Acid reflux occurs when the gastric acid returns to the esophagus. This should not happen because there is a valve that functions to prevent acid reflux. When stress occurs, the pressure in the valve will decrease, so the work function is not optimal.
On the other hand, in response to stress and anxiety, the muscles around the stomach will tighten. In contrast, the production of stomach acid is higher. When that happens, the pressure on the organs will get stronger and eventually cause a lot of acid to be pushed up. This condition gets worse when the anxiety gets worse.
Several other factors cause acid reflux, namely:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoke
- Hiatal hernia
- Consumption of certain medication
Manage Stress to Prevent Acid Reflux
Of course, because the cause of acid reflux is stress, the way to avoid it is to reduce the stress by managing it. Although we know this is easier said than done. The better the stress management, the better a person's feelings and mood. Some things that can be done are:
1. Exercise
Exercise helps loosen tight muscles and stimulates natural hormone production, which makes you feel more relaxed. For those who are overweight, exercise will help you lose weight, reducing the pressure on your stomach. In addition to strenuous exercise, you can also do relaxation exercises, such as yoga or meditation.
Increase the frequency of exercise to reduce stress
2. Avoid Trigger Foods
Several foods trigger acid reflux, such as acidic foods (oranges, lemons, tomatoes, pineapples), alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, high-fat foods, spicy foods, and mint leaves. Eat slowly in a relaxed mood, avoid eating large portions, and don't go to bed immediately after eating.
Changing your diet may not be enough to reduce symptoms. Therefore, it can also be strengthened by taking medication, such as antacids, H2 blockers (reducing stomach acid), and proton pump inhibitors (reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach).
Avoid eating acidic foods, especially on an empty stomach
3. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is a natural stress reducer. So, enough sleep can avoid stress. On the other hand, less stress can lead to more restful sleep. The two have a two-way relationship. If you are afraid of acid reflux, try sleeping with your head higher than your body.
4. Spend time doing things you like and make you laugh
Doing a hobby is one of the best coping with stress. For example, cycling in the morning, watching comedy movies, listening to music, or hanging out with friends. If you have pets, it might be even better. These activities can make you laugh and calm your feelings to avoid stress.
So, one of the causes of acid reflux is stress or anxiety. The best way to do this is to manage stress well, for example, by exercising, avoiding triggering foods, getting enough sleep, and spending time doing what you like. If the symptoms are still there, consider consulting a doctor, you can consult Fitie!
Acid reflux is often associated with stress and anxiety. For example, when you receive news that a family member is in the hospital or at any time before a job interview. Is there any relationship between the two? Can it be avoided? Let's continue reading this article!
Acid reflux is often associated with stress and anxiety. For example, when you receive news that a family member is in the hospital or at any time before a job interview. Is there any relationship between the two? Can it be avoided? Let's, continue reading this article!