Many foods can trigger acid reflux, such as fatty and fried foods, tomato sauce, caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol. Reducing or eliminating these foods can help reduce symptoms.
Eating late at night can cause acid reflux symptoms to worsen. Eating at least three hours before bed can help reduce symptoms.
Being overweight can put extra pressure on the stomach and cause acid reflux symptoms. Losing even a few pounds can help reduce symptoms.
Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce symptoms by keeping stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus.
Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, which can lead to acid reflux. Quitting smoking can help reduce symptoms.
Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and can contribute to acid reflux. Limiting alcohol intake can help reduce symptoms.
Eating large meals can put pressure on the stomach and cause acid reflux. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help reduce symptoms.
Everyone has different trigger foods that can cause acid reflux. Keeping a food diary can help identify what foods cause symptoms and should be avoided.
Chewing gum can increase saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms.
Tight-fitting clothing can put pressure on the stomach and make acid reflux symptoms worse. Loose-fitting clothing can help reduce symptoms.
Stress can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Practicing stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce symptoms.
Medications, such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors, can be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and provide relief from acid reflux symptoms.