What are the most effective ways to stop acid reflux?
Controlling acid reflux involves dietary, lifestyle, and medical interventions. Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods (such as tomatoes and citrus). Eating smaller meals more frequently, and avoiding lying down immediately after eating, can help. Elevate the head of your bed and maintain a healthy weight. Chewing gum after meals can neutralize acid, while avoiding smoking and alcohol reduces the risk of reflux. Over-the-counter medications or prescription treatments may also be necessary.More from NIH: GERD and Reflux
See what lists are trending: Trending Lists
1
Consider Antacids or Medications
101
26
Over-the-counter antacids can provide quick relief from occasional acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid. For more persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare provider about medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers.
2
Elevate the Head of Your Bed
102
30
Raising the head of your bed by 6-8 inches can help prevent acid from flowing back up while you sleep. Gravity helps keep stomach acid down, reducing the risk of nighttime reflux. Use foam wedges or bed risers for this purpose.
3
Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals
95
29
Large meals can put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), causing stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. Eating smaller, more frequent meals helps reduce the likelihood of acid reflux. Avoid overeating and leave enough time between meals.
4
Avoid Trigger Foods
89
28
Certain foods, such as spicy dishes, citrus, tomatoes, onions, garlic, caffeine, chocolate, and fatty or fried foods, can trigger acid reflux. Identify and eliminate these triggers from your diet to prevent heartburn and discomfort.
5
Maintain a Healthy Weight
86
29
Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach and LES, leading to acid reflux. Losing even a small amount of weight can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall digestive health.
6
Quit Smoking
100
45
Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and increases the production of stomach acid, making acid reflux more likely. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of reflux symptoms.
7
Stay Upright After Meals
74
21
Lying down after eating can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. To prevent reflux, remain upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating. If you need to rest, try sitting or reclining at an elevated angle.
8
Consult a Doctor for Persistent Symptoms
102
50
If acid reflux occurs frequently or becomes severe, consult a healthcare provider. Chronic acid reflux may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires medical treatment to prevent complications.
9
Eat Low-Acid Foods
85
38
Incorporating low-acid foods, such as bananas, melons, oatmeal, and leafy greens, into your diet can help reduce acid reflux. These foods are less likely to trigger symptoms and can help balance stomach acidity.
10
Drink Water Between Meals
54
11
Drinking too much water during meals can dilute stomach acid and impair digestion. Instead, drink water between meals to stay hydrated without exacerbating acid reflux. This can help reduce bloating and pressure on the LES.
11
Limit Caffeine Intake
43
9
Caffeinated beverages, including coffee, tea, and energy drinks, can increase stomach acid production and worsen acid reflux. Opt for decaffeinated versions or herbal teas to minimize acid reflux symptoms.
12
Avoid Eating Late at Night
46
16
Eating late at night or right before bedtime can increase the risk of acid reflux. Try to finish eating at least 3 hours before lying down to allow your stomach enough time to digest food and reduce the likelihood of nighttime reflux.
13
Avoid Tight Clothing
49
21
Tight-fitting clothing, especially around the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach and force acid up into the esophagus. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help reduce the risk of acid reflux, particularly after meals.
14
Avoid Carbonated Drinks
36
16
Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can cause bloating and put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), leading to acid reflux. Stick to flat water, herbal teas, or non-citrus juices instead.
15
Chew Gum
29
10
Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Opt for sugar-free gum to avoid excess sugar and chew after meals for the best results.
16
Practice Relaxation Techniques
25
12
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate acid reflux by increasing stomach acid production. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce stress and alleviate reflux symptoms.
17
Limit Alcohol Consumption
20
7
Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to escape into the esophagus. Limiting alcohol intake, especially during meals, can help prevent acid reflux. Opt for non-alcoholic beverages whenever possible.
18
Incorporate Ginger into Your Diet
20
8
Ginger is known for its digestive properties and can help reduce acid reflux. Add fresh ginger to meals, drink ginger tea, or try ginger supplements to help soothe your digestive tract and prevent heartburn.
19
Try Herbal Teas
15
6
Herbal teas, such as chamomile, licorice root, and slippery elm, are known to soothe the digestive tract and reduce acid reflux symptoms. Avoid peppermint tea, as it can relax the LES and worsen reflux. Drink after meals for the best effect.
20
Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly
14
5
Eating too quickly can cause you to swallow air and overeat, which increases the risk of acid reflux. Chew food thoroughly and eat at a slower pace to reduce the chances of indigestion and heartburn.