16 lifestyle for reduce GERD symptoms
2.Strive for a less stressful life. Stress may increase stomach acids, boosting heartburn symptoms.
3.Heavy? Try losing weight. The pressure of excess weight increases the chance stomach acid will backup into the esophagus.
4.Popping antacids more than once a week? You may have GERD, not heartburn, and need more aggressive treatment.
5.Try chewing gum at night. This can boost the production of saliva, which neutralizes stomach acid.
6.Not all "trigger" foods cause GERD symptoms in everyone. Keep track of your symptoms to find your personal triggers.
7.Pregnant? You may experience heartburn or GERD. Talk to your doctor about finding relief.
8.Heartburn worse after exercise? Drink plenty of water. It helps with hydration and digestion.
9.Untreated GERD can radically increase your risk of esophageal cancer. But reflux can be managed. Talk with your doctor.
10.Try keeping a diary or heartburn log to keep track of activities that might trigger incidents.
11.A full tummy can mean a night full of heartburn pain. Wait at least 2-3 hours after you eat before going to bed.
12.Wait for your workout. Don't want to trigger heartburn? Wait at least two hours after a meal before exercising.
13.Nicotine can cause your esophageal sphincter to relax. If you smoke, kick the habit.
14.Some medicines can worsen reflux. Talk with your doctor about alternatives.
15.Use blocks or bricks under the bedpost to raise the head of your bed 6 inches so you can sleep with head and chest elevated. You can also try a wedge pillow.
16.Bend with your knees. Bending over at the waist tends to increase reflux symptoms.