Maintain a Moderate Bodyweight
You can reduce heartburn and acid reflux by losing weight if you are overweight. According to the Obesity Action Coalition, adults who are obese or have a high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to have more incidences of acid reflux. [10] This is because excess abdominal fat applies pressure on the stomach and increases the effort needed to keep acid from flowing back up.
The extra weight spreads the muscles that support the lower esophageal sphincter. [11] This is the ring of muscle at the lower end of the esophagus, near the stomach. It helps prevent contents of the stomach from flowing up the esophagus. Being overweight can decrease the pressure that keeps the ring closed, increasing the possibility of acid reflux and heartburn.
Losing weight can help you reduce acid reflux, but you should only do it in safe ways. If you already have a moderate weight, you should focus on other ways of taking care of GERD.