I need a little more protein from meat in my diet, I'll have a 4th meal about 1 to 1-1/2 hours before bedtime.
What I have learned to really help keep my heartburn under control, is to avoid having any more starchy carbohydrates (i.e. bread, potatoes, cereal, etc.) after my 3rd meal above (which is usually at 6pm).
By sticking with eating a piece of chicken breast and maybe some green beans for my last meal, I have found that I do not get acid reflux at night, nor am I woken up from severe heartburn.
If I was to only eat 3 meals a day, I would probably have my last meal (#3 above) about 3 hours before going to bed. This will give me plenty of time to make sure my food is properly digested and the stomach acid does not “backup” my esophagus and into my throat while I’m trying to sleep.
I’m sure some of you probably have more severe GERD problems than I do, and if so, I encourage you to talk with your health care professional about developing an acid reflux bland diet that works specifically for you.
by Joe
source: http://acid-reflux-diet-help.blogspot.com/2009_03_01_archive.html
Monday, April 27, 2009
Acid Reflux and Cough
I don't think there is any worse way to wake up abruptly, than to acid reflux and cough attacks.
For me, GERD symptoms seem to hit me the most at night, while asleep.
My own downfall is eating too closely to bedtime and not allowing enough time for proper digestion.
You see, I eat 5 to 6 times a day because I am on a weight training diet. Sometimes there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day and I end up eating my last meal fairly close to going to sleep.
There have been times, when pressed for time, when I'll have a quick protein shake with some peanuts about 30 minutes before lights out... then WHAMO... I am awaken to severe gastroesophageal reflux disease cough fits. Unless you've encountered one of these gastro oesophageal reflux symptoms, it really is difficult to comprehend how uncomfortable they can be.
Major lesson learned: If you suffer from acid reflux symptoms and are prone to coughing fits, don't eat too close to bed.
One thing I have found that helps from preventing severe heartburn is to take 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar after my meal. This seems to break my food down faster and I tend to get less of GERD reaction when I do this.
Now if I can just remember to try this remedy after my last meal of the day, I just may end up having to deal with less acid reflux and cough fits.
By Joe
source: http://acid-reflux-diet-help.blogspot.com/2009/04/acid-reflux-and-cough.html
For me, GERD symptoms seem to hit me the most at night, while asleep.
My own downfall is eating too closely to bedtime and not allowing enough time for proper digestion.
You see, I eat 5 to 6 times a day because I am on a weight training diet. Sometimes there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day and I end up eating my last meal fairly close to going to sleep.
There have been times, when pressed for time, when I'll have a quick protein shake with some peanuts about 30 minutes before lights out... then WHAMO... I am awaken to severe gastroesophageal reflux disease cough fits. Unless you've encountered one of these gastro oesophageal reflux symptoms, it really is difficult to comprehend how uncomfortable they can be.
Major lesson learned: If you suffer from acid reflux symptoms and are prone to coughing fits, don't eat too close to bed.
One thing I have found that helps from preventing severe heartburn is to take 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar after my meal. This seems to break my food down faster and I tend to get less of GERD reaction when I do this.
Now if I can just remember to try this remedy after my last meal of the day, I just may end up having to deal with less acid reflux and cough fits.
By Joe
source: http://acid-reflux-diet-help.blogspot.com/2009/04/acid-reflux-and-cough.html
Friday, April 24, 2009
Acid reflux symptoms, why do they fluctuate
If you have had Acid reflux symptoms for a long time then you should have seen a doctor. They may give you recommendations to follow. Changing your diet may be one and it can help. However you may already have changed to a diet that will lower the chances of you having acid reflux symptoms. If you have found that it did not improve after you have changed to an acid reflux diet then it may be something else. Eating habits and stress are also causes so it may not just be the food we eat.
There are other causes of heartburn besides the food we eat. Acid reflux symptoms can fluctuate from day to day because of many different factors.
Your eating habits play a big part.
What you can do is listed here:-
Sit up straight when eating- Do not slouch?
Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly
Eat smaller portions- Six small meals a day are better than three large ones
Try not to drink during your meal- especially alcohol
If you have tried the small changes above and still have problems then there is a great system called “heartburn No More” that can help. Find out more about the holistic system “Heartburn No More” in this article.
Trouble can be had with the way you eat as well as what you eat. One enormous help is changing the way you eat. The digestion system is overloaded when eating large amounts of food which also takes longer to digest. This in turn creates more acid which exasperates the problem and the excess acid ends up in your esophagus. Smaller portions should be eaten on a more frequent basis to aid digestion.
