When people start to exhibit symptoms of acid reflux disease (GERD), the first thing they usually do is buy some type of antacid, either a chewable tablet or some type of liquid. While this method is not harmful if used once in a while, the continuous use of antacids can do a lot more harm than you can imagine.
when one consumes antacids, the acid reflux problem is often compounded because the antacids tend to slow down the digestive process and, in turn, cause the problem to linger. Not only that but the use of antacids causes the stomach to release even more acids with the next meal. This is because the acid sensors are distorted by the antacid which caused the acid/base balance in the stomach to be unbalanced. With this, the stomach thinks it needs to release more acids in order to get the digestion accomplished.
It's a complicated process but in the end, the result is an enhancement of the acid reflux condition. Acid reflux does not have to be treated with antacids. Acid reflux can actually be treated by using a common-sense diet approach. It is not a diet that is complicated or hard to deal with. It is simply cutting back on certain types of foods while increasing other types. The acid reflux diet is also comprised of timing meals so that food is digested appropriately.
If one uses the acid reflux diet and eats at the appropriate times, the condition can often be controlled quite well. It is really not difficult.
While the acid reflux diet is an easily accomplished one, there are certain myths and fallacies that should be considered prior to starting an acid reflux diet.
One such fallacy is that milk will reduce the acid in the stomach. Often, many folks will consume a glass of milk prior to going to bed. While milk is thought to reduce the acids from the stomach the opposite is true. Milk causes more acid production because it contains fats and proteins which need to be broken down further for digestive purposes. The stomach senses these compounds and thereby releases more acids. So, if you have acid reflux problems, do not drink a glass of milk prior to bedtime.
Another acid reflux myth that has recently been exposed is that fruit juices, spicy foods and coffee cause excess acids and therefore cause acid reflux conditions. The Archives of Internal Medicine recently published information on studies that prove that this belief is just a myth and nothing more.
So, what kind of a diet would diminish the effects of acid reflux disease?
It has been shown that the usual culprit in acid reflux disease is a high-fat diet. Anytime you eat a high fat diet you are at risk for exhibiting acid reflux symptoms, especially if you eat a large meal.
You should consume small meals several times a day rather than just the traditional three meals a day. This gives the stomach a chance to digest the small meal prior to your eating the next one. This leaves little in the stomach for digestion and so acid is released only in small quantities.
It is also a good idea to eat more complex carbohydrates such as pasta or rice rather than high fat or high sugar foods. This allows the stomach to release small amounts of acid rather than large acid doses that accompany meals high in fat content.
Try to avoid such things as excessive alcohol consumption, especially beer, or large rich desserts.
After a meal, make an effort to remain in an upright, seated position for at least an hour.
If you must lie down, elevate your head and upper torso so that food does not slip into the esophagus causing acid reflux.
When and if you feel a bout of acid reflux symptoms beginning, one of the best things you can do is cut way back on eating for a day or so. That does not mean that you should stop eating altogether. Just eat very simple items like fresh raw vegetables in small quantities for a couple of days. This gives the stomach a chance to rest and readjust. In other words, it allows the stomach to reset itself. This simple task could save you a world of hurt.
Once you've allowed the stomach to relax and reset, start over by eating smaller meals and following the guidelines above. Avoid antacids if at all possible.
Acid reflux disease can be avoided, or at least controlled, if you just use a little discipline and common sense.
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