How can you alleviate heartburn without medication. What lifestyle changes can reduce GERD symptoms. Which dietary modifications help prevent acid reflux. How does sleeping position affect nighttime heartburn. Why does meal timing impact acid reflux severity.

Understanding Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are common digestive issues affecting millions of Americans. Between 18.1-27.8% of adults in the United States experience GERD, which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing that characteristic burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn. While medications are often used to treat these conditions, many lifestyle modifications can also effectively reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Optimizing Sleep Habits for Acid Reflux Relief

The Impact of Sleep Position

Did you know that your sleep position can significantly affect acid reflux symptoms? Research indicates that sleeping on your left side may decrease acid exposure in the esophagus by up to 71%. This is likely due to the anatomy of the esophagus, which enters the right side of the stomach. By sleeping on your left side, you help keep acid away from the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing the likelihood of reflux.

Elevating the Head of Your Bed

For those experiencing nighttime acid reflux, elevating the head of the bed can provide substantial relief. A review of four studies found that this simple adjustment decreased acid reflux and improved symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation in people with GERD. By creating a slight incline, gravity helps keep stomach contents where they belong, reducing the chances of reflux during sleep.

Dietary Strategies to Minimize Acid Reflux

Timing Your Meals

When it comes to managing acid reflux, when you eat can be just as important as what you eat. The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFGD) recommends eating dinner several hours before bedtime. Why is this important? Going to bed with undigested food, especially after a heavy meal, can exacerbate reflux symptoms at night. Consider making lunch your main meal of the day and opting for a lighter dinner to reduce nighttime discomfort.

Choosing the Right Foods

Certain foods are known to trigger acid reflux in many individuals. Raw onions, for example, are a common culprit. They can be difficult to digest and may irritate the esophageal lining, worsening heartburn. If you enjoy onions, try cooking them instead, as this can make them easier on your digestive system. Being mindful of your food choices and how they affect your symptoms can help you create a reflux-friendly diet.

Meal Size and Frequency: A Key to Reflux Management

The size and frequency of your meals can play a crucial role in managing acid reflux. Larger meals tend to increase pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and esophagus. In individuals with acid reflux, this muscle is often weakened or dysfunctional. By opting for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, you can help reduce the pressure on this sphincter and potentially minimize reflux symptoms.

• Eat 5-6 small meals instead of 3 large ones
• Chew food thoroughly to aid digestion
• Avoid overeating, even with smaller meals
• Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues

The Role of Body Weight in Acid Reflux

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing acid reflux symptoms. Excess belly fat can increase pressure in the abdomen, potentially pushing the lower esophageal sphincter upward and away from the support of the diaphragm. This condition, known as hiatal hernia, is considered a leading cause of GERD. Research has shown that having excess abdominal fat is associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing acid reflux and GERD.

How does obesity contribute to GERD? The increased pressure within the abdominal cavity due to excess weight can force stomach contents back into the esophagus more easily. If you’re considering weight loss as a strategy to manage acid reflux, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate and safe approach for your individual needs.

Carbohydrate Intake and Its Impact on Reflux

The relationship between carbohydrate intake and acid reflux is an area of growing interest in nutritional research. Some studies suggest that a high-carb diet may exacerbate acid reflux symptoms, while reducing carbohydrate intake could help alleviate GERD symptoms. But why might this be the case?

One theory proposes that undigested carbs may lead to bacterial overgrowth and increased pressure inside the abdomen, potentially contributing to acid reflux. When carbohydrates aren’t fully digested, they can ferment in the gut, producing gas and causing bloating. This increased abdominal pressure may force stomach contents back into the esophagus, resulting in reflux symptoms.

Implementing a Low-Carb Approach

If you’re considering a low-carb diet to manage your acid reflux, here are some tips to get started:

1. Focus on lean proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables
2. Limit intake of refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and sugary foods
3. Choose complex carbohydrates from whole grains, legumes, and fruits in moderation
4. Monitor your symptoms and adjust your carb intake accordingly
5. Consult with a registered dietitian to ensure your low-carb diet is nutritionally balanced

Alcohol Consumption and Acid Reflux: Finding the Right Balance

For many individuals with acid reflux, alcohol can be a significant trigger. But why does alcohol worsen reflux symptoms? Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Additionally, alcoholic beverages, especially wine and beer, can increase the production of stomach acid, further exacerbating reflux symptoms.

