Gastric acid reflux, also known as heartburn or GERD, occurs when the esophagus sphincter muscle relaxes prematurely, allowing stomach acid to rise and enter the esophagus. Symptoms include chest pain, burning and in some cases nausea and vomiting. This uncomfortable condition can be treated at home by taking some simple measures.
Step 1
Stop smoking and avoid caffeine and alcohol. These irritate the stomach and cause acid production to increase. Smoking also promotes the sphincter relaxation in the esophagus that allows stomach acids to enter.
Step 2
Lose weight by eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly. Increased weight adds pressure to the stomach and pushes acid up into the esophagus. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products will help avoid excess calories. Walking and aerobics are ideal for burning fat and calories that are not taken care of by regular daily activity.
Step 3
Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Three big meals overload your digestive system and increase stomach acid. Smaller meals will curb acid production.
Step 4
Raise the head of your bed slightly to allow gravity to prevent acid rise in the esophagus during the night. Putting pillows under the mattress or a couple of two by fours under the bedframe will raise it enough to still be comfortable.
Step 5
Eat three to four hours before bed. Eating right before retiring for the night will cause active stomach acid to rise as it digests your recently eaten food.
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