Natural Cures

Acid Reflux 101. A Quick Overview on Acid Reflux, Esophagus and LES

Young or old, everybody will experience acid reflux (heartburn) during some part or their life. Therefore, it is important you understand what is occurring in your body so you can make the best possible decision in treating acid reflux. The following is a quick lesson in acid reflux, your esophagus and LES.

The Esophagus

The esophagus is a muscular tube that runs from the back of your throat to the upper stomach. The esophagus is lined with a mucous membrane, and is more deeply lined with muscle that acts to move food. As you eat food, the muscular channel contracts and pushes the food downward toward your stomach. The contractions which push the food downward is called peristalsis. It takes about 15 seconds for the food you swallow to travel through the esophagus and reach your stomach.

The LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter)

The LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter) is located at the very bottom of the esophagus. Simply put, the LES allows food to enter your stomach. Once the food passes through the valve, the LES closes tightly so that food cannot travel back up causing acid reflux. A normal functioning LES prevents food and stomach acid from coming back up the esophagus.

Acid Reflux, Heartburn, GERD

At its most basic, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach backs up (refluxes) and the liquid content contained within it returns to the esophagus. If the liquid were something like water, there’d be no problem. However, the liquid most often contains acid, pepsin (an enzyme that aids in digestion), and even bile. Over time, these agents can cause significant damage because of the concentration of acid within the liquid is often significantly higher and the liquid itself stays in the esophagus-where it can do its damage-longer than in normal individuals.

Millions of people experience acid reflux (stomach acid entering the esophagus) which causes a burning sensation. The burning sensation is commonly termed heartburn. The more frequent the heartburn, the more likely the sufferer is prone to Barrett’s esophagus where the lining of the esophagus erodes away. The long-term GERD or acid reflux can cause an esophageal ulcer and even cancer.

The condition of the LES valve is absolutely necessary for overall good health. By allowing yourself to suffer from acid reflux (heartburn) continually, you could be putting yourself at a major medical risk and it eventually could be deadly. There are numerous causes to GERD or acid reflux and it is important you continue to educate yourself and seek treatment.

A Good Starting Point to Cure Acid Reflux

Depending on how severe your GERD is, treatment may involve one or more of the following lifestyle changes and medications or surgery. Here is a list of lifestyle changes you might want to consider:

If you smoke, stop.

Do not drink alcohol.

Lose weight if needed.

Eat smaller meals.

Wear loose-fitting clothing.

Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.

Raise the head of your bead 6 to 8 inches by putting blocks of wood under the bedposts- just using extra pillows will not help.

Say Good Bye to Acid Reflux

Finally, be pro-active! Did you know that you can cure your acid reflux naturally… GUARANTEED! Learn more lifestyle changes, learn what foods you should eat and stay away from, learn what home-remedies give you instant relief from heartburn, learn body exercises to strengthen your LES, and take control of your acid reflux today! Take a minute and see what others are saying about our guaranteed research-based report on acid reflux and cure yourself in 2 hours!

http://www.refluxremedy.com/apple

About The Author

Joe Barton writes for Barton Publishing Inc, a natural health company specializing in research and educating people on safe and affordable natural remedies To cure your acid reflux in hours guaranteed, click here!

http://www.refluxremedy.com/apple

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Acid Reflux Recovery Diet And Recipes

Curing oneself of the condition called acid reflux can be accomplished by using natural, healthy methods. I suffered from this condition for years, taking harmful, expensive PPI drugs (proton inhibitors), which only masked the symptoms. These drugs, not only had myriad side effects, but became ineffective over time. I was forced to find another answer. I wanted to cure myself without the use of drugs. My doctor was no help. He didn’t have a clue about natural healing and nutrition. After a great deal of research I discover that with the proper use of herbs, health store items, meditation, exercise and diet, one can heal themselves of acid reflux.

The first thing that I learned is that acid reflux, sometimes called gerd (gastro esophageal reflux disease), is not a disease at all. Contrary to what the medical community would have us believe, it is simply a condition, brought on by poor eating habits. Besides eating the wrong foods, not chewing food properly is probably the root cause of this ailment.

The Acid reflux condition would not exist without a damaged esophagus and a weakened LES (lower esophageal sphincter). If the condition is to be eliminated, healing the esophagus must be the first order of business.