Does this mean you need to completely eliminate alcohol from your diet? Not necessarily. While limiting alcohol intake is generally recommended for those with acid reflux, the key is to find the right balance that works for you. Some individuals may be able to tolerate small amounts of certain alcoholic beverages without triggering symptoms, while others may need to avoid alcohol altogether.

Tips for Mindful Alcohol Consumption

• Opt for non-alcoholic alternatives when possible
• If you do drink, choose lower-acid options like gin or vodka with non-acidic mixers
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach
• Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water
• Be mindful of your personal triggers and limits

Lifestyle Modifications to Complement Dietary Changes

While dietary adjustments play a crucial role in managing acid reflux, incorporating certain lifestyle modifications can further enhance your efforts to reduce symptoms. These changes, when combined with dietary strategies, can significantly improve your quality of life and minimize the discomfort associated with acid reflux and GERD.

The Importance of Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and altering digestive processes. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial in managing reflux. Consider incorporating practices such as:

• Regular meditation or mindfulness exercises
• Deep breathing techniques
• Yoga or gentle stretching routines
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

The Role of Exercise in Reflux Management

Regular physical activity can contribute to better digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, both of which are important for managing acid reflux. However, it’s crucial to choose the right types of exercise and timing to avoid exacerbating symptoms. Here are some tips for incorporating exercise into your reflux management plan:

1. Opt for low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling
2. Avoid exercises that involve lying flat or bending over excessively
3. Wait at least two hours after eating before engaging in vigorous exercise
4. Stay hydrated during workouts to support healthy digestion
5. Listen to your body and adjust your exercise routine as needed

Natural Remedies and Supplements for Acid Reflux Relief

In addition to lifestyle and dietary changes, some natural remedies and supplements may offer relief from acid reflux symptoms. While these options can be helpful for many individuals, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any new supplements into your regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications.

Herbal Remedies

Several herbs have been traditionally used to soothe digestive discomfort and may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help reduce stomach acid and relieve heartburn
• Chamomile: This herb can have a calming effect on the digestive system and may help reduce acid reflux symptoms
• Licorice root: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) may help increase the mucus coating of the esophageal lining, providing protection against stomach acid
• Marshmallow root: This herb can form a protective coating in the digestive tract, potentially reducing irritation from stomach acid

Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can play a role in managing acid reflux. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, may help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of reflux. Similarly, digestive enzymes can aid in the breakdown of food, potentially reducing the likelihood of reflux. Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut into your diet, or discuss probiotic supplements with your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Professional Help for Acid Reflux

While lifestyle modifications and natural remedies can be effective for many people with acid reflux, it’s important to recognize when professional medical help is necessary. Chronic or severe acid reflux can lead to complications if left untreated, so it’s crucial to be aware of warning signs that indicate the need for medical intervention.

Red Flags to Watch For

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider:

• Persistent heartburn that occurs more than twice a week
• Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food getting stuck in your throat
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest pain, especially when lying down or bending over
• Chronic cough, wheezing, or hoarseness
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools

A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis, rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications or further testing if necessary.

Customizing Your Acid Reflux Management Plan

Managing acid reflux effectively often requires a personalized approach. What works for one person may not be as effective for another, so it’s important to experiment with different strategies and find the combination that works best for you. Keep a symptom journal to track your triggers, the effectiveness of various interventions, and any patterns you notice in your reflux symptoms.

Remember that managing acid reflux is often an ongoing process. Be patient with yourself as you implement changes and don’t hesitate to adjust your approach as needed. With persistence and the right combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and potentially medical interventions, most people can significantly reduce their acid reflux symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

By incorporating these evidence-based strategies into your daily routine, you can take control of your acid reflux symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable, reflux-free life. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking medications.

14 Ways to Prevent Heartburn and Acid Reflux

You may be able to prevent or reduce acid reflux symptoms with a few lifestyle changes, including eating dinner earlier, adjusting your sleeping position, and avoiding certain acidic foods and drinks.

Most of us are all too familiar with the painful, burning sensation in the center of the chest that’s associated with heartburn.

In fact, between 18.1-27.8% of adults in the United States experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a common condition that causes heartburn. GERD occurs when acid is pushed up from the stomach back into the esophagus, which leads to a heartburn sensation.

Although people often use medications to treat acid reflux and heartburn, many lifestyle modifications can also help you reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Here are 14 natural ways to reduce your acid reflux and heartburn, all backed by scientific research.

