chronic acid reflux

September 16, 2011

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!

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April 7, 2011

Chronic Acid Reflux

Chronic acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that primarily affects the stomach and the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux disease is a result of an improperly functioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle. This muscle is located at the top of the stomach and at the bottom of the esophagus. The sole purpose of this muscle is to act as a barrier between the stomach and the esophagus protecting both from potential hazards. Mechanically, food travels from the mouth, down the esophagus in hopes of smoothly transition to the stomach. When food is traveling down the esophagus the LES opens up allowing the food to travel into the stomach and the muscle closes immediately after the food passes through.

When the LES malfunctions the muscle isn’t properly closing after food passes or it is opening too frequently. The open LES allows for stomach acids to leak up into the esophagus causing what is known as heartburn or acid reflux. If this happens occasionally, there is no need to be alarmed as your acid reflux is not chronic. If this heartburn happens two or more times a week you are likely suffering from chronic acid reflux. If not properly tended to, chronic acid reflux disease has been known to cause more serious health conditions.

It is not really clear as to why some people suffer from chronic acid reflux while others never seem to have a problem. Many speculate that a hiatal hernia is a great contributing factor. A hiatal hernia is a stomach abnormality that occurs when the LES and the upper part of the stomach move above the diaphragm. A major function of the diaphragm is to serve as the muscle that helps keep acids in your stomach. If you are suffering from a hiatal hernia the acids in your stomach acids can move up into your esophagus causing acid reflux symptoms.

There are many other factors that can lead to chronic acid reflux. Most of these factors are related to your daily diet. There are certain foods and drinks that can trigger acid reflux in those that are prone to the condition. If you are likely to drink soda, coffee or other caffeinated drinks you may want to eliminate these drinks and opt instead for a glass of water. Drinking water before, during and after meals works wonders for aiding in the digestive process. It also soothers the esophagus if you are experiencing heartburn.

Fried and fatty foods, though tasty, can be extremely hazardous not only in terms of acid reflux, but also in terms of health. Try eating healthy and see if your chronic acid reflux persists. Salads, vegetables and hearty fruits are always great alternatives.

See if you can eliminate bad habits. If you are a smoker, stop. If you notice that you are an overeater or that you are overweight, do what you can to control portions and lose weight. Eating smaller portions several times a day should ultimately help.

Make the necessary changes to nip your chronic acid reflux in the bud. Your health will thank you for it.

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