If your doctor says that you have acid reflux disease, there’s plenty you can do. In addition to diet and lifestyle changes, any medicine your doctor recommends will likely be an important part of your treatment. While some of these changes may not be easy, you can work with your doctor to map out a treatment plan that’s manageable.
You can still have fun with your menu
Making healthy diet changes doesn’t mean you have to eat bland food that puts your taste buds to sleep. Surf the Web or check out your local bookstore where you can find some great recipe books geared to people with heartburn. Or download free recipes in the healthy recipes section. You may be surprised at how enjoyable food can be even though you’re watching what you eat.
What lifestyle changes should you make?
Whether or not your doctor prescribes medication, lifestyle modifications should be an important part of your acid reflux disease management plan. All of these changes are intended to help you manage your acid reflux disease by helping you avoid trigger behaviors and keep your body and mind in an overall healthy state.
Exercise—being overweight can increase your risk of acid reflux disease. Regular exercise helps digestion and helps you trim down. You don’t have to be a star athlete—a heart-healthy activity like walking may be all it takes. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Stop smoking—smoking may aggravate your heartburn. It makes your body produce less saliva (your body’s natural neutralizer). Plus, it may stimulate acid production and weaken your LES “valve,” allowing acid to escape into your esophagus. If you don’t already have enough reasons to quit, now you have one more!
Ease stress—lowering the stress in your life may help to reduce your acid reflux disease symptoms. Stress can encourage you to engage in behaviors that may trigger heartburn, like eating fatty foods, drinking coffee, drinking alcohol, or smoking.
Have fun—a great way to lower your stress level (and maybe even get some exercise) is to incorporate play into your day. Throwing a ball around with the kids, playing cards, or just joking with friends can help reduce stress and keep heartburn at bay.
Breathe deeply—deep-breathing exercises can calm the body and ease the mind. Simply find a comfortable, quiet spot, sit up straight, and inhale slowly through your nose, then exhale through your mouth.
This is not a substitute for medical advice. Only your doctor can determine if you have acid reflux disease and prescribe appropriate treatment.
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