Acid reflux refers to the condition that brings about a burning sensation (also called heartburn) in the throat and upper chest areas. A person who is suffering from acid reflux is prone to feeling an acidic or bitter aftertaste in the back of his or her mouth due to the stomach acid backup. And, one of the food products that worsen this situation come from dairy. The fat content of dairy products is mostly the reason behind it. This is why in the case of acid reflux, patients are advised to cut down on their dairy intake and reduce their fat consumption.
Causes Of Acid Reflux
One cause of the development of acid reflux is eating heavy meals. The stomach has to work harder and exert a lot more effort into producing the acid that is necessary to proper digestion of the food. As a result, too much acid is secreted and the symptoms of the condition increase in intensity. Indigestion – brought about by the consumption of dairy products and other foods – can also lead to acid reflux. Another cause is when the lower esophageal muscle relaxes. This muscle, if it’s working properly, opens up when the food enters the stomach and closes down so that there’d be no acid backup. But, a relaxed lower esophageal muscle is not a properly working muscle. There are foods that contribute to that malfunction in the esophageal muscle.
Dietary Considerations
Dairy products are not recommended for people who are suffering from heartburn because they contain saturated fat – something that can trigger the condition. The problem is that dairy products also contain essential protein that the body needs for muscles formation and energy. So, medical experts have come up with the plan to choose the dairy products that do not contain a lot of fat. The University of Maryland Medical Center, especially, has stressed how diary products can sometimes strengthen the lower esophageal muscles.
Dairy products like nonfat yogurt, milk and cheese (being low-fat or non-fat) may not even trigger acid reflux. Skinless chicken, fish and lean meat are also effective parts that a person who’s experiencing acid reflux should also include in his or her diet. Fruits must also be constantly consumed to ease the hunger pangs. But, citrus fruits should be avoided.
Night Symptoms
A lot of people have turned to drinking milk before they go to sleep so that heartburn may not be experienced. It works but only temporarily. Milk can encourage the stomach to secrete more acid, and acid reflux may then result. Experts say that to ease symptoms of acid reflux at night, a person should not drink or eat 2 to 3 hours before going to sleep. Lying down right after eating is also discouraged.
Possible Remedy Relief from acid reflux may be sought by drinking skim milk. As it has no fat, it can supply a temporary antacid effect to heartburn. But, one should only drink a small amount of it – since drinking a lot can trigger more acid secretions and a person should wait for at least half an hour for the medicine to work. Whole milk should never be an option.