During this reflux recovery period, eating anything which could irritate or damage the esophagus, must be avoided. Things like poorly chewed chips, crackers, cereal or any hard foods with sharp edges are culinary culprits - they cause little lacerations to develop in the esophagus. Until the lacerations have had a chance to heal, spicy foods, such as acidic tomato products, hot peppers, raw garlic and raw onions should also be eliminated from the diet. They just further irritate the condition. Smoking and drinking alcohol relax the LES, allowing stomach acid to splash up into the esophagus, thus impeding the healing process.

The key to acid reflux recovery is to eat only mild, easy to digest food until the esophagus has healed. Eat early, giving yourself at least three hours of sitting or walking time before lying down. Eat slowly and chew your food completely. Last, but not least, try to eat in a relaxed, pleasant and stress free environment.

I have listed a few of my favorite recipes that I enjoyed during my own recovery period. They can be made quickly and easily. Try doubling these recipes so that you can reheat them later in the week… less time in the kitchen. Remember that cooking from scratch, instead of relying on convenience foods, is a better approach to good health, in general. It’s also nice to know what you’re really eating.

For breakfast, I believe that fresh fruit is the best way to go. I especially like melon and papaya. For lunch I eat more fruit like apples, bananas and, perhaps some almonds, or walnuts. It’s better to eat many little healthy meals during the day. I try to buy only organic fruits, however, sometimes when I am rushed, I purchase “ready to go” containers of mixed fruit at the grocery store. Try to stay away from pineapple, as I find it hard to digest.

How about starters in the evening? Serving vegetables raw is the ultimate healthy way to present them.

Try creating a beautiful platter of crudité (crew di tay) better known as elegant rabbit food. Serve it with a savory tofu dip. Use cauliflower, broccoli, English cucumbers, radishes, green & yellow zucchinis, Belgium endive, carrot sticks, whole small mushrooms, or whatever appeals to you. Cut the vegetables in bite size pieces for dipping. The Belgium endive is a natural edible scoop for dipping. Just cut off the ends and peel off the leaves.

Make the tofu dip by putting one package of soft or silken tofu in a food processor or blender, adding garlic powder, cumin, paprika and chopped chives or parsley for flavor and color. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Add a little fresh squeezed lemon juice if the mixture is too thick. Process until smooth and creamy. If you are in a rush, ready made dips and raw vegetable platters are available in the produce sections of most supermarkets, but make a concerted effort to eat only organic, if possible.

I hope that you enjoy the following dishes. Even though I have cured myself of acid reflux, I still serve these recipes on a regular basis. I prefer food slightly under cooked. Feel free to adjust the cooking times and seasonings according to your own taste.

Bon appetite!

Sautéed White Fish On A Bed Of Mashed Potatoes

This recipe is for one serving. Increase the ingredients for additional servings as needed.

* One 4oz filet of white fish (orange roughly, sole, turbot, flounder, etc) * One med. Potato * Steamed green vegetable such as broccoli, spinach, peas or asparagus * Parsley or chives for garnish * 1/4 tbsp unsalted butter, olive oil or Pam

We will start with the potatoes because they take the longest to cook and they tend to retain their heat the longest. (The fish and vegetable take only minutes to cook.)

Peel and cube potato. Place in cold water to cover. Bring to the boil, and then simmer until fork tender. Drain, leaving just enough cooking liquid for mashing or whipping. You may also use the vegetable broth (recipe below) instead. Add salt to taste. Hold in a warm place.

Season fish with salt and pepper to taste. Place non-stick sauté pan over med high heat. Add butter, oil or spray with Pam. When not quite smoking, add fish. Cook two minutes, turn and cook other side for two minutes, or until the filet is light brown and cooked through. If the filet is very thin, one minute on each side may be enough. (You can broil or bake the fish if desired)

Serve fish on top of mashed potatoes, surrounded by the steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Vegetable Broth

This broth is very alkaline and rich in minerals. It can be served as a simple soup, or used as a stock (as above) for cooking. Cook and save the potatoes and beets to use as a vegetable side dish or to add to soup.

