Though the root causes are often unclear, perhaps the most prevalent acid reflux
cause is a poor diet. Acid reflux occurs during digestion, when the stomach
churns up acid or refluxes it into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in
the chest or throat. So if you eat too many highly acidic foods like tomato
sauces and/or fatty, fried foods, the stomach has to process an overabundance of
acid. Too much acid can push back through a valve between the stomach and the
esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Acid reflux culprits
include but are not limited to tomato based sauces, fried and fatty foods,
chocolate, alcohol, citrus fruits, peppers, and caffeinated beverages.
Along the same lines as diet, overeating also causes reflux. When you overeat,
the stomach can’t keep up with the demand to process all the acids. So food gets
backed up, and digestive acids infiltrate the esophageal valve to cause that
unpleasant burning feeling centered in the chest.
Also diet-related, another acid reflux cause is being overweight. There is a
clear correlation between being overweight and a notable increase in the
occurrence of acid reflux. Many believe this is because the extra weight puts
more pressure on the stomach and esophagus. This pressure has been known to open
the lower esophageal sphincter (esophagus valve), when the valve should be
closed. This allows acid to escape into the esophagus.
Other factors that create a predisposition for acid reflux include smoking, use
of alcohol, food allergies, certain medications, and lying down after meals. As
you can tell, most of these factors can be overcome by practicing some
behavioral modifications. In fact, in many cases of recurrent acid reflux,
lifestyle changes are all that is necessary in preventing heartburn from
becoming a chronic disease. Remember to consult a physician before embarking on
any treatment strategy.
About the Author: Acid Reflux
provides comprehensive information on the cause, symptoms, treatment, and diet
associated with normal and infant acid reflux. For more information go to
http://www.e-acidreflux.com and/or visit its sister site at
http://www.i-painrelief.com for related information.