While occasional heartburn—which happens when stomach acid splashes up into the esophagus—is unpleasant, persistent acid reflux can be serious.
Lose weight
Losing weight and maintaining a healthy body size is one of the surest ways to keep acid reflux at bay.
One study of more than 10,000 women found that even a relatively small increase in body mass index could triple the odds of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is persistent acid reflux.
Eat right
Eating the wrong foods can worsen acid reflux, either by increasing the acidic environment of the stomach or by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve that acts as a barrier between the stomach and the esophagus.
Cut back on alcohol
Boozing is losing when it comes to acid reflux, because alcohol can increase the stomach's acidity.
Limit soda
Typical soda drinks like Pepsi or Coke contain citrus as well as sodium benzoate and other chemicals that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, says Dr. Chutkan.
Don't smoke
Smoking can cause reflux not only because it increases acid production in the stomach, but also because it has a relaxing effect on the valve between the esophagus and the stomach.
Avoid caffeine
Like smoking, caffeine ups acid production in the stomach and opens the lower esophageal sphincter.
Check your meds
Certain medications can raise the risk of acid reflux.
These include bone-strengthening drugs such as bisphosphonates, certain blood pressure drugs, asthma medications containing theophylline, iron and potassium supplements, certain antibiotics (tetracycline is one), as well as aspirin and ibuprofen, and even fish oil supplements.
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