Acid reflux, also called Gastroesophageal reflux (GER), affects around 20 percent of the U.S. population. Aside from the obvious discomfort of heartburn, acid reflux can also lead to a lack of sleep, poor concentration, and depression. Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Joseph Naim are doctors at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA. They specialize in gastric disorders including acid reflux.
What Causes the Burn?
The fiery feeling you experience with acid reflux is due to problems with the lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES). The LES is a small muscular valve that connects the lower end of the esophagus to the stomach. The purpose of the valve is to prevent acid from the stomach from splashing back into the esophagus. If the LES is unable to close properly, acid and other contents from the stomach will travel backward, This causes the burning sensation associated with heartburn and acid reflux.
What Triggers the Burn?
Foods and drinks that can lead to heartburn and acid reflux include:
- Fried foods
- Tomatoes
- Citrus fruits
- High-fat desserts
- Spicy foods
- Oily salad dressings
- Onions
- Dairy foods
- Alcohol
- Coffee and tea
How to Eliminate the Burn
As well as avoiding the food and beverages listed above, there are a number of other things patients can do to avoid heartburn, such as adjusting your diet and your lifestyle in the following ways:
- Cut out alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
- Stop smoking
- Reduce your intake of dairy foods and foods containing gluten
- Avoid spicy, tomato-based or fatty foods
- Avoid junk food and processed foods
- Don’t eat within two hours of going to bed
- Eat small meals throughout the day
If you live in Encino, CA and you suffer from acid reflux on a regular basis you should call Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California at (818) 905-1567 to schedule a consultation.