* 2 cups red skinned potato peelings * 3 cups celery stalk * 2 cups celery tops * 2 cups beet tops * 1 small zucchini or yellow squash * 2 cups carrots * One small onion * Sprig of parsley * 2-1/2 quarts distilled water

Chop all vegetables into very fine pieces. Place in water and bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Strain & refrigerate for future use.

Note: By cooking pearled barley in the finished broth with the addition of chopped vegetables, one can prepare a healthy soup for a first course.

Pasta Primavera

Primavera means “spring” in Italian. This pasta dish offers a great opportunity to use all the wonderful fresh spring vegetables at your disposal. However, you can make this dish anytime of the year by using whatever fresh vegetables you can find at your food market. I have chosen a mixture of vegetables that I happen to love, for this recipe. You can use these or replace them with your favorites. During the reflux healing period, try to stay away from tomatoes, raw onions and raw garlic. I have included garlic in this recipe (*see note regarding roasted garlic). If you can tolerate a little garlic, then make sure to cook it well at a low temperature, without browning it. If you want to be a bit daring, you can add the optional cup of heavy cream. You may substitute parsley for the basil and the penne regatta for fettuccini, or another pasta. The whole family can enjoy this classic pasta dish.

* 1 cup sliced mushrooms * 1 cup sliced carrots * 1 cup baby peas * 1 cup sliced asparagus spears * 1 cup snow peas or sugar snaps * 2 cloves garlic finely chopped or roasted * 1 lb. penne regatta * 1 tsp. salt * 3 tbsp extra virgin, first cold pressed olive oil * 1/2 cup shredded basil * 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese * 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Place a steamer basket in a pot with a small amount of water and bring to the boil. Place vegetables in basket, cover and steam until tender (about 4 minutes). Rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking and preserve the color, and drain.

To a large pot of boiling water, add salt and the penne regatta. Cook uncovered according to the instructions on box, preferably al dente.

Meanwhile in a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook at a low flame for a couple of minutes (do not brown). Add the steamed vegetables and optional heavy cream and raise the heat to medium. Cook just enough to heat.

Drain the pasta and add to the sauté pan and mix well.

Sprinkle with Parmigianino Reggiano, and shredded basil. Heat the dish thoroughly and serve. If the dish needs more salt, use extra cheese instead, at the table. Serve this dish with a heart of romaine salad with lemon chive dressing (recipe below)

NOTE: It takes more than two cloves of roasted garlic, for this recipe. On a sheet of aluminum foil place two heads of garlic and cut the stem end off with a knife. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and wrap tightly. Bake in a 400 degree oven for one hour. When cool enough to handle, squeeze out the roasted garlic, into a bowl, discarding the shells. Mash well with a fork.

Another use for roasted garlic is my version of pesto sauce. I use walnuts instead of pine nuts, which I find indigestible, with the roasted garlic and basil. Use whatever proportion you like and drizzle first pressed, extra virgin olive oil into the blender. If your sauce is too thin, adjust with more walnuts, basil and garlic. If it is too thick, use more olive oil. This is all a matter of taste. Serve with your favorite pasta. I prefer linguini or fettuccini.

Lemon Chive Salad Dressing

This is a simple, yet classic vinaigrette for green salads. Use heart of Romaine, Boston or Bipp lettuce. Make this dressing and hour or so before serving, in order that the chive flavor is fully incorporated. Remember to toss well before serving. The advantage here is using lemon juice, instead of vinegar. I find that lemon juice becomes alkaline after being ingested.

* 1 lemon juiced * Sea salt (pinch) * 3 tbsp. extra fine sugar * 6 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil * 6 tbsp. minced chives (you can’t have too many) * Freshly ground black pepper

Combine lemon juice, salt and sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Continue whisking in the olive oil, chives and several grinds of pepper. Keep whisking until dressing is emulsified.

NOTE: You can make this dressing for two by reducing the lemon juice to two tbsp. and the other ingredients by 1/3.

Keep left over dressing in a jar in fridge for future use. It will keep for about a week.

