Acid Reflux and GERD

Many people suffer with heartburn and use commercial medications.However it is also worth trying lifestyle changes.Changing your dietary habits may help.When you have acid reflux,stomach acid gets pushed into the esophagus. Twenty per cent to forty per cent of people with regular heartburn are diagnosed with GERD.As well as heartburn,symptoms of acid reflux can include coughing,asthma and sinus problems.Studies have shown that extra weight in the abdominal area may increase the risk of reflux and GERD.Carbonated drinks,alcohol,coffee,citrus juices,saturated fats,trans fats and onions may aggravate symptoms.Vegetables are helpful in reducing stomach acid including celery,parsley,leafy greens,carrots,potatoes,sweet potatoes and green beans.Some people find fennel,caraway,ginger , turmeric and oatmeal helpful.Natural yoghurt with live cultures can be soothing on the digestive tract. A study in September 2011 in the “Scandanavian Journal of Gastroenterology”found that participants who took probiotics experienced fewer symptoms of acid reflux and GERD.