Sitting up straight when eating allows your food to have better entry into the stomach.The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) also has less strain on it. Eating slowly and chewing your food will help as the digestion process starts in your mouth. Food breakdown and digestion starts in the mouth with our saliva.
Once food has been taken what do you do- proceeding with the following can promote acid reflux.
Exercising after a meal
Lying down flat after a meal
Starting activities that need vigorous actions
The chances of refluxing acid into the esophagus increases if you start vigorous exercise after a meal as the digestive process slows down. When the digestion is slow gastric emptying is one of the problems that can occur. The body normally starts absorbing nutrients when the food is digested and enters the small intestine. Emptying of gastric juices is delayed when the digestion is slow. This means that undigested food is sitting in the stomach which in turn needs more stomach acid to aid digestion. This increase in stomach acid means that there is more chance that the stomach contents will be pushed back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn problems. An activity like bending over can be especially bad.
It is a well know fact that we should not exercise straight after eating. Professional sportsman eat well before they start there exercise? Any type of vigorous exercise places a strain on the LES and also slows down the absorption of nutrients into the body. It takes energy to digest your food. Your body becomes sluggish if all your energy is divided between eating and exercising. You will know what I mean if you have tried exercising after eating.
The digestion process is slow and can take anything up to four hours normally. The food in the stomach is semi liquid and the digestive enzymes needed to break down the food work best in an acidic environment, as opposed to a more alkaline environment. For acid reflux sufferers early stages of digestion are important. Because reflux is more susceptible in sufferers they should stay sitting up after eating. At night folk should eat between two and three hours before goings to bed, the longer the better. After eating it is best to stay upright as lying down promotes heartburn.
Stress
Stress is a good thing in our lives up to a certain point. A little stress keeps you ticking over and can be motivating. Although it can help at work there is only so much of it that is good for you. Our physical and mental wellbeing can suffer greatly with too much stress. Indeed it is supposed to be one of the biggest problems in our modern way of living. Stress is one of the factors that can lead to acid reflux.
Stressful conditions are responded to by your body. One of the things it does to combat stress is to send blood to the different parts of the body under stress. This all eats up our energy and takes this vital energy away from our digestion process thus slowing it down. It does not matter where you work on stressful days you feel exhausted and get home utterly worn out. Try not to let this happen regularly or you may find increased acid reflux problems.
Eating the wrong type of food is also a by-product of stress. Usually more alcohol is taken and people smoke more while under stress. Foods that are sweet high in fat and salt are also usually taken when stressed. These habits will increase the risk of acid reflux.
Stress can be avoided or reduced in a number of ways. Relax tension with vigorous exercise or sport. Try meditation like yoga to calm the mind. Get it off your chest, by venting your feelings to someone you can trust. Stress level reduction can also greatly reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Clothing
Sufferers from acid reflux are more suseptible to it depending on what they wear. One thing that can cause acid reflux and puts a lot of pressure on the LES is wearing tight clothing when eating. If you suffer from acid reflux being fashionable like wearing tight belts and jeans should be avoided. Other items that can add pressure to the LES are such things as corsets.
source: http://www.acnecleartoday.com/acid-reflux-symptoms-why-do-they-fluctuate/
There are other causes of heartburn besides the food we eat. Acid reflux symptoms can fluctuate from day to day because of many different factors.
Your eating habits play a big part.
What you can do is listed here:-
Sit up straight when eating- Do not slouch?
Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly
Eat smaller portions- Six small meals a day are better than three large ones
Try not to drink during your meal- especially alcohol
If you have tried the small changes above and still have problems then there is a great system called “heartburn No More” that can help. Find out more about the holistic system “Heartburn No More” in this article.
Trouble can be had with the way you eat as well as what you eat. One enormous help is changing the way you eat. The digestion system is overloaded when eating large amounts of food which also takes longer to digest. This in turn creates more acid which exasperates the problem and the excess acid ends up in your esophagus. Smaller portions should be eaten on a more frequent basis to aid digestion.
Sitting up straight when eating allows your food to have better entry into the stomach.The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) also has less strain on it. Eating slowly and chewing your food will help as the digestion process starts in your mouth. Food breakdown and digestion starts in the mouth with our saliva.
Once food has been taken what do you do- proceeding with the following can promote acid reflux.
Exercising after a meal
Lying down flat after a meal
Starting activities that need vigorous actions
The chances of refluxing acid into the esophagus increases if you start vigorous exercise after a meal as the digestive process slows down. When the digestion is slow gastric emptying is one of the problems that can occur. The body normally starts absorbing nutrients when the food is digested and enters the small intestine. Emptying of gastric juices is delayed when the digestion is slow. This means that undigested food is sitting in the stomach which in turn needs more stomach acid to aid digestion. This increase in stomach acid means that there is more chance that the stomach contents will be pushed back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn problems. An activity like bending over can be especially bad.
