Tips to Control Acid Reflux Symptoms
It is not easy to live with acid reflux symptoms. Acid reflux occurs when the acid and undigested food flows backward into the esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter valve does not close properly. This condition is also called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The symptoms can include coughing, excessive throat clearing, regurgitation, and heartburn. It is an unpleasant feeling but besides being that it can point to other serious problems like esophageal cancer and ulcer. Acid reflux or GERD can be brought under control by following certain lifestyle tips for acid reflux. 1. Foods to avoid Avoid eating specific foods as they cause discomfort and make acid reflux worse. Many doctors will tell you to avoid acidic food – citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, spicy foods, etc. There may be no actual proof that these foods cause more acid to reflux but these foods do cause a burning sensation in people who already have a sensitive esophagus and worsen the acid reflux situation. 2. Fatty foods and too many calories Eating specific foods does not cause acid reflux but, eating too many calories or fatty foods is what makes things worse. Research shows that eating more than 500 calories or more than 20 grams of fat worsens acid reflux.