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Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux

Overview of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux (AR), also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a malfunctioning [1] of the digestive system, in which digestive juices flow into the esophagus, irritating the lining.

Acid reflux is often used to describe this condition when it’s at a mild or early stage. If you start to experience symptoms more than two times in seven days, it may indicate that the disease has worsened, known as GERD.

The symptoms for this condition are distinct, making it self-diagnosable; however, it is best to visit your medical practitioner for the correct diagnosis and available treatment options.

Let’s take a look at some underlying diseases [2] that can trigger acid reflux:

Obese or overweight persons suffer a high risk of developing GERD. The excess weight puts pressure on the internal organs, including the stomach, which can cause the stomach contents to backflow into the food pipe. Obesity has been described as the leading cause of AR.

A peptic or stomach ulcer is when you have a high acid content in the stomach. Ulcer patients often complain about a burning sensation in the upper stomach or chest. The overproduction of stomach acids allows a backflow into the food pipe, causing frequent heartburns or chest pains.

Asthmatic people often complain about the symptoms of acid reflux, but there has been no direct link between the two. Studies have shown that if you are suffering from asthma and later develop GERD, the latter can worsen symptoms of the former.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) places you at a high risk of developing GERD. It causes difficulty swallowing, which can cause spasms in the esophagus, leading to acid reflux.

Esophagitis is a condition caused by the inflammation (swelling) or irritation of the esophagus. An inflamed food pipe increases the risk of backflow of gastric juices and is bound to happen frequently.

Hiatal hernia is a direct cause of acid reflux, but it allows food to flow easily back into the esophagus. Other symptoms of this condition like coughing or vomiting may increase abdominal pressure, triggering acid reflux.