It is a well know fact that we should not exercise straight after eating. Professional sportsman eat well before they start there exercise? Any type of vigorous exercise places a strain on the LES and also slows down the absorption of nutrients into the body. It takes energy to digest your food. Your body becomes sluggish if all your energy is divided between eating and exercising. You will know what I mean if you have tried exercising after eating.
The digestion process is slow and can take anything up to four hours normally. The food in the stomach is semi liquid and the digestive enzymes needed to break down the food work best in an acidic environment, as opposed to a more alkaline environment. For acid reflux sufferers early stages of digestion are important. Because reflux is more susceptible in sufferers they should stay sitting up after eating. At night folk should eat between two and three hours before goings to bed, the longer the better. After eating it is best to stay upright as lying down promotes heartburn.
Stress
Stress is a good thing in our lives up to a certain point. A little stress keeps you ticking over and can be motivating. Although it can help at work there is only so much of it that is good for you. Our physical and mental wellbeing can suffer greatly with too much stress. Indeed it is supposed to be one of the biggest problems in our modern way of living. Stress is one of the factors that can lead to acid reflux.
Stressful conditions are responded to by your body. One of the things it does to combat stress is to send blood to the different parts of the body under stress. This all eats up our energy and takes this vital energy away from our digestion process thus slowing it down. It does not matter where you work on stressful days you feel exhausted and get home utterly worn out. Try not to let this happen regularly or you may find increased acid reflux problems.
Eating the wrong type of food is also a by-product of stress. Usually more alcohol is taken and people smoke more while under stress. Foods that are sweet high in fat and salt are also usually taken when stressed. These habits will increase the risk of acid reflux.
Stress can be avoided or reduced in a number of ways. Relax tension with vigorous exercise or sport. Try meditation like yoga to calm the mind. Get it off your chest, by venting your feelings to someone you can trust. Stress level reduction can also greatly reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Clothing
Sufferers from acid reflux are more suseptible to it depending on what they wear. One thing that can cause acid reflux and puts a lot of pressure on the LES is wearing tight clothing when eating. If you suffer from acid reflux being fashionable like wearing tight belts and jeans should be avoided. Other items that can add pressure to the LES are such things as corsets.
source: http://www.acnecleartoday.com/acid-reflux-symptoms-why-do-they-fluctuate/
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Causes Of Acid Reflux Syndrome
In simple terms, acid reflux disease is a condition where gastric juices containing acids travel from the abdomen back into the esophagus and chest line. This results in the person feeling a burning sensation which can range from being so mild that it´s hardly noticeable to being so severe that it´s almost debilitating.
Acid reflux is among the most commonly experienced medical situation all around the globe. There are billions of folks in the United States who are experiencing acid reflux.
There are billions who´ll be diagnosed with this condition. It´s crucial that you’re mindful of the symptoms of acid reflux syndrome. When diagnosed with this condition, you should learn more about the causes and symptoms of acid reflux as it can help you cope with the condition.
Likely Causes Of Heartburn
Cooperate with your doctor to spot the cause for the condition. There are still some things one should be mindful of, because you would know better than the doctor whether be it your lifestyle or diet that could be causing it.
A likely cause is smoking, so in case of a smoker, without doubts at any rate it´s partly responsible for the acid reflux syndrome. Boozing overly also brings to this kind of trouble. One should prefer to limit the amount he drinks.
A common cause is lack of physical workout and right nutrients.
By finding out the cause, you´ll be capable of dealing with the problem the start.
Medication For Acid Reflux
The 2nd step, when the cause for acid reflux is found is to take medication for your acid reflux condition.
Your doctor will be able to provide the appropriate medication for you. You can also try herbal remedies for acid reflux. Even if you´ve had a problem with acid reflux for an extended period of time, there´s an acid reflux home cure that will work for you, and here are a few of the very best.
When it comes to finding the best cure for acid reflux, one of the first things that you´ll want to try is antacids.
Really there exist many medications for the treatment of this condition. The common choice is proton pump inhibitor, which are a bunch of medicines that includes lanscoprazole, rabeprazole etc.
If untreated, acid reflux could become very harmful. It could show up burning permanent holes in the lining of the stomach. So you must make sure to take the right medication at the correct time.
Discover the best acid reflux cure and causes. Learn more about acid reflux and herbal teas and how it can help relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.
source: http://www.onehealthworld.com/causes-of-acid-reflux-syndrome/
Acid reflux is among the most commonly experienced medical situation all around the globe. There are billions of folks in the United States who are experiencing acid reflux.
