It is well-known that millions suffer from the effects of acid reflux and heartburn. While traditional medication certainly helps, you could adopt certain changes in your lifestyle as well to battle this problem. Most people use omeprazole, a popular medication, to help fight this condition. However, while medication can help, a long-term solution is necessary as well. Research indicates that changing your dietary preferences and getting more sleep might go a long way in managing your symptoms.

Acid reflux occurs when the stomach’s acid gets pushed back up into the esophagus, which carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Some acid pushback may be normal but when it’s too high, it burns the esophagus. The most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn which is a burning sensation in the heart and throat. Other symptoms include cough, trouble swallowing, tooth decay, and sinus inflammation. People also often report feeling an acidic taste in the back of their mouth.

Some of the natural treatments for acid reflux are:

1. Try not to overeat
At the bottom of the esophagus, which leads into the stomach, lies the lower esophageal sphincter. It acts like a valve and closes to prevent stomach acid from going into the esophagus. However, in people with acid reflux, doctors find that the sphincter may be significantly weaker or even dysfunctional. The sphincter also opens after belching or vomiting or while swallowing. Acid reflux most commonly occurs after a large meal. Any pressure on the sphincter may allow the acid to squeeze through. This gives rise to acid reflux. It is observed that a good way to prevent acid reflux is by having smaller meals.

2. Try to shed some weight
Obesity could also cause acid reflux problems. The diaphragm, a muscle, lies above the stomach and naturally supports the lower esophageal sphincter. Studies indicate that when there is far too much pressure on the abdominal area, this pushes the sphincter upward, depriving it of the support by the diaphragm. As a result, the acid may be able to pass through it and into the esophagus. Doctors suggest that obese individuals may be at risk. Because of their excess weight around the abdomen, they may have some difficulty with acid reflux. If you suffer from this unfortunate condition, your first priority should be to lose weight.

3. A low-carb diet is key
Evidence indicates that a low-carb diet is the best way to get rid of acid reflux. Experts suspect that undigested carbs could be responsible for the pressure in the abdomen and bacterial overgrowth. The undigested carbs may lead to gas-producing bacteria, so people tend to belch more. In a study conducted by doctors, prebiotic fibers or supplements were given to participants and this worsened their GERD symptoms. Impaired absorption and digestion of carbs can lead to acid reflux.

Therefore, when it comes to natural treatments for acid reflux, a few simple strategies can help in the long run.