Here's a try:
Acid reflux can be caused by hiatal hernia (which has been estimated
to occur in half the population!). What it means in plain English is that
the tube to the stomach, the esophagus, is too short and part of the stomach
slips upward through the diaphragm (a muscular tissue separating the lungs
and heart from the rest of the organs)--OR--the body position or tightness
of clothing is pressuring the stomach upwards against the diaphragm causing
the upper stomach to go through the diaphragm. This constriction often
causes stomach acid to back up the esophagus and causes burning burps and
indigestion.
One of the best things to do to cure acid reflux is to "sit tall" at the
table and never eat while slumping or reclining. Any time acid reflux
occurs, for the health and safety of your esophagus (which was never meant
to support acid from the stomach), have a small sip of water and rinse the
acid back into the stomach.
Eat smaller portions, and only as often as you need to eat. Acid reflux
will occur if you over-stuff the stomach. That goes for drinking liquids,
too. Having too much food or too much liquids with a meal can cause acid
reflux.
Taking anti-acids can reduce the acidity of the stomach temporarily, but
having them as a habit to combat the acid reflux over a long period of time
can cause the stomach to not digest properly. This can lead to a habit of
dependence on anti-acids.
I have no opinion to venture on the current medicines being advertised
on television. I suspect it is reprehensible! The side effects and possible
bad effects that they quickly run through in these ads should scare anyone
from "asking your doctor!"
The best "home remedy" for an "acid stomach" is 1/2 teaspoon of baking
soda in a glass (8 ounces) of water. But drinking an 8 oz. glass of water on
a full stomach is a very poor idea. Maybe a few sips at a time, over a half
hour?
A caramel candy (1) may help. A very small pinch of ginger, the pumpkin
pie spice, followed by a sip of water, may help.