There are billions who´ll be diagnosed with this condition. It´s crucial that you’re mindful of the symptoms of acid reflux syndrome. When diagnosed with this condition, you should learn more about the causes and symptoms of acid reflux as it can help you cope with the condition.
Likely Causes Of Heartburn
Cooperate with your doctor to spot the cause for the condition. There are still some things one should be mindful of, because you would know better than the doctor whether be it your lifestyle or diet that could be causing it.
A likely cause is smoking, so in case of a smoker, without doubts at any rate it´s partly responsible for the acid reflux syndrome. Boozing overly also brings to this kind of trouble. One should prefer to limit the amount he drinks.
A common cause is lack of physical workout and right nutrients.
By finding out the cause, you´ll be capable of dealing with the problem the start.
Medication For Acid Reflux
The 2nd step, when the cause for acid reflux is found is to take medication for your acid reflux condition.
Your doctor will be able to provide the appropriate medication for you. You can also try herbal remedies for acid reflux. Even if you´ve had a problem with acid reflux for an extended period of time, there´s an acid reflux home cure that will work for you, and here are a few of the very best.
When it comes to finding the best cure for acid reflux, one of the first things that you´ll want to try is antacids.
Really there exist many medications for the treatment of this condition. The common choice is proton pump inhibitor, which are a bunch of medicines that includes lanscoprazole, rabeprazole etc.
If untreated, acid reflux could become very harmful. It could show up burning permanent holes in the lining of the stomach. So you must make sure to take the right medication at the correct time.
Discover the best acid reflux cure and causes. Learn more about acid reflux and herbal teas and how it can help relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.
source: http://www.onehealthworld.com/causes-of-acid-reflux-syndrome/
Acid Reflux Cure - A Natural Cure For Acid Reflux Disease
Do you frequently experience heartburn, excessive bloating and an acid reflux of stomach acid also known as GERD and don’t know what the real cause is? Well today is your lucky day as I’ll explain the real reason you experience this disorder with the real cause explained which will lead the explanation of the natural acid reflux cure.
The Real Reason Acid Reflux Occurs
Ok get ready to open up your mind a little as this may seem a little strange and different from the explanation the doctors may have given you, the fact remains that this is always connected to acid reflux if not all the frequently being the root cause of the problem. It has been found in people with GERD that there is excessive fermentation in their intestines which expands and places pressure on various organs in the body, the main one being your stomach. When this pressure is applied it contorts your stomach into un-natural positions which cause it to force stomach acid back up the esophagus very easily. This also causes the excessive bloating often experienced by sufferers of acid reflux.
So what causes this excess intestinal fermentation?
There can be a few causes, however the most common is a sluggish intestine that is impacted and includes a Candida overgrowth. Candida is a yeast that lives in over 90% of the population, however it only causes problems in those who experience an overgrowth of it, which can occur for various reasons from anti-biotic use to a very poor diet to immune dysfunction to stress. Once a proper Candida cleanse routine is put in place you can expect to have the acid reflux reduce and eventually go away entirely, some people will actually experience a remission of symptoms within days sometimes. Drugs used for GERD ironically enough only worsen the problem as they increase the overgrowth of Candida. The natural acid reflux cure is to eliminate the Candida at the root of it!
source:http://iamsickofbeingfat.com/2009/04/14/acid-reflux-cure-a-natural-cure-for-acid-reflux-disease/
The Real Reason Acid Reflux Occurs
Ok get ready to open up your mind a little as this may seem a little strange and different from the explanation the doctors may have given you, the fact remains that this is always connected to acid reflux if not all the frequently being the root cause of the problem. It has been found in people with GERD that there is excessive fermentation in their intestines which expands and places pressure on various organs in the body, the main one being your stomach. When this pressure is applied it contorts your stomach into un-natural positions which cause it to force stomach acid back up the esophagus very easily. This also causes the excessive bloating often experienced by sufferers of acid reflux.
So what causes this excess intestinal fermentation?
There can be a few causes, however the most common is a sluggish intestine that is impacted and includes a Candida overgrowth. Candida is a yeast that lives in over 90% of the population, however it only causes problems in those who experience an overgrowth of it, which can occur for various reasons from anti-biotic use to a very poor diet to immune dysfunction to stress. Once a proper Candida cleanse routine is put in place you can expect to have the acid reflux reduce and eventually go away entirely, some people will actually experience a remission of symptoms within days sometimes. Drugs used for GERD ironically enough only worsen the problem as they increase the overgrowth of Candida. The natural acid reflux cure is to eliminate the Candida at the root of it!
source:http://iamsickofbeingfat.com/2009/04/14/acid-reflux-cure-a-natural-cure-for-acid-reflux-disease/
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