TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux disease caused by a weakening of the valve or sphincter located in the lower esophagus. Weakened valve conditions cause stomach acid to rise up into the esophagus. If left unchecked will cause irritation and inflammation.
However, this disease can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle. Michael Vaezi, clinical director of the divisions of gastroenterology and hepatology and director of the Center for Esophageal Motility Disorders at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, said what will help avoid GERD may not necessarily help someone else.
Vaezi gave an example when people drink ordinary coffee and some also cause symptoms. Here are 10 ways to prevent GERD everydayhealth.com.
Lose weight
Excess weight can be the main cause of acid reflux disease according to Vaezi because when there is too much stomach fat, it will put pressure on the stomach and then push gastric acid into the esophagus and this can trigger GERD.
Avoid foods that cause a rise stomach acid
Certain foods can trigger this disease, such as fatty, spicy, acidic foods, such as tomatoes and oranges, chocolate, onions, coffee or other caffeinated drinks, fizzy drinks.
Eat in small portions
People with acid reflux disease are advised to eat small portions because eating large portions will put pressure on the lower esophagus and make it more likely to trigger this disease.
Don’t lie down after eating
Wait at least three hours before lying down after eating because gravity usually helps prevent stomach acid from building up. When after eating and then lying down, this can eliminate gravity because if you lie down the body is parallel. As a result, the acid more easily presses the lower esophagus.
Raise the bed
Raising the bed 15-20 cm can help gravity keep stomach acid in the stomach.
Don’t take drugs carelessly
There are a number of medications that can increase the risk of acid reflux disease by relaxing the lower esophagus and can interfere with digestion or further irritate an already inflamed esophagus. These medications include:
– Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.
-Calcium channel blockers, often used to treat high blood pressure.
-Certain asthma medications, including beta-agonists such as albuterol.
Anticholinergics, drugs used to treat conditions such as seasonal allergies and glaucoma.
Bisphosphonates, used to increase bone density.
-Sedatives and pain relievers.
-Some antibiotics
-Potassium
-Iron tablets
If you are taking one of these medicines, talk to your doctor about switching to another one that does not have the same effect on the upper digestive tract. Then, never stop taking prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor.
Stop smoking
Several studies have found nicotine can relax the muscles in the lower esophagus and also interfere with saliva’s ability to expel acid from the stomach esophagus.
Stop drinking alcohol
Like smoking, alcohol can cause the lower esophagus to weaken. Alcohol can also cause the muscles of the esophagus to spasm.
Loose clothing
Do not wear tight clothing or belts that can constrict the stomach.
Avoid foods that contain gluten
Research has found gluten, a protein found in grains such as barley, rye, and wheat, can cause or worsen GERD symptoms.
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