If you have been bothered by acid reflux, there are many ways to alleviate symptoms by looking at when, where and how you eat. Acid is an essential ingredient in the process of digestion, as it is the substance in the stomach that breaks down the food you eat. The problem arises when the acid moves up from the stomach into the esophagus. This can only happen when the valve separating the stomach from the esophagus doesn't close completely when you eat. There are many reasons this can happen. The valve requires specific nutrients to function properly. It also works most efficiently when you are in an upright position.
Here are some tips that have worked with my clients to avoid a backwash of stomach acid:
1. Eat real meals, with real food, not processed foods that contain chemicals and additives. Processed foods often require more work to break down and can trigger acid production.
2. Eat slowly and always when you are sitting up. Create a calm environment when eating.
3. Notice how you feel after you eat. There are some perfectly good foods that may not agree with you, and if you take note of that you can eliminate them. Some foods, like tomatoes are highly acidic and may trigger discomfort in some.
4. Finish eating at least 3 hours before lying down to sleep.
5. Drink water frequently though the day.
I have seen people get over their acid reflux and regularly eat spicy foods and other foods one might think would aggravate a sensitive system. It just shows that we are all unique in what our body tolerates when it comes to real food. One person may be fine with tomatoes, while it may cause problems for another. That’s why it’s so important to tune in to how your body responds.
Take some time to see how you are affected by food. Make a note any time you feel an upset in your stomach or esophagus and check back on what you ate. See what you discover about your body’s unique needs.