Normally, a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter opens to allow food to pass to the stomach from the esophagus and prevent it from traveling backwards. Certain conditions disrupt the action of the lower esophageal sphincter, and as a result, stomach acid, food and other stomach contents leak backwards from the stomach and into the esophagus. This condition is called acid reflux. If it occurs regularly, it is categorized as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
Food to Avoid
If you experience occasional acid reflux, you may be able to manage your condition by avoiding certain foods that cause the symptoms. Often referred to as trigger foods, they may differ among individuals. There are some common triggers, however, including spicy foods, fatty foods, citrus fruits and fruit juices, whole milk, ice cream, full-fat yogurt, tomatoes, tomato sauce, chocolate and mint. Alcohol, caffeine and carbonated beverages may also trigger the symptoms of acid reflux. Avoiding these foods may help prevent acid reflux and reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Eating Recommendations
A number of eating and lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Refrain from lying down for two to three hours after eating a meal. Avoiding tight-fitting garments and belts can also help reduce the pressure on the abdomen and help decrease the symptoms of acid reflux. Eating smaller meals can help reduce the strain on your stomach and decrease the amount of acid your stomach produces. The Bastyr Center for Natural Health also notes the importance of eating your meal more slowly and being sure to chew each bite approximately 25 times. Chewing helps exercise your lower esophageal sphincter, which can increase the strength of the muscle and help prevent acid from entering the esophagus. The chewing motion also activates saliva and digestive enzymes that protect the esophageal lining from damage. Other lifestyle recommendations include avoiding exercise directly after meals and elevating the head during sleep.
Medications
If you have regular acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease, your doctor may recommend medications to help control symptoms. Some medications are available over the counter, while other require a prescription. There are different classes of acid reflux medications. Some reduce the amount of stomach acid that your stomach produces. Others neutralize stomach acid so that even if it does reflux, it does not cause any pain.
Surgery
If medications do not help or gastroesophageal reflux disease is severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. Nissen fundoplication is a procedure in which the lower esophageal sphincter is surgically tightened to physically prevent acid reflux. Another procedure, called an EndoCinch, involves placing a suture near the lower esophageal sphincter to create a barrier that prevents acid reflux.
