What is Acid Reflux? And Why Is It Happening To You?

Acid reflux is a condition that affects thousands of Americans. From a one-time occurrence, to an everyday event, it's a side effect that can make it less than comfortable to eat, at best. At worst, acid reflux makes it downright painful and uncomfortable to eat even the most mild or gentle of meals. This is caused by stomach contents that leak back into the esophagus, most often as acid or digesting foods. (Hence the "acid reflux" name.) This can take place for a number of reasons, but most generally happens with heavy or spicy foods, as they require more acid in order to break down. However, it can also happen when eating too close to bedtime. Without gravity to help hold stomach contents in place, they are more likely to creep back up into the system. However, others simply have bad luck; genetics are against them and cause acid reflux to take place, even with other factors are kept to a minimum.

Why Do YOU Have Acid Reflux?

First off, ask different family members to determine if acid reflux runs in the family. Some might not even know that they've been suffering (especially if they're dealing with a particularly mild case). If so, there's a good chance you could have a genetic case of acid reflux. If not, look into eating habits about what may or may not be causing your pains.

In either scenario, you can look toward outside factors to either eliminate or lessen your acid reflux side effects.

Such as:

Meal times – are you eating too close to bedtime? Do you consume heavy foods? Or snack within two hours of your bedtime? If so, there is a good chance your body isn't finished digesting as you climb into bed. Plan to eat your meals a little sooner (or go to bed a little later – that includes lounge time; the body needs gravity on its side) in order to reduce acid reflux symptoms.

Meal consistencies – consuming rich or spicy foods can also flare up one's case of acid reflux. Because these types of meals take the body longer to break down and digest, it also means there is a higher chance at developing acid reflux after consuming rich foods. If possible, cut down on heavy dishes and stick with lighter choices instead. Whenever you do get a craving for hard-to-break-down foods – or on special occasions – be sure to adjust your schedule accordingly for ample digestion time.

Sleeping positions – acid reflux is a battle against gravity. Sometimes the acid is so active that it lifts itself back up into the esophagus. Other times the throat is at fault, and fails to follow through with its goalie duties. In either scenario (or at times when they work together), you can help to keep stomach acid in place with gravity. Sleep on an wedge cushion or at an incline supporting your upper back to encourage stomach contents to stay down where they belong: in the stomach.

If You Still Have Acid Reflux:

If none of the above are keeping your symptoms at bay, it might be time to talk with a doctor. Or, you can look toward natural remedies such as peppermint tea, milk, or other soothing liquids that help calm the stomach. Daily medicines are also designed to eliminate stomach acid and encourage a timely breakdown, or keep it in place after eating, which can help get rid of your ongoing symptoms.

Be sure to check back in for even more updates on acid reflux, or tell us about your own story below.