Acid Reflux Disease Alternative Therapy

Acid reflux, or heartburn, is caused by hydrochloric acid escaping past the esophagus sphincter, resulting in inflammation. Symptoms include chest pain, gas and difficulty swallowing. Conventional treatments generally consist of taking an over-the-counter antacid; however, this method is disputed by the holistic medical field for treating the symptoms but not the problem. There are a variety of alternative approaches available for heartburn sufferers to try.

Water

• Drink a glass of water to wash the back of your esophagus at the end of every meal. Hydrochloric acid rising up from the esophagus can be pushed down with water. Acid reflux is also a sign of dehydration, because it causes the esophageal sphincter to relax. Drink eight to 10 glasses of 8 oz. water each day to stay hydrated.

Diet

• According to the National Heartburn Alliance at www.heartburnalliance.org, foods that trigger heartburn include citrus, fats and chocolate. In addition, spicy foods, dairy products, fried foods and caffeine can cause acid reflux. Combat this disease by incorporating foods that help neutralize stomach acid. Stomach acid helps break down foods and keeps the body free from infections; however, in excess it can cause heartburn. Try eating more whole grains, wheat pasta, legumes, lean proteins and monounsaturated or polyunsaturated oils. Use herbs and spices such as rosemary, dill, ginger and basil. Replace fatty dairy products with rice milk, soy cheese or coconut ice cream. Change your meal routines by eating smaller portions several times a day instead of three large meals. Bring snacks with you that don't include your trigger foods; this way, you won't get hungry and binge. Experiment with recipes that avoid problem foods and come up with a few of them on your own.

Stress

• The National Heartburn Alliance polled people who had frequent bouts of heartburn and found that 58 percent led stressful lives. Reduce stress by taking up a consistent workout routine. Join a gym or fitness group. Mediation classes or yoga can teach you important stress-coping mechanisms. Even a 15-minute walk after dinner can help reduce heartburn by preventing you from lying down. By refraining from lying down for two hours after eating, you allow your stomach acid to empty into the intestinal tract. Also, set up a relaxing ritual for meals such as putting on music, lighting candles, eating outside or refraining from stressful conversations.

Weight

• According to the Mayo Clinic at www.mayoclinic.com, losing weight can decrease your heartburn symptoms. Excess weight puts stress on the lower abdomen and causes stomach acids to back into the esophagus. Avoid wearing tight or ill-fitting clothes when eating to prevent acid from coming back up