7 Habits That Cause Gastroesophageal Reflux
Not spending enough time chewing your food well can lead to acid reflux. Although many ignore it, it is the first step towards an optimal digestive process.
There are several habits that cause or can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease. This is a digestive problem that develops when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and mouth, causing irritation.
It usually occurs after eating too large dishes, but it also appears due to certain diseases. Its main symptom is a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by chest pain and swallowing problems.
In some people it occurs sporadically, while others suffer from it moderately or severely, several times a week. Taking antacids can control it. However, in general, it is essential to know the causes in order to fight it effectively.
Therefore, below we want to review its symptoms and some habits related to its occurrence.
Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease
The clinical manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease can vary in each person, depending on its cause. It is often described as a burn in the breastbone and the sensation of having a lump in the throat. However, it is also possible to suffer from:
- Increased salivation.
- Regurgitation of acidic foods or liquids.
- A chronic cough.
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Snoring and sleeping problems.
- Swelling and belching of the abdomen.
Habits that can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease
The development of gastroesophageal reflux involves an imbalance between aggressive and defensive factors in the esophageal lining. In addition, it indicates a weakening of the sphincters that regulate the passage of acidic juices.
The following habits cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, or rather, are its possible triggers:
1. Eat irritating foods
The composition of certain foods or their wrong combination in the same dish can cause episodes with this problem. These produce an impaired production of acidic juices in the stomach, weakening the mucous membranes.
The most common are:
- Refined flour.
- Stuffed meats.
- Fried foods and industrial snacks.
- Spicy seasonings.
- Industrial breads and pastries.
- Canned food.
- Dressings and sauces.
- Mature cheeses.
- Coffee and products containing caffeine.
2. Smoke
Daily smoking is one of the factors or habits that cause gastroesophageal reflux disease. First, tobacco toxins interfere with the production of saliva. This helps neutralize the action of acids to prevent heartburn. Therefore, this process is hampered.
On the other hand, it causes dehydration of the mouth and throat. In turn, this facilitates irritation in the presence of acids. So, to control this problem, it is essential to quit smoking.
3. Wear tight clothes
Although it is not known to many, wearing tight clothing influences the recurrence of this symptom. Clothing such as pants, belts, or t-shirts can increase intra-abdominal pressure. This can promote the discharge of the acid content in the esophagus.
4. Adopt a bad posture
Eating lying down or adopting a bad posture after eating are factors linked to reflux. This increases abdominal contractions and makes it easier for acidic juices to return to the upper body.
5. Do not chew properly
One of the main recommendations for avoiding gastroesophageal reflux disease is to chew your food well before swallowing it. Although it’s easy to forget, it’s the first step in an optimal digestion process.
Eating very whole foods wastes important enzymes and slows down the function of the stomach. As a result, the secretion of acidic juices increases and, as a result, heartburn.
6. Consume alcohol
Another habit that causes gastroesophageal reflux is undoubtedly the consumption of alcohol. Harmful compounds in alcoholic beverages overload the work of the liver and slow down the digestive process.
On the other hand, they block the function of the one-way valve which is responsible for preventing the upward flow of gastric contents to the esophagus.
For this reason, excessive alcohol consumption worsens reflux and causes irritation to the lining of the stomach. Symptoms may be worse if there is a history of gastritis or ulcers.
7. Being exposed to stress
People who are constantly exposed to stressful situations have more difficulty controlling gastroesophageal reflux attacks. This emotional state triggers reactions in the nervous system that alter many of the processes that take place in the digestive tract.
Stress also increases the secretion of stimulating substances such as adrenaline. This, in turn, is linked to an increase in the production of acidic juices.
Beware of these symptoms!
Have you just identified one of those habits that cause you to have gastroesophageal reflux disease? Try to avoid them now to facilitate the relief of this problem. If this persists, see your doctor to determine if it is due to a more serious condition.