Savory Lentils With Texmati Brown Rice

* 1 lb of organic lentils (2 1/2 cups), rinsed * 8 cups water or stock * 1 onion, chopped * 3 cloves of garlic, chopped * 2 carrots, sliced * 2 stalks celery, chopped * 1 bay leaf * 2 sprigs of thyme, or 1/2 tsp dried * Organic Texmati brown rice (follow instructions on package)

To a large pot bring water and lentils to a boil. Add other ingredients. Reduce to the simmer, partially covered. Cook until tender (about 20 to 30 minutes), stirring occasionally and adding more liquid as needed.. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve over organic Texmati brown rice. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with a light green salad, dressed with the lemon chive dressing above.

Baked Chicken Breasts on Mushroom Caps With Steamed Broccoli And New Potatoes

* 6 chicken breasts (either bone in or halves with skin on) * 1 tsp dried thyme * Olive oil * 6 large Portobello mushrooms (or enough smaller mushrooms to cover the bottom of the baking pan) * 1 tbsp minced garlic * Salt & pepper to taste * 2 cups dry white wine or dry vermouth * 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

Place rack in center of oven and preheat to 400 degrees.

Into a lightly oiled baking pan, large enough to hold chicken breasts, arrange mushrooms gill side down. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt & pepper. Pour wine over mushrooms. Place chicken breasts skin side up over mushrooms and brush with olive oil.

Bake uncovered about 20 minutes, until the breasts are golden brown. If the wine has evaporated during the cooking process, add a little more (for those of you who can’t tolerate alcohol, keep in mind that it burns off during the cooking process, leaving only the flavor).

Baste the breasts with the pan juices and turn over. Cook until breasts are completely done and springy to the finger, about 15 minutes more.

With a slotted spoon, place the chicken and mushrooms on a platter, mushrooms on the bottom and breasts on top, skin side up. Skim off excess fat and spoon juices over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley.

Serve with steamed broccoli and boiled new potatoes. (Substitute brown rice for potatoes, if desired)

Stir Fried Shrimp And Vegetables Served Over Millet, Brown Rice Or Quinoa

* 3 tbsp Canola oil * 1 lb. raw medium peeled shrimp * 2 cups broccoli florets * 2 cups sliced mushrooms * 4 scallions, trimmed and chopped * 2 tbsp Garlic, minced * 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced * 1 cup cold vegetable broth (see recipe above), mixed with 2tbsps, cornstarch * 1 package of organic millet

Into a hot wok or sauté pan pour oil until just smoking.

Add vegetables and stir constantly to cook al dente.

Add shrimp and continue to stir until just turning pink.

Add broth and cover for a couple of minutes until shrimp is almost done.

Uncover and add cornstarch mixture, stir until thickened and turn off heat.

Serve over millet cooked according to package instructions.

Season to taste with tamari light soy sauce.

NOTE: This dish must be done very quickly, as you don’t want to over cook the shrimp or the vegetables. I have chosen Millet because it is an extremely alkaline grain. It is neutral in taste and will absorb the flavors of this dish. You may substitute brown rice instead.

Bon Appetite!

About The Author

Charles Stewart Richey resides in Pike County, PA. Mr. Richey is a self-educated expert on how to cure acid reflux disease, by natural means and has written an extensive report entitled, “REFLUX GONE FOREVER, Natural Acid Reflux Remedies”. He explains how the proper application of herbs, health store items, meditation, diet and exercise can heal acid reflux, gerd and heartburn, without the use of drugs. For information on how to heal acid reflux the natural way, go to: http://www.refluxgoneforever.com

“Heartburn No MoreTM” The Only Holistic System In ExistenceThat Will Teach YOU How To Permanently Cure Your Acid Reflux, Regain Your Natural Inner Balance and Achieve LASTING Freedom From All Digestive Disorders! “The Heartburn No MoreTM system” is a 150 page downloadable e-book, jam-packed cover to cover with all the secret natural heartburn cure methods, unique powerful techniques and the step-by step holistic acid reflux system I’ve discovered in over 11 years of heartburn research. This program contains all the information you’ll ever need to eliminate your heartburn permanently without antacids and without using drugs and without any side effects. To Get Additional Information About “Heartburn No More” Click Here Now!

Acid Reflux! The Cause, the Symptoms and the Natural Treatment!

by: Bob Barton

The Cause of Acid Reflux!

