Acid reflux can turn a great meal and time with family and friends into a nightmare. The burning sensation can suck the joy from the mood and take you away from the things most important to you. And when it’s the summertime, the disappointment hits a little harder. There are only a few short months to enjoy the seasonal cookouts, and you want to make the most of it.
Heartburn can be treated naturally; it just takes a little work. But for the most part, it’s pretty easy. Here are some ways you can avoid heartburn and make the most of summer meals with family and friends.
- Eat less: One of the easiest ways—or perhaps controllable way—is to slow down. One of the biggest causes of heartburn is that people eat too much, too fast. By slowing down, enjoying your food and allowing the body to adequately respond and adapt to food intake can reduce the risk of heartburn.
- Chew gum: Chewing gum can be a quick and effective way of relieving a bout of acid reflux. Research indicates that gum can reduce acid in the esophagus, especially when it contains bicarbonate.
- Avoid certain foods: Fatty and greasy foods can contribute to acid reflux, as can spice. If you’re at a cookout or order in some greasy stuff, be sure to pick at it sparingly. Instead, opt for filling your plate with more vegetables and leaner cuts of meat.
- Consider your bedtime: There is conflicting evidence on whether or not this works, but eating too close to bedtime may stimulate acid reflux. It could be the position of the body that brings it on. If you experience heartburn when you’re in bed, try to avoid eating within three hours of bedtime.
- Don’t move too fast: Eating a meal right before playing with the grandkids is not a good idea. Give yourself about 30–45 minutes after a meal before moving too quickly, and you should be able to avoid acid reflux.
- Ease up on the alcohol: Another culprit for acid reflux, drinking alcohol excessively can cause problems. Try to cut back and only drink in moderation.
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Don’t let acid reflux hold you back from enjoying all the great times this summer. Be smart, keep things under control, and have a great time!
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
