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The painful condition where the contents of the stomach want to flow back the way they came to cause heartburn is something we may all have experienced in our lives: it is called acid reflux. Many similar conditions exist but they all exhibit pretty much the same range of symptoms but all fall under the umbrella of gastrointestinal disorders. In order to assimilate the food we eat, our stomach dissolves it with a strong acid. The burning sensation experienced by sufferers of this disorder is caused by the stomachs digestive fluid attempting to return up the esophagus.

Food is normally trapped in the stomach by the lower esophageal valve after it has passed through to stop this problem. It is when the esophageal sphincter doesn’t close after food has passed through that the stomach fluids try to escape upwards and that is why it is called acid reflux.

Medical science prefers to call the condition: gastro esophageal reflux disorder (GERD). It is believed the problem that makes the condition worse is an unhealthy diet but it may not the only cause of acid reflux disorder; still, the volume of food that is consumed in any one sitting can also contribute because the digestive system becomes overwhelmed.

It is never wise to eat large amounts at is puts a significant strain on the stomach muscles which in turn results in pressure within the gut itself. Something has to give; this being the acid which returns or refluxes back up the esophagus bringing with it the very unpleasant heartburn. Easing this pressure should stop the esophageal valve from opening and acid escaping into the esophagus causing further damage.

To help with this condition, adjustments need to be made with regards to the size of meals consumed, which need to be smaller but more frequent. The importance of your stomach’s health cannot be underestimated for long term good health. The stomach has the important task of processing food so it can be broken down into important and vital nutrients used by the body.

A short term solution may appear to be the drugs that are easily purchased over the counter but guidance is needed. The problem is these ’short term’ remedies can create other problems as they interfere with the natural functioning of the digestive system. It may take a while but the best solution is to make adjustments to your drinking and eating habits which may have caused the acid reflux condition. This will then allow your stomach to settle down and regain its strength. You may have to take it easy for a while but eventually there shouldn’t be any reason why you cannot enjoy the foods you have been forced to give up for a while.

Other factors can also create a predisposition for acid reflux and these include:

Smoking any kind of tobacco products

Allergic reactions to certain types of food

Prescription medication

Drinking alcohol

Having a sleep after eating a meal

All of these factors are within your control and it only requires a change of habits and behavior on your part. If you need an incentive to stop the occasions where you suffer with heartburn then this should be it! So by watching what you eat and taking care of your health, you stand a better chance of avoiding and clearing acid reflux disorder. It really is a decision only you can make!

Filed under: Health & Fitness