Research shows that sleeping on your left side can help decrease acid reflux at night. According to one review, lying on your left side may decrease acid exposure in the esophagus by up to 71%.

Although the reason is not entirely clear, it could be explained by the anatomy of the esophagus. The esophagus enters the right side of the stomach, so sleeping on the left side keeps acid away from the lower esophageal sphincter.

The sphincter is normally responsible for keeping acid and your undigested food from coming back up to your throat, but different things can cause this to malfunction, such as your sleeping position, for example.

Summary

If you experience acid reflux at night, try sleeping on the left side of your body.

Some people experience acid reflux at night, which can affect sleep quality and make it more difficult to fall asleep.

One review of four studies found that elevating the head of the bed decreased acid reflux and improved symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation in people with GERD.

Summary

Elevating the head of your bed may reduce your reflux symptoms at night.

According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFGD), if you experience acid reflux, you should try to eat dinner a few hours before going to bed.

Consider also having your big meal of the day at lunch so that your dinner can be lighter. Research shows that going to bed with undigested food, particularly if you’ve eaten a heavy meal, can worsen your symptoms at night.

Summary

Eating close to bedtime may worsen acid reflux symptoms at night.

4. Opt for cooked onions instead of raw

Raw onions are a common trigger for gastrointestinal symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn.

This is because raw onions are more difficult to digest and might irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing worsened heartburn. If you like to eat onions, consider eating them cooked.

Summary

Some people experience worsened heartburn and other reflux symptoms after eating raw onions.

5. Eat smaller, more frequent meals

The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus. In people with acid reflux, this muscle is weakened or dysfunctional, causing acid to flow up into the esophagus.

Unsurprisingly, many reflux symptoms take place after a meal. Therefore, eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Summary

Acid reflux usually increases after meals, and larger meals seem to make it worse.

6. Maintain a moderate weight

However, if you have excess belly fat, the pressure in your abdomen may become so high that the lower esophageal sphincter gets pushed upward, away from the support of the diaphragm.

This condition, known as hiatal hernia, is considered the leading cause of GERD.

Furthermore, research shows that having excess belly fat may be associated with a higher chance of acid reflux and GERD. Obesity, in general, is associated with a greater chance of getting GERD due to greater pressure within the abdominal cavity.

If you’re interested in weight loss as a way to manage acid reflux, speak with your doctor first to determine if it’s right for you and, if so, how you can lose weight safely and sustainably.

Summary

Losing belly fat and maintaining a moderate weight might relieve some of your symptoms of GERD.

7. Follow a low carb diet

Research shows that eating a high carb diet can worsen acid reflux, and reducing your carb intake can help reduce the symptoms of GERD.

Some researchers suspect that undigested carbs may cause bacterial overgrowth and increased pressure inside the abdomen, which could contribute to acid reflex.

Having too many undigested carbs in your digestive system can often cause not only gas and bloating but also burping.

Summary

Some research suggests that poor carb digestion and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine may result in acid reflux.

8. Limit your alcohol intake

Drinking alcohol may increase the severity of acid reflux and heartburn. Research has shown that higher alcohol intake could be linked to increased symptoms of acid reflux.

That’s because alcohol increases stomach acid, relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, and impairs the ability of the esophagus to clear out acid.

Summary

Excessive alcohol intake can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

9. Don’t drink too much coffee

Research has found that coffee also temporarily may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the chance of acid reflux.

However, research findings are inconclusive, with older research not finding an association between coffee consumption and acid reflux symptoms

Summary

Evidence suggests that coffee may make acid reflux and heartburn worse.

10. Limit your intake of carbonated beverages

Research shows that regular consumption of carbonated or fizzy beverages, including soft drinks, club soda, and seltzer, could be linked to a higher chance of reflux.

This may be because the carbon dioxide that gives these drinks their bubbles can cause you to burp more, which can increase the acid coming out of your esophagus.

One study found that carbonated soft drinks, in particular, worsened certain acid reflux symptoms, including heartburn, fullness, and burping.

Summary

Drinking carbonated beverages temporarily increases the frequency of burping, which may promote acid reflux.

11. Don’t drink too much citrus juice

Many types of citrus juice, including orange juice and grapefruit juice, are considered common triggers for heartburn.

These ingredients are highly acidic and contain compounds like ascorbic acid, which could cause indigestion if you consume them in large amounts and may irritate the lining of your esophagus.

While citrus juice probably doesn’t cause acid reflux directly, it could make your heartburn worse temporarily.

