Heartburn, a bitter taste in your mouth, trouble sleeping. These are the symptoms of acid reflux. Gastro-esophageal reflux is defined as the regurgitation of a portion of the stomach contents into the esophagus. After chewing and swallowing, food passes into the pharynx and esophagus and then into the stomach. These areas turn food into “mush” due to mechanical mixing but is also thanks to the action of gastric juices. These juices are strong acids that can dissolve food and kill most bacteria. The stomach wall is lined mucus to protect themselves against the attack of these juices. But the esophagus offers no protection against acid attacks. Seeing a Doctor in Maui can help you fight this.
Foods to avoid
The majority of foods high in fat are not recommended as they decrease the power of the esophageal sphincter, promoting reflux. Whole milk, chocolate, spices and seasonings, citrus, mint, onions, meats are not recommended either. Avoid starving yourself because a stomach which was empty too long will be weakened by acid attacks. Click here to know more.
* Soft drinks. Soft drinks should be avoided because of the bloating they can cause, a worsening factor for reflux.
* Alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages, such as wine, beer or hard alcohol contribute to the relaxation of the esophageal sphincter and thus increase the risk of reflux. When these drinks are consumed on an empty stomach, that is to say, with an empty stomach, the risk of reflux worsens.
* Coffee and tea. Coffee and tea should be avoided because they promote the relaxation of the esophageal sphincter, causing reflux manifestations that irritate the lining of the esophagus.
* Avoid high fat meals. Avoid high fat, a true risk factor for reflux.
* Tobacco. Smoking increases gastric acidity.
* Stress. Avoid tension and stress that worsen the manifestations of reflux.
* Play sports because it exhausts tension and a gives you a feeling of well-being.
* Get calm and restful sleep.
* Do deep breathing exercises.
* A warm bath relaxes and soothes.
* Learn more about non-drug stress.
Your Doctor in Maui will also tell you that some medications can cause or aggravate reflux: Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are particularly dangerous. Talk to your doctor about other drugs, such as those intended to treat osteoporosis. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Annelle E. Onishi M.D. to learn more.
