5 Easy Tips To Reduce GERD & Heartburn

The lower esophogeal sphincter (LES) is the most important valve for keeping stomach contents out of the esophogus, causing heartburn. Here are 5 simple things you can start doing today to aid the LES and alleviate heartburn and acid reflux.

1) Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Putting less pressure on the LES allows it to function more effectively.
2) Don't eat 3 hours before bedtime. Laying down with a full stomach puts more pressure on the LES, causing higher instances of failure.
3) Elevate your head a few inches while you sleep. This helps take the pressure off the LES by using gravity.
4) Don't wear belts or clothes that are tight around the waist. Tight fitting clothes cinch the stomach which puts pressure on the LES by forcing the stomach contents upward.
5) Aviod beverages that trigger acid reflux. These include alcohol, caffienated beverages, tomato juice, citrus juices, and carbonated beverages.