Summary

Some people with acid reflux report that drinking citrus juice makes their symptoms worse.

12. Avoid mint, if needed

Peppermint and spearmint are common ingredients used to make herbal tea and add flavor to foods, candy, chewing gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste.

However, research shows that peppermint oil may decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure, which may cause heartburn. Another study showed that menthol, a compound found in mint, could worsen reflux in people with GERD.

For this reason, it’s best to avoid mint if you feel that it makes your heartburn worse.

Summary

A few studies indicate that mint and some of the compounds it contains may aggravate heartburn and other reflux symptoms.

Fried foods and some other fatty foods may also be a trigger for GERD. Some research shows they may lead to heartburn. Examples include:

• fried foods
• potato chips
• pizza
• bacon
• sausage

High-fat foods like these may contribute to heartburn by causing bile salts to be released into your digestive tract, which may irritate your esophagus.

They also appear to stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone in your bloodstream that may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents back into the esophagus.

One study looked at what happened when people with GERD ate high fat foods. More than half of the participants who had reported food triggers said they experienced GERD symptoms after eating high fat, fried foods.

That said, you do need some fat to stay healthy. Learn more about healthy fats vs unhealthy fats.

Summary

Foods that are high in fat may trigger GERD symptoms, including heartburn, in some people.

Your saliva helps to neutralize the acid that comes up from your stomach to your esophagus. But smoking can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth.

Smoking also lowers the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter, which can cause coughing and acid reflux. Research shows that quitting smoking can reduce the severity of your acid reflux or GERD.

Learn more about smoking and acid reflux.

How do you get rid of acid reflux fast?

The quickest way to get relief from acid reflux might be to take an antacid like Tums. Learn more about treatments for GERD and acid reflux.

What can I drink to get rid of acid reflux?

Certain herbal teas, low fat or plant-based milk, non-citrus fruit juice, coconut water, and sometimes just regular water may help reduce your acid reflux symptoms. Learn what to drink for acid reflux.

Will acid reflux go away naturally?

If you have temporary heartburn related to something you are or a mild form of GERD, your acid reflux may go away on its own after a few hours. In more serious cases, you may need medication and lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms.

The bottom line

Heartburn is an uncomfortable issue that can be caused by a variety of different factors. If you notice that your symptoms are worse after you have certain foods or beverages, it’s reasonable to limit or avoid these things.

Although there are many medications and treatment options available to ease heartburn, making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle may also be beneficial.

Try some of the tips above to find what works for you to reduce heartburn and acid reflux.

14 Ways to Prevent Heartburn and Acid Reflux

You may be able to prevent or reduce acid reflux symptoms with a few lifestyle changes, including eating dinner earlier, adjusting your sleeping position, and avoiding certain acidic foods and drinks.

Most of us are all too familiar with the painful, burning sensation in the center of the chest that’s associated with heartburn.

In fact, between 18.1-27.8% of adults in the United States experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a common condition that causes heartburn. GERD occurs when acid is pushed up from the stomach back into the esophagus, which leads to a heartburn sensation.

Although people often use medications to treat acid reflux and heartburn, many lifestyle modifications can also help you reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Here are 14 natural ways to reduce your acid reflux and heartburn, all backed by scientific research.

Research shows that sleeping on your left side can help decrease acid reflux at night. According to one review, lying on your left side may decrease acid exposure in the esophagus by up to 71%.

Although the reason is not entirely clear, it could be explained by the anatomy of the esophagus. The esophagus enters the right side of the stomach, so sleeping on the left side keeps acid away from the lower esophageal sphincter.

The sphincter is normally responsible for keeping acid and your undigested food from coming back up to your throat, but different things can cause this to malfunction, such as your sleeping position, for example.

Summary

If you experience acid reflux at night, try sleeping on the left side of your body.

Some people experience acid reflux at night, which can affect sleep quality and make it more difficult to fall asleep.

One review of four studies found that elevating the head of the bed decreased acid reflux and improved symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation in people with GERD.

Summary

Elevating the head of your bed may reduce your reflux symptoms at night.

According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFGD), if you experience acid reflux, you should try to eat dinner a few hours before going to bed.

Consider also having your big meal of the day at lunch so that your dinner can be lighter. Research shows that going to bed with undigested food, particularly if you’ve eaten a heavy meal, can worsen your symptoms at night.

Summary

Eating close to bedtime may worsen acid reflux symptoms at night.

