Remedies for Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia is a fairly common condition that is unpleasant at best, and miserable at worst. In some cases, they cause such severe symptoms that you may find yourself unable to even get a decent night of sleep, leaving you feeling exhausted, depressed, incapable of concentrating and unable to enjoy much of anything. For some, these problems go on for months or years. Many people who have a Hiatal hernia may not even be aware of it, and may spend masses of time and money going from one doctor to another to try to find out why they feel so awful. Many of these people may never realize that Hiatal hernia is treatable, and can be prevented from worsening.

There is evidence that Hiatal hernia may be caused, in part or in whole, by weakness of the core abdominal muscles, allowing the stomach to be forced up through the diaphragm. These muscles can be strengthened by certain types of exercise. Try lying on your back with your knees up and your feet flat on the floor. Using your shoulders and feet to support your weight, lift your buttocks and lower back off of the floor, lowering again slowly and gently. Do this about 10 times per day. Walking is also good, since it improves digestion and encourages the stomach to go back into its proper place.

Many sufferers of Hiatal hernia also suffer from chronic acid reflux, which is aggravated by certain foods such as refined sugars and flours, raw onions and peppers and cold beverages. Any liquids should be consumed no less than 30 minutes before a meal, or an hour after. Avoid carbonated drinks, as these fill the stomach with air and make the stomach more susceptible to being forced through the hiatus. Mint should be consumed with caution, as it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to back up into the esophagus.

Just as there are foods that hurt, there are also foods that help. Numerous common spices help to improve digestion such as cumin, cinnamon, ginger fennel and turmeric. These spices make an excellent after-meal tea, especially when used together. Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in enzymes and fiber that assist proper digestion. Fresh pineapple and papaya are particularly helpful because they contain potent natural enzymes that rapidly break down protein in the stomach.

Along with changes in diet, changes to your lifestyle and behaviors can help to remedy your Hiatal hernia. When lifting, bend at the knees, keeping your back straight. If the object is very heavy, get someone to help you. May Hiatal hernias are caused by improper lifting, or lifting too heavy an object. Also, work to improve your posture. Sit up straight, keeping your feet on the floor. Make an effort to reduce your stress and anger, as they cause tension in the muscles, impair proper digestion and cause labored breathing. Finally, avoid overeating. An overly full stomach is not only a recipe for acid reflux, but it may cause worsening of a Hiatal hernia. Cure your Hiatal hernia by visiting Reflux Remedy at refluxremedy.com today!