Stomach Acid Reflux
- What Is Stomach Acid
- What Is Stomach Acid Reflux
- Stomach Acid Reflux Symptoms
- Stomach Acid Reflux Treatment
Stomach acid helps digestion of protein and absorption of minerals. It is essential for preventing the growth of good stomach bacteria and yeast, which all aid digestion. Stomach acid itself does not cause heartburn or other GERD-related problems.
Stomach acid reflux occurs when the stomach acid ends up in the wrong place, coming up into the esophagus instead of remaining in the stomach. If the stomach acids come into the esophagus with its gentle tissues, it can cause the Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis).
Symptoms of the stomach acid reflux disease include
- Heartburn
- Food Regurgitation
- Sore and painful throat, cough
- Hoarse voice
Since the stomach acid reflux problem is caused by failure of the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach (the LES or lower esophageal spincter valve) and not an overabundance of the acid itself, acid suppression doesn't prevent reflux. Instead, treatment focuses on the root cause of the inappropriate opening of the LES, and prevention of excessive fullness or distension of the stomach. The following steps are recommended to reduce GERD flareups:
- Eat frequent, small meals
- Avoid foods with bad fats (they weaken the LES)
- Avoid cigarettes, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol
- Don't eat 3 hours before lying down to let the food get far enough in the digestive tract
- Lose weight (The overweight are at GERD risk)
- Don't eat 15 minutes before exercise
- Absorbaid - helps speed digestion, allowing the stomach to feel less full
- Calcium Citrate - can help soothe the burning feeling associated with heartburn