Acid reflux is often mistaken for common heartburn. They are not the same. Acid reflux is much more serious as it can damage your esophagus, a kind of muscle at the top of your stomach. There are foods to avoid for acid reflux, and food to enjoy too. Here are my 7 acid reflux remedies for a more comfortable life: 1. Avoid eating large meals. This puts a lot of food in the stomach at one time, which makes an attack more likely. Eat smaller meals and try to keep the time between meals to around four hours at least, and that includes between meals snacks too. Also, your last meal of the day should be taken no less than two hours before going to bed. 2. Coffee will stimulate gastric acid secretion. It's the caffeine that does it, so this includes sodas containing caffeine. Read the labels well. Alcohol also stimulates gastric acid, unfortunately, as does Vitamin C supplements and calcium supplements. Try to limit or cut these out altogether. 3. Avoid eating all fatty foods. Fried foods especially can irritate and lead to an acid reflux attack, so no more burgers and hot dogs. They're not really so healthy anyway... 4. Avoid or minimize your use of acidic and spicy foods. These include things like oranges, lemons and tomatoes, chilli-based meals, curry-based meals, and anything else that is rich in spices. 5. Some things we all think of as being good for us, like vegetables and milk, can be bad for acid reflux. Avoid eating cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower and onions. Equally, avoid all milk-based products, as well as milk itself. 6. While most people only think of foods to avoid for acid reflux, there are other measures you can take as well to make your life more comfortable. Elevate the head of your bed. Don't just add a few pillows - that isn't effective. Actually raise the head of the bed by placing blocks six inches or so high under the head feet of the bed. 7. And finally, the one other things you must not do is lie down after a meal. I love the idea of having an afternoon siesta too, but if you you're seeking a more comfortable, acid reflux free life - don't! |