There are numerous causes to Acid Reflux but knowing them could possibly allow you to find your problem. It might be a small habit you need to change or a drastic lifestyle make-over. Whatever the cause, it is necessary for you to take it seriously and make the adjustment quickly. The following is a list of causes for Acid Reflux:

1. Too much caffeine (coffee, tea, soda and chocolate) can cause Acid Reflux.

2. Consumption of alcohol (wine or beer) can cause Acid Reflux.

3. Smoking cigarettes can cause Acid Reflux.

4. Eating large meals can cause Acid Reflux.

5. Eating 2-3 hours before bedtime can cause Acid Reflux.

6. High-fat foods (especially fried foods) can cause Acid Reflux.

7. Foods containing tomatoes cause Acid Reflux.

8. Fruits and fruit juices cause Acid Reflux.

9. Tight fitting clothes around mid-section can cause Acid Reflux.

The Symptoms of Acid Reflux!

At its most basic, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach backs up (refluxes) and the acid within returns to the esophagus. If you are wondering if you suffer from acid reflux, the following are typical symptoms of Acid Reflux:

1. Heartburn (burning sensation ranging from upper stomach to lower chest)

2. Regurgitation (food brought back up into mouth)

3. Slight to Harsh Chest Pains

4. Difficulty in swallowing

5. Hoarseness in speaking

6. Dental erosion from stomach acids in mouth and throat

7. Asthma and/or cough

A Simple Start to Naturally Treat Acid Reflux!

My name is Bob Barton and I have been naturally cured from Acid Reflux for years! It wasn’t always this easy though. Over 30 years ago, I almost lost my life while on the operating table for stomach surgery caused by stomach acid eating a hole in my esophagus! Thanks to God and a simple apple, I discovered a natural way to treat my acid reflux. And 3 decades later, I haven’t stopped discovering natural remedies for heartburn/acid reflux/GERD! Over the years, my research-based website and reports have helped over a thousand reflux sufferers with a 97% success rate! I have dedicated my life to the business of helping people live acid reflux-free lives. To get you started with naturally treating your Acid Reflux, please follow these Reflux Rules!

Acid Reflux Lifestyle Changes to Make:

1. Stop smoking today! You need to finally make this change for good!

2. Stop drinking alcohol!

3. Exercise! Find a fitness center that works for you. Many fitness centers are open 24 hours a day. If not, go for a walk 15 minutes a day!

4. Eat small meals! You should eat 5 meals a day (not 3 big meals). The meals should be smaller than the size of your fist.

5. Wear loose clothes! You don’t have to look like a clown. Just find something that is not tight on your abdominal region.

6. Avoid lying down for at least 3 hours after a meal. (You might need to get a watch!)

7. Raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches by putting wooden blocks under front bedposts. (This is better than extra pillows)

8. Memorize the causes of acid reflux (above) and make the necessary changes.

Finally, I would recommend taking a look at my website where I explain what changed my life and cured my acid reflux. This cure might work for you and I would love to help with other remedies!

http://www.refluxremedy.com/apple

Acid Reflux/Heartburn - Simple Steps to Relief

by: Andrew Kelly

You’ve seen the advertisements: Acid reflux is a horrible disease that can cause damage to the oesophagus and lead to cancer. Are these claims realistic, or simply exaggerated to sell over the counter medications? The fact is that doctors don’t even agree on the causes, treatments, and long-term risks related to heartburn, so you can believe what you want about the ads.

Heartburn is the uncomfortable feeling resulting from acid reflux, or GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease (try saying that out loud a few times). It can feel like a burning sensation (hence, the name), but can also feel like pressure in the chest, which is why it is sometimes confused with feelings associated with heart attacks.

Acid reflux occurs when the muscle between the stomach and the oesophagus gets weak or relaxes at the wrong time. The result is that the stomach contents, including the acid, move up into the oesophagus. Because the oesophagus doesn’t have the protective lining that the stomach does, the acid literally burns the oesophagus.

What Works?

Several non-prescription drugs may be effective for mild to moderate acid reflux, such as antacids, which neutralize stomach acids. These include well-known over the counter medications such as Tums and Rolaids. Another option is H2 receptor antagonists, which reduce the production of stomach acids. These include Axid AR, Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, and Zantac 75. Pepcid complete is the only of these that combines an antacid with an H2 receptor antagonist. Which is the best treatment? One study found that Pepcid complete performed better than either an antacid alone or an H2 receptor antagonist alone.

