Thursday, December 6, 2012

Managing heartburn

HEARTBURN, also known as acid reflux, is a condition that affects millions of people at all ages. The most common symptom is a burning sensation experienced in the throat or chest. Consistent acid reflux can cause severe damage to the sensitive tissues of the esophagus and throat.

Acid reflux is often caused by problems associated with an individual's lifestyle. Fortunately, most cases respond well to treatment with a combination of lifestyle changes. Below are some steps on how to manage acid reflux.

* STEPS

1. Change your diet. You should be aware of the foods that are causing you to have acid reflux. The foods that you eat can increase stomach acid levels if it is difficult to digest, or highly acidic. Avoid food items such as alcohol, caffeine, citrus fruits, tomatoes, fatty, or fried foods, carbonated beverages, spicy foods, or fatty dairy products. These foods will exacerbate the acid reflux.

2. Eat foods that are high in fiber. Increasing the fiber in your diet can help regulate the digestive system and may decrease

3. Eat meals slowly to avoid ingesting excess air. When the stomach fills with air, uncomfortable bloating and pressure can occur. When this air is expelled through belching, it may carry excess stomach acid into the esophagus and cause a burning sensation. By eating and drinking slowly, you can reduce the amount of air that is swallowed while eating.

4. Staying hydrated is essential to prevent excess stomach acid. Dehydration is one of the leading causes of excess stomach acid. Water has a neutral pH, meaning it is neither an acid, nor a base. When your body has sufficient amounts of water, it can naturally regulate the acidity of the stomach are disrupted and people may not follow their normal routines with regards to meals, exercise, etc. It is important to find ways to de-stress.

6. Exercise and keep fit. Excess fat in the abdominal area puts extra pressure on the stomach and can increase the symptoms of acid reflux. If you are overweight, you need to exercise to achieve a healthier weight control.

7. Contact your doctor for an accurate diagnosis of acid reflux. Frequent heartburn may be a sign of a more serious problem called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition caused by irritating stomach acids that back up into the esophagus, the "tube" that links your mouth to your stomach. It is recommended that you consult a doctor first before engaging in any lifestyle changes and treatment.

TIPS

Heartburn Food Remedy

* Aloe Vera has proven to be a good heartburn remedy. It has an alkalising effect on the body, to help neutralise acid, and can relieve heartburn. The juice is readily available in capsule or liquid form, and is sold in many pharmacies and supermarkets.

* Eat bananas. These food are known to be acid-neutralising agents. Bananas, are rich in potassium, a compound that can neutralizes gastric acids and digestive juices in your stomach.

* Drink herbal tea. Studies show that herbal tea such as peppermint, chamomile, and fennel tea have natural abilities to neutralise stomach acid. However do not consume hot tea, instead go for lukewarm tea.

* Chew on some apples. As the saying goes "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," Apples contain ingredients that neutralise excess acids in the stomach, and help minimise the production of gastric juices.

* Chew some gum. When you chew gum, you are promoting the production of saliva, which can flush out stomach acid and gastric juices.

* Over the counter antacid. Alternatively you can get over the counter drugs to relieve the pain. Antacid comes in pill or capsule form, and is available at drug stores and pharmacy. Over-the-counter medications will only reduce the symptoms of acid reflux disease and do not present a cure.

* If your acid reflux symptoms is chronic, contact your doctor and make sure your conditions are well treated.




Compiled by 1Klassifieds team

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