Causes of Acid Reflux

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We have all felt that nasty burning sensation in the chest, particularly after a big meal. This is acid reflux, a condition whereby stomach acid flows up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. While most of us just dismiss it as just a routine thing, acid reflux may cause more dangerous health issues if not treated. Determining the underlying causes of acid reflux and addressing them plays a crucial role in offering effective cure. Ayurveda provides a holistic approach with its root-cause treatment methods.

Ayurvedic Causes of Acid Reflux

In Ayurveda, acid reflux is considered a disruption of the digestive fire or Agni that breaks down food and absorbs nutrients. Let's see how doshas imbalances can cause acid reflux:

Pitta dosha: Pitta is the ruler of digestion and metabolism. In case of imbalance of Pitta, i.e., excess of heat or acidity in the body, acid moves upwards into the esophagus, and there is the subsequent discomfort. It is most commonly triggered by stress, hot food, and consumption of excessive amounts of acidic or fried food.

Vata dosha: Vata regulates movement and circulation of energy inside the body. An imbalance in Vata might lead to poor digestion, inefficient assimilation of food, and abnormal movement of digestive juices leading to acid reflux. Vata imbalance is mostly brought about by unhealthy eating times, stress, or dryness.

Kapha dosha: Kapha governs the body structure and lubrication. More Kapha leads to poor digestion of food, causing clogging and poisoning of the toxins in the stomach and eventually acid reflux. Kapha typically gets aggravated when you overheat or consume too many dairy items.

Causes of Acid Reflux in Modern Times

Acid reflux in today's fast-paced times is mostly linked with food and lifestyle habits. The most common causes that you should know are:

• Food habits: Large meals, particularly spicy, greasy, or acidic foods (e.g., tomatoes, citrus fruits, coffee) can trigger acid reflux. Too much food or eating closer to your bedtime can also cause stomach acid to move up into the esophagus.
• Obesity: That unhealthy extra weight in your body compresses the stomach and may push acid backward into the esophagus. This can cause repeated acid reflux attacks.
• Hiatal hernia: When the stomach's upper part bulges up through the diaphragm, it allows acid to reflux back into the esophagus and cause acid reflux.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain drugs for high blood pressure, open up the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and permit the passage of stomach acid into the esophagus.
• Stress: Chronic stress can alter digestion and lead to increased production of stomach acid that can cause acid reflux.

Learning the underlying causes of your digestive problems is the first step towards enhancing your digestive well-being. With Ayurveda, you can be sure that your body will heal naturally, free from the risk of side effects that are often linked with conventional medications. Start your path to better health by consulting an Ayurvedic expert today.