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What Causes Acid Reflux?
Most people don't know, or aren't aware of what causes acid reflux. The truth is that anyone can experience occasional heartburn caused by acid reflux. When you eat an especially heavy, fat-laden or acidic meal the stomach is forced to produce more and more acid to digest it. If you then lift something heavy, or wear too-tight clothing, or lie down too soon after eating, the abundant acids in the stomach back up or reflux into the esophagus and cause the classic symptoms of burning and pain in the chest and upper abdomen. 
Persistent heartburn, though, is another story. If you experience serious heartburn more than twice a week, you may well have acid reflux disease or as it's technically known gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this case not only your diet, but your physical condition and lifestyle habits must be examined to determine the causes of acid reflux. Left untreated, acid reflux can cause serious damage to the esophagus and larynx (vocal cords), and may be a risk factor for asthma.
Physical Causes of Acid Reflux
If you are overweight, you are at high risk for acid reflux or GERD. Make sure you stay in an upright position (sitting or standing) for at least 45 minutes after meals; do not lie down, bend over deeply from the waist,or take a nap after eating. Lying down and taking deep bends force the acids and food back up the esophagus and into the throat. Try taking a 10 - 15 minute walk after each meal. This will aid digestion and maybe in the long run even help you to shed a few pounds. My mom-in-law takes the post-meal walk and feels much better for it.
People who suffer diabetes also are at risk for acid reflux. If these conditions are not treated, they will only get worse which can cause very serious complications.
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscles that connect the esophagus to the stomach may be weak or malfunctioning, causing acid reflux. It's this ring of muscle tissue that is responsible for closing and opening the stomach as food passes through, and keeping acids from backing up. If the LES has lost tone, acid reflux will happen. There are many reasons why the LES might be weak, including using certain drugs, smoking/tobacco use, drinking alcohol (beer, wine, liquor), and problems with the nervous system.
Abnormal or impaired nerve or muscle function in the stomach or esophagus can also cause acid reflux. The esophagus should automatically contract and expand (peristalsis is the fancy term for this) to move food down to the stomach. Likewise the stomach should contract and expand to help break up food solids and process them for absorption by the intestines. If this peristalic motion is impaired, digestive acids may tend to build up. This requires a doctor's attention.
Foods That Cause Acid Reflux
GERD sufferers are often given a list of foods to avoid. This is because the foods in question stimulate the stomach to produce acid in abundance that can potentially back up. Few of them actually cause the LES to weaken and allow the acid to escape the stomach.
There are certain beverages and foods which can aggravate acid reflux, and they include the following:
- chocolate
- coffee
- teas, especially spearmint and peppermint
- alcoholic drinks (these can relax and weaken the LES)
- fruit juices, especially those high in acid
- fatty foods and fried foods
- onions
- citrus fruits
- spicy foods
- foods high in acid/vinegary
- tomatoes and products which are tomato-based
- caffeinated drinks, including sodas
Changing your diet is one of the most effective ways to deal with what causes acid reflux. Try eating smaller meals more frequently. And ditch the junk foods! You may feel deprived at first, but think of what will happen if you continue to eat or drink these beverages and foods.
Start your new diet strategy by keeping a record of your food intake and your's body's reactions. In this manner, you can tell which foods or beverages causes your acid reflux. Every time you experience that burning sensation, take note of what you've actually eaten. Once you've finished the list, put it somewhere where you can easily see it, like the refrigerator.
A lifestyle change may seem rather difficult. Your doctor is essential to help your transition. The very first thing that you should do is to set a goal; like for instance eating small meals, or walking for 30 minutes, while avoiding the above-mentioned foods. Slowly quit smoking and drinking, if you engage in these habits. Of course, you can't expect an overnight miracle. Self-discipline is very important to attain a successful lifestyle change.
While many people are eating antacids and taking over-the-counter drugs to deal with their GERD, others are finding it better to stick with natural remedies. Antacids are not good for your body or stomach over the long run. Once you know what causes acid reflux, you can effectively manage and even cure it.
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