4. Opt for cooked onions instead of raw

Raw onions are a common trigger for gastrointestinal symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn.

This is because raw onions are more difficult to digest and might irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing worsened heartburn. If you like to eat onions, consider eating them cooked.

Summary

Some people experience worsened heartburn and other reflux symptoms after eating raw onions.

5. Eat smaller, more frequent meals

The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus. In people with acid reflux, this muscle is weakened or dysfunctional, causing acid to flow up into the esophagus.

Unsurprisingly, many reflux symptoms take place after a meal. Therefore, eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Summary

Acid reflux usually increases after meals, and larger meals seem to make it worse.

6. Maintain a moderate weight

However, if you have excess belly fat, the pressure in your abdomen may become so high that the lower esophageal sphincter gets pushed upward, away from the support of the diaphragm.

This condition, known as hiatal hernia, is considered the leading cause of GERD.

Furthermore, research shows that having excess belly fat may be associated with a higher chance of acid reflux and GERD. Obesity, in general, is associated with a greater chance of getting GERD due to greater pressure within the abdominal cavity.

If you’re interested in weight loss as a way to manage acid reflux, speak with your doctor first to determine if it’s right for you and, if so, how you can lose weight safely and sustainably.

Summary

Losing belly fat and maintaining a moderate weight might relieve some of your symptoms of GERD.

7. Follow a low carb diet

Research shows that eating a high carb diet can worsen acid reflux, and reducing your carb intake can help reduce the symptoms of GERD.

Some researchers suspect that undigested carbs may cause bacterial overgrowth and increased pressure inside the abdomen, which could contribute to acid reflex.

Having too many undigested carbs in your digestive system can often cause not only gas and bloating but also burping.

Summary

Some research suggests that poor carb digestion and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine may result in acid reflux.

8. Limit your alcohol intake

Drinking alcohol may increase the severity of acid reflux and heartburn. Research has shown that higher alcohol intake could be linked to increased symptoms of acid reflux.

That’s because alcohol increases stomach acid, relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, and impairs the ability of the esophagus to clear out acid.

Summary

Excessive alcohol intake can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

9. Don’t drink too much coffee

Research has found that coffee also temporarily may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the chance of acid reflux.

However, research findings are inconclusive, with older research not finding an association between coffee consumption and acid reflux symptoms

Summary

Evidence suggests that coffee may make acid reflux and heartburn worse.

10. Limit your intake of carbonated beverages

Research shows that regular consumption of carbonated or fizzy beverages, including soft drinks, club soda, and seltzer, could be linked to a higher chance of reflux.

This may be because the carbon dioxide that gives these drinks their bubbles can cause you to burp more, which can increase the acid coming out of your esophagus.

One study found that carbonated soft drinks, in particular, worsened certain acid reflux symptoms, including heartburn, fullness, and burping.

Summary

Drinking carbonated beverages temporarily increases the frequency of burping, which may promote acid reflux.

11. Don’t drink too much citrus juice

Many types of citrus juice, including orange juice and grapefruit juice, are considered common triggers for heartburn.

These ingredients are highly acidic and contain compounds like ascorbic acid, which could cause indigestion if you consume them in large amounts and may irritate the lining of your esophagus.

While citrus juice probably doesn’t cause acid reflux directly, it could make your heartburn worse temporarily.

Summary

Some people with acid reflux report that drinking citrus juice makes their symptoms worse.

12. Avoid mint, if needed

Peppermint and spearmint are common ingredients used to make herbal tea and add flavor to foods, candy, chewing gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste.

However, research shows that peppermint oil may decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure, which may cause heartburn. Another study showed that menthol, a compound found in mint, could worsen reflux in people with GERD.

For this reason, it’s best to avoid mint if you feel that it makes your heartburn worse.

Summary

A few studies indicate that mint and some of the compounds it contains may aggravate heartburn and other reflux symptoms.

Fried foods and some other fatty foods may also be a trigger for GERD. Some research shows they may lead to heartburn. Examples include:

• fried foods
• potato chips
• pizza
• bacon
• sausage

High-fat foods like these may contribute to heartburn by causing bile salts to be released into your digestive tract, which may irritate your esophagus.

They also appear to stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone in your bloodstream that may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents back into the esophagus.

One study looked at what happened when people with GERD ate high fat foods. More than half of the participants who had reported food triggers said they experienced GERD symptoms after eating high fat, fried foods.

