Acid reflux causes the stomach acid that is used for digestion to flow into the esophagus, the tube that allows food and beverages into your stomach. This reverse action can cause discomfort such as gas, a bitter taste in the mouth, and heartburn. Since it is not a serious medical condition, it can be cured with some basic dietary and lifestyle changes. However, if not treated, it can cause significant damage to the esophagus.

Avoiding trigger foods and following a proper diet can relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. Many foods relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to escape into the esophagus and cause heartburn. On the other hand, some foods and beverages can irritate the sphincter and worsen the symptoms. It is advised to avoid foods that aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux, such as:

1. Avoid fatty foods
Foods like cheese, nuts, and fried foods can cause acid reflux. They might relax the lower esophageal sphincter, the barrier between the esophagus and stomach, which causes the acid to escape from the stomach. Also, they could stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. This is one of the most critical lifestyle tips for acid reflux.

2. Milk
Often, people are lactose intolerant. As a result, any consumption of milk or dairy products can cause bloating, gas, and discomfort, which are the common symptoms of acid reflux. So, in case you do experience these symptoms, it is best to avoid milk and dairy products or reduce their consumption to the minimum.

3. Chocolate
Chocolate causes acid reflux more than other foods as it contains caffeine and other stimulants, like theobromine. It is also high in fat and cocoa. So, it is best to minimize the intake of chocolate.

4. Soda
Soda and other carbonated beverages cause major reflux, as the bubbles of carbon expand inside the stomach and increase the pressure, which contributes to reflux. Moreover, sodas with caffeine are a major cause of acid reflux.

5. Alcohol
Beer, wine, and hard liquor increase reflux. Many of these beverages are not acidic, but they relax the valve at the bottom of the esophagus. It is best to abstain from them or have only one glass of wine a day.

6. High-fat meats
Meats like pork, beef, and lamb take longer to digest in the stomach, as they are tough. This, in turn, increases the chance of acid reflux. Try to minimize their intake to once a week.

Acid reflux can be painful. Many people experience the symptoms of acid reflux daily, while others might experience them occasionally. To avoid any discomfort, it is best to adopt easy lifestyle tips for acid reflux.