GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) is a condition that results in stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. It causes sore throats and hoarseness, and you feel a constant bad taste in the mouth. It is also known as acid reflux. Below are some lifestyle tips for effectively managing GERD.

Eat slowly and in a small amount
Acid reflux can become more of a problem if a person’s stomach is too full. This can be managed by eating in a small amount and more frequently. This way, you will make sure that your stomach is never too full without having to eat less. Also, eating slowly can help with the condition.

Eating right
There was a time when people with GERD were asked to avoid most food items. However, those days are thankfully in the past. But there are still certain foods that are not good for you if you suffer from acid reflux. Mint, spicy foods, fatty foods, tomatoes, garlic, onions, tea, coffee, alcohol, and chocolate are known for triggering GERD. Hence, excluding them from the diet can help. Carbonated beverages can lead to acid reflux too, which is why you should replace them with regular water.

Do not lie down after eating
One of the lifestyle tips for managing GERD that work for most people is staying upright after eating. When you are sitting or standing, the acid is less likely to flow up due to gravity. To maintain this habit, you must not go to bed for at least 3 hours after eating your meal. You should also avoid midnight snacking. However, remember than being too physical after eating can make the condition worse. You can go for a walk after a meal, but avoid exercising or moving too fast. That can force stomach acid upward.

Right sleeping position
When you sleep, your head should always remain at least 6-inches higher than the feet. Upper body support made of foam wedge can help with that.

Control your weight
If a person is overweight, then acid reflux can become difficult to manage. The lower esophageal sphincter of your body is supported by a muscle structure, which spreads more if you gain weight. It becomes harder for the sphincter to remain closed with decreased pressure. Hence, managing your weight is important to keep acid reflux under control.

Medicinal side effects
Certain medicines can cause side effects that lead to GERD. Avoiding those is one of the lifestyle tips for managing GERD that can be really helpful. Consult your doctor about such side effects, as he or she can prescribe you the alternative medication.

If none of these are helpful enough, then a person may require additional medical treatments to cure or manage GERD.