Being Overweight Can Increase Acid Reflux: 10 Tips for Weight Loss

The Effects of Acid Reflux

When stomach acid is produced, it is used to digest the food that we consume during our mealtimes. However, if a person eats too much of a meal, or eats too quickly, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) will relax at the wrong time, making strong stomach juices build up and overflow in the esophagus. This causes the burning sensation known as "heartburn". Acid reflux is considered a chronic condition. If left untreated, the resulting symptoms can lead to more serious medical complications. The most effective way of reducing the negative effects of acid reflux can be controlled by making changes in dietary and eating habits. Maintaining a proper weight range is important in keeping gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) under control.

Acid Reflux and Weight

Being overweight makes for a common risk factor in acid reflux disease. The increased abdominal pressure found in overweight people makes them a higher candidate for related stomach issues. Early studies regarding the connection between acid reflux and body weight were only vaguely conclusive based on the amount of evidence available. However, with more recent field study, acid reflux has been directly linked to even the slightest gains in body weight. Even a person who is not considered overweight can still be prone to acid reflux after gaining a few pounds.

Acid Reflux

The best way to diminish the effects of acid reflux for an overweight person is to take steps to lose weight, and then maintain a consistent body mass. Losing some excess body weight can help with the symptoms. However, scientists have stressed that if a person with an average body weight is dealing with acid reflux, alternative methods of controlling related symptoms should be considered.

Ten Steps to Losing Weight

The best way to keep body weight under control is to establish realistic goals, then make a plan to reach them:

1. Ask your doctor about reaching weight goals suitable for your build. Take into consideration height, build and age, and establish a sensible balance for calorie intake.
2. Exercise is important for any regular body maintenance. It is important to get at least one 30 minute workout a day.
3. Eating controlled portions and keeping within limits will help moderate food intake.
4. Cut down on the fried foods and fatty desserts. It may taste good, but that doesn't mean it's good for the body.
5. Food rich in fiber helps maintain calories.
6. Control the diet. Eat more vegetables and fruit, stick with single servings, and cut back on alcohol.
7. Spoiling oneself with a favorite food is okay, but only in an occasional small amount.
8. Eat foods rich in vitamins and nutrients.
9. Don't believe the "Lose Weight Quick" schemes.
10. Make sure any weight loss classes can meet your needs before joining.

Know Your Limits

Not everyone is the same. An individual needs to take their health limits in consideration before attempting any major lifestyle change.

Sources:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/12/061212213408.htm

http://ezinearticles.com/?Acid-Reflux-and-Weight-Gain&id=281569

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/44383.php

http://www.missico.com/personal/tidbits/health/lose_weight_safely.htm

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