Acid reflux occurs when the flap at the top of the stomach is not working properly and acid is allowed to pass up into the esophagus. The acids are produced in the stomach and aid in digestion but when they reach the esophagus they cause pain, burning, and in some cases damage to the tissue of the esophagus. Mild and infrequent bouts can be eased with the use of an over the counter heartburn medication. Daily symptoms and those resulting in severe pain and discomfort may require prescription medication. Whatever the case, there are natural remedies and adjustments you can make to your diet and lifestyle that will ease your symptoms.

The acid in your stomach is said to be so corrosive it can strip the paint from a car. No wonder its affect on the body is so damaging. Obviously, stopping the acid from making it up the esophagus would be a good way to better the situation. One quick and easy fix is to elevate the head and upper body, when lying down, to help keep the acid down. You can accomplish this by actually raising the head of the bed a bit higher or simply using pillows to create an incline. In this instance, though, be mindful of the alignment of your lower back as your experiment for a comfy position that keeps your head up. Otherwise you risk creating a recurring dull pain in your lower back.

Another simple defense against the back flow of stomach fluids is to avoid eating 3 to 4 hours from bedtime whenever possible. This will decrease the freshly created pepsin, bile and acid in your stomach which means less backflow when you lay down for bed.

Minding your diet is another good tool. In addition to the trigger foods listed below, track your diet to find what causes an uncomfortable reaction in your body. Some of the more common reflux instigating foods include caffeine, carbonation, chocolate, citrus, chips, fatty & spicy foods, garlic, fried food, tomatoes and sauce, mint, and donuts. Acid reflux is a very common condition that affects 15 million Americans. In addition to these natural remedies you can try an aluminum free antacid such as Rolaids, Tums, Milk of Magnesia, and Alka Seltzer. If severe symptoms persist, consult your doctor for a prescription remedy, but still adopt these tips into your lifestyle for maximum relief.