Prescription drugs prescribed to treat acid reflux are called proton-pump inhibitors. These include Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, and Protonix. While these are equally effective, one study did find that Nexium may heal esophageal sores faster.

Homeopathic Remedies

Combined with homeopathic remedies, heartburn may be treated effectively with less reliance on over the counter or prescription medications. Together, these solutions may provide the answers where just one solution fails to deliver on the promise.

Natural options that may help reduce GERD include deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which may bring fast relief and help heal damaged lining. Aloe Vera juice may also act quickly to bring relief. For those with chronic problems, Gamma-oryzanol (rice bran oil) may be useful, as could choline, pantothenic acid, and thiamin. These natural solutions may provide more effective short-term relief as well as provide long-term dietary benefits.

Why Try a Homeopathic Remedy?

The benefits of natural solutions is that they are often less costly and reduce the chances of becoming reliant on a particular solution. Natural solutions include treating the cause as much as the affect, and experimenting with diet and alternative treatments may help lessen the cause of the problem. Additionally, all of the homeopathic remedies mentioned above can be used along with over the counter or prescription medications.

Does Acid Reflux Cause Cancer?

Studies on acid reflux and cancer vary. One study showed that chronic acid reflux increased the chances of oesophageal cancer by as much as eight times. Another study determined that the risk of cancer is not nearly as much as was once thought. Chronic acid reflux can lead to Barrett’s oesophagus, or BE, which has been thought to lead to an increase in cancer. A study conducted by a group of medical doctors found that the risk of cancer from BE is not as much as previously thought, stating that BE will not cause cancer for most people.

What is not questioned is whether or not acid reflux is uncomfortable. Chronic GERD is difficult to live with, and experimenting with both traditional medications and natural remedies may be the best solution. As research continues on the causes and affects of GERD, additional options are likely to come along.

Reduce Acid Reflux or Heartburn by Strengthening the LES Valve

by: Rudy Silva

Heartburn and acid reflux are typically treated with over the counter products or drugs that reduce stomach acid or block the excretion of stomach acid. It would appear that if our stomach acid needed to be diluted by antacids, our body would be smart enough not produce such a corrosive liquid in our stomach.

That fact is that we need a highly acidic condition in our stomach to properly digest protein. Using drugs to suppress this stomach acid is not the correct way to deal with acid reflux or heartburn. If you do go this route, you will be facing many disease as you get older.

There are many reasons you might have acid reflux. One reason is a weakness in the Lower Esophageal Sphincter valve, LES. LES is a valve between your stomach and your esophagus. When your LES valve is weak, it can allow acidified, partially digested food to flow back up into your esophagus. The acid in the food will burn the lining of your esophagus causing the so called “heartburn…”

Here are some natural steps that you can use to strengthen your Lower Esophageal Sphincter valve:

These foods can weaken the LES valve - coffee, peppermint, spearmint, sugar, chocolate, onions, and alcohol. Once you have strengthened your LES, you can return to eating these foods in moderate amounts.

Eliminate those foods that are known to create allergic reactions such as cow’s milk, wheat, white flour, diary products, and other foods.

Avoid overeating and having a large amount of food in your stomach. Excess food in your stomach can increase your stomach gas pressure and force your LES valve to open.

Avoid using certain drugs, although this might be impossible. If you take drugs perhaps you can start looking for and start using some natural remedies so that you can lessen the use of drugs. Here are some of the drugs at cause LES problems - NSAID’s, bronchodilators, channel blockers, beta-blockers, antianxiety drugs, and nitroglycerine. These drugs relax the muscles around the LES valve causing them to open during normal stomach gas pressures.

Watch how you do certain physical activities, such as waist bending, staining during bowel movements, coughing, and lifting heavy objects. This increases the pressure in the stomach, causing the LES valve to open.

After a meal do not lie down. This causes food to flow back towards the LES valve putting pressure on it. So it is a good reason to eat your last meal around three hours before bedtime.

There you have it, some natural remedies and activities that strengthen or weaken your LES valve. Just applying some or all these will result in reducing the frequency of your acid reflux and heartburn.