Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach travel up into the esophagus. Because the cells that line the esophagus are not equipped to handle acid, the condition causes burning, inflammation and pain. Acid reflux is sometimes triggered by problems with the lower esophageal sphincter, which a ring of muscle at the junction of the stomach and esophagus that prevents the contents of the stomach from entering the esophagus.
The key to healing acid reflux is to prevent acid from reaching the esophagus. Acid reflux can often be controlled by making some key changes in your diet. The esophageal lining will heal over time.
Step 1
Reduce your caloric intake. Excess weight can put pressure on your lower esophageal sphincter, causing it to open more easily. When the lower esophageal sphincter opens, acid from the stomach can easily travel up into the esophagus, resulting in acid reflux.
Losing excess weight can effectively treat heart burn and acid reflux. The simplest way to do this is to eat fewer calories than you expend each day, which you can do by following a healthy meal plan and increasing your physical activity. Discuss with your doctor a personalized diet plan that will allow you to safely lose one to two pounds each week if you are overweight or obese.
Step 2
Increase your consumption of leafy, green vegetables and broccoli. Vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are bitter because of their high alkaline content. Alkali foods are able to neutralize acid, which can keep the esophagus from being burned by stomach acid.
Step 3
Avoid foods that exacerbate acid reflux. These include citrus fruits or foods that contain tomato products, as well as spicy foods. Chocolate, garlic, onions and mint should also be avoided as they can cause relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, resulting in acid reflux.
Fatty or fried foods can also cause indigestion and increase acid production in the stomach, which can also trigger acid reflux. Finally, patients should limit caffeine and alcohol consumption as they can temporarily weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.
Step 4
Consume smaller meals. Smaller meals can help you eat less each day, which can help prevent excess weight from exacerbating your acid reflux. Large amounts of food in the stomach can press on the lower esophageal sphincter, causing it to open slightly and allow stomach acids to flow into the esophagus.
