How to prevent stomach burns?

To prevent or alleviate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, the first thing to consider is a proper dietary choice

If you want to enjoy eating and drinking with the occasion of a party or during the holidays, while avoiding the unpleasant consequences over the digestive system (burns, flatulence, bloating), you need to learn some tricks.

In order to keep your fun at high levels and protect your GI tract at the same time, here’s what you can do:

– eat in little bites and chew for a longer period of time to help your system prevent flatulence and bloating
– avoid caffeine, as it stimulates the appetite and you will tend to eat more. This way, the GERD vicious cycle can return. Also, don’t drink too much alcohol, as it can irritate your stomach and intestines and can cause indigestion.
– avoid mashed potatoes, sugar, fresh fruit juice, cookies and pies that can trigger abdominal bloating
– do not eat to much at one meal. Portion control can be extremely important, as it can cause major imbalances of the digestive system.
– eat more salad and stay away from fat sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, tomatoes or onions.
– ginger can prove to be efficient to combat GERD. Cabbage, carrots, peas, broccoli and green beans also have a calming effect.
– choose multi-grain bread or corn-bread instead of white, regular one.

In case none of the above works, try the following remedies:

– sodium and calcium bicarbonate – neutralize gastric acidity and ameliorates the burning sensation
– magnesium milk (magnesium hydroxide) or aluminum hydroxide – anti-acids with a mild laxativ effect

If the discomfort created by stomach burns or bloating persists, ask the advice of a medical specialists in order for you to make sure you’re receiving an adequate treatment for your condition.