That said, you do need some fat to stay healthy. Learn more about healthy fats vs unhealthy fats.

Summary

Foods that are high in fat may trigger GERD symptoms, including heartburn, in some people.

Your saliva helps to neutralize the acid that comes up from your stomach to your esophagus. But smoking can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth.

Smoking also lowers the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter, which can cause coughing and acid reflux. Research shows that quitting smoking can reduce the severity of your acid reflux or GERD.

Learn more about smoking and acid reflux.

How do you get rid of acid reflux fast?

The quickest way to get relief from acid reflux might be to take an antacid like Tums. Learn more about treatments for GERD and acid reflux.

What can I drink to get rid of acid reflux?

Certain herbal teas, low fat or plant-based milk, non-citrus fruit juice, coconut water, and sometimes just regular water may help reduce your acid reflux symptoms. Learn what to drink for acid reflux.

Will acid reflux go away naturally?

If you have temporary heartburn related to something you are or a mild form of GERD, your acid reflux may go away on its own after a few hours. In more serious cases, you may need medication and lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms.

The bottom line

Heartburn is an uncomfortable issue that can be caused by a variety of different factors. If you notice that your symptoms are worse after you have certain foods or beverages, it’s reasonable to limit or avoid these things.

Although there are many medications and treatment options available to ease heartburn, making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle may also be beneficial.

Try some of the tips above to find what works for you to reduce heartburn and acid reflux.

What can you eat with diarrhea in a child and an adult | Diet for diarrhea

Co-author, editor and medical expert – Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 3,009,009

Date last updated: 2 Contents

What can I eat with diarrhea?
What to drink with diarrhea?
What should I avoid if I have diarrhea?
What is diarrhea and how to treat it

It is very important to adjust your diet and diet in case of bowel disorder in order to help the body cope with the problem as effectively as possible. If you do not know what to eat with diarrhea, use our recommendations.

Back to Contents

What Can You Eat When You Have Diarrhea?

• Diet for diarrhea should include foods high in pectin: applesauce, bananas, yogurt. Pectin – water-soluble fiber – helps to cope with indigestion.
• Pay attention to foods rich in potassium – fruit juices, jacket potatoes, bananas. When the intestines are upset, the body actively loses potassium and its restoration is necessary.
• Don’t forget to add salt to your meals. Meals should include salty soups, broths, crackers, etc., which will help retain water in the body and stay hydrated.
• Get enough protein. With an upset stomach, you can eat lightly fried beef, turkey, chicken, or hard-boiled eggs to avoid fatigue and fatigue.
• Eat hot processed vegetables and fruits. Some raw vegetables and fruits can make diarrhea worse. When dieting, try a simple soup with asparagus, carrots, beets, zucchini, mushrooms or celery, mashed potatoes or jacket potatoes.

Back to Contents

What to drink with diarrhea?

Drink at least a glass of liquid after each bout of diarrhea to prevent dehydration. In case of intestinal upset, drink water, weak tea, apple juice, low-fat broth. A liquid diarrhea diet does not burden the digestive tract with heavy work and helps prevent irritation.

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What should I avoid if I have diarrhea?

• Avoid caffeinated drinks and foods that are very hot or cold. It will irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
• Avoid fatty, fried and heavy foods during the diet. Such a diet will only exacerbate intestinal upset.
• Avoid foods that cause gas in the intestines – chewing gum, carbonated drinks. They irritate the digestive tract.
• Limit milk and dairy products. They can be hard to digest.
• Avoid nuts, raw fruits and vegetables, bran and whole grain breads in your diet. They irritate the digestive tract.

Try not to smoke or drink alcohol.

A complete list of what to eat with diarrhea is contained in the diet “Table No. 4”.

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What is diarrhea and how to treat it

Diarrhea is loose, loose stools accompanied by excessive loss of fluid and electrolytes. Intestinal upset occurs when the contents of the gastrointestinal tract move too fast, preventing fluid and nutrients from being absorbed.

For a quick cessation of diarrhea (within 1 hour), IMODIUM ^® Express lozenges are recommended, which will help normalize bowel function by restoring the natural rhythm of its work. Tablets dissolve directly on the tongue in 2-3 seconds, do not require drinking water and have a pleasant mint taste.

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

Read also articles about products that provoke diarrhea.

* Among products based on Loperamide. According to sales in money for February 2018 – January 2019, according to IQVIA.

