What Causes Acid Reflux

http://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos-image37933303Millions of people suffer from acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when acid content of the stomach flows up into the esophagus. The problem with this is that the esophagus is not equip to handle acid from the stomach. The stomach has a lining which protects it from the acid. Whereas, the esophagus does not have lining for protection. The gastro esophageal sphincter is what usually protects the esophagus from the acid contents of the stomach spewing up into it. However, when this valve fails, acid reflux results. This is the most common disease of the gut as noted by US hospital departments. It is more common in western countries where 20-30 percent of the population suffers from it.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

1. Diet.

Diet is the primary causes of acid reflux. Eating too many acidic foods can result in a higher occurrence of acid reflux. Eating too many acidic foods messes up the pH of the stomach. Unbalanced pH levels in the stomach is the primary cause for acid reflux. This is the reason that most of medications and remedies for acid reflux revolve around balancing the pH levels of the stomach.

2. Smoking.

Smoking can contribute to a higher occurrence of acid reflux because it can damage the mucus membranes. Smoking can also increase acid secretion. Not to mention, smoking can lead to a reduction in salivation which can help to neutralize acids.

3. Eating too late.

By eating too late, you can increase the chances of acid reflux occurring. This is because you will likely lay down after eating. By laying down when you are eating, you are not letting gravity work toward your favor. Because of this, the food from what you ate is more likely to come back up into your esophagus. By eating earlier, your body will have a better chance to digest the food properly , and you will be less likely to experience acid reflux.

4. Being overweight.

Being overweight is one of the biggest contributors to suffering from acid reflux. By being overweight, your stomach muscles may be obstructed and not work properly. By losing weight, you will better position your body from experiencing acid reflux.

5. Exercising.

Exercising can result in experience acid reflux because it can lead to increase pressure in the abdominal cavity. This increased pressure can cause the acid to come up into your esophagus more easily. By waiting for a good period of time for your body to properly digest the food before you exercise, you will decrease the chances of experiencing acid reflux.

As you can see, plenty of things can cause acid reflux. You should be able to identify what causes acid reflux for your particular situation and make the necessary changes for it to stop. You should be able to make some lifestyle and diet changes that will ultimately help you reduce the instances of acid reflux from occurring.