What Leads To Heartburn – Food items To Avoid
Acid reflux, AKA heartburn, is a condition wherein acid-containing gastric juices come back into the esophagus from the stomach. The lower part of the esophagus contains a valve at the end, called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES for short, which opens in order to let the food we eat get into the gut, and then shutting to keep the gut juices and food within the stomach. When this valve relaxes too frequently or does not shut properly, it can lead to the stomach juices getting into the esophagus, which is not provided to address the acidic matter. When this occurs it leads to the telltale signs of heartburn, with a burning sensation in the area.
While most people may experience heartburn sometimes, if it continues for too much time, despite making changes in the diet as well as treatment, it may mean acid reflux disease, also called GERD. When the esophagus is exposed continuously to the acidic juices of the gut, it can become irritated and even damaged, leading to erosive esophagitis, or redness of the esophagus.
What are the foodstuffs to Avoid to manage Acid Reflux?
However,the condition can be improved by finding out about what foods to avoid, and making the required diet changes thereby. Of course you will need to ask your doctor before making any extreme dietary changes, and also devise a plan that you know you can adhere to over the long term.
Some of the common foods that are known for causing heartburn, that will lead to acid reflux illness, are : dairy goods like milk, cheese, yogurt, milk shakes, and ice cream ; spicy foods ; garlic and onions ; high carb foods like bread, macaroni, and spaghetti ; fried foods ; chocolate ; alcoholic beverages ; caffeinated beverages ; beef ; pureed potatoes ; spearmint and peppermint ; and tomato-based foods.
The best way to find out which foods do trigger off acid reflux symptoms is to maintain a food diary, jotting down the food that do cause the symptoms.
Also, it is best to avoid eating enormous meals, and instead have lighter meals more number of times in a day. In addition, it is also recommended not to trot off to bed right after a meal. A 3rd tip that you can try to alleviate the symptoms is to elevate the head of your bed.
Get the latest on acid reflux illness by visiting Chronic heartburn causes – a site that gives information and articles on What Causes Acid Reflux Disease