Methods and preparations for the treatment of loose stools. The nature of the causes of diarrhea | Imodium®

Author, editor and medical expert – Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 637 673

Date last updated:

What to do about diarrhea
Medicines for treating diarrhea in adults

Diarrhea syndrome is the second most common after acute respiratory infections of the upper respiratory tract ¹ .

Because loose stools can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, treatment of diarrhea should always be preceded by a visit to the doctor and examination.

Causes of loose stools may be associated with infection:

• food poisoning caused by eating foods that are contaminated with bacterial toxins ² ;
• intestinal infection that develops when infected with viruses, bacteria or protozoa ² .

Infectious diarrhea, in addition to intestinal disorders, is characterized by general malaise, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, and sometimes vomiting ¹ . The severity of these symptoms and the choice of drug for therapy depend on the infectious agent that caused the disease ¹ . Therefore, before treating diarrhea, the doctor will conduct a study – a microbiological analysis of vomit and feces to determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to antibiotics ¹ .

Diarrhea may be associated with non-infectious inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, enteritis, colitis), circulatory disorders of the intestine (ischemic enteritis), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances and allergies, taking certain medications. In all these cases, the doctor selects the optimal treatment ⁴ .

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What to do about diarrhea

Recurrent diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes ^1.2 . Violation of the body’s water and electrolyte balance negatively affects the work of the cardiovascular system and aggravates the course of the disease ⁵ . Therefore, rehydration therapy aimed at replenishing fluid losses is the first and most important component of the treatment of diarrhea in adults, and even more so in children ¹ .

Rehydration

The method of rehydration depends on the degree of dehydration:

• In case of normal health and the absence of strong thirst and dry mouth, drinking plenty of water is enough ^1,2,5 .
  What to drink with a nose? In this case, ordinary drinking water, mineral water without gas, green or black tea, fruit drinks, compotes, diluted juices (if they are well tolerated), decoctions of dried rose hips and blueberries are suitable ^{1. 2} .
• If there is severe thirst, dry mouth, anxiety and bruising under the eyes, that is, signs of moderate dehydration, you need to drink special rehydration solutions ^1.5 . They contain the most necessary electrolytes and help to restore the balance in the body during diarrhea.
• Severe dehydration in which the patient appears emaciated, lethargic, unable to drink and hardly urinates – indication for hospitalization and intravenous rehydration ^2.5 . In such cases, urgent medical attention is needed.

As fluid loss is compensated, the state of health improves, thirst disappears, urination is restored. Rehydration therapy does not reduce the frequency of stools, does not speed up recovery, but prevents the development of severe complications due to dehydration ¹ .

Diet

Diet during diarrhea should be sparing. All dishes should have a delicate texture, so the products used for their preparation are carefully crushed, ground, stewed, boiled.

During the treatment of diarrhea, adults are advised to exclude from the diet ^2.6 :

• raw vegetables/fruits and stringy meats, which contain a large amount of indigestible coarse fibers;
• various sweets, legumes, yeast bread, dairy and other products that cause fermentation and putrefaction in the intestines;
• onions, garlic, radishes, turnips, mushrooms and spinach rich in essential oils;
• beets, dried apricots and prunes;
• coffee, cocoa and chocolate for their intestinal stimulating effect ^2.6 .

Slimy soups, meatballs and quenelles made from twice ground lean meat, steamed fish, rice or buckwheat boiled in water, plain crackers and eggs are recommended ^{1, 6} .

If the intestinal disorder is caused by allergies or intolerance to lactose and gluten, the doctor prescribes an elimination diet that completely eliminates the use of “irritant” foods.

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Medicines for treating diarrhea in adults

Pharmacy chains offer a large number of products to normalize bowel function. However, self-medication is unacceptable. All drugs should be prescribed by a doctor based on the results of the examination.

Antibacterial agents

According to statistics, in 80% of cases, infectious diarrhea ends on its own within 5 days and there is no need to use antibiotics ^1.5 . If the diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic therapy. The drug is chosen on the basis of the clinical picture and the results of a microbiological study of vomit and feces.

Enterosorbents

Enterosorbents are used to bind pathogenic bacteria, toxins and free water in the intestines. This allows to reduce intoxication, accelerate recovery and normalization of stool ^4.5 .

Antidiarrheals

Antidiarrheals are prescribed to quickly relieve diarrhea and prevent dehydration ^1,4,5 . Among the drugs in this group is IMODIUM® Express, the main active substance of which is loperamide ⁷ .