If your acid reflux seems to kick into high gear in the summer, you are not alone. During summer, people tend to eat more, eat later in the day and consume foods and drinks that are highly acidic.
How do you like to spend a lazy summer day? If you are like a lot of people, you will lie down at some point in the day. Whether sunbathing, watching the clouds or taking an afternoon nap, these activities are best done from a horizontal position. Considering they also occur in the middle of the day means that there is food in the stomach, which can trigger acid reflux.
Summertime is also the time where a lot of the more acidic foods we eat are in season. The prices go down and our consumption goes up. Many people will actually double their normal consumption of acidic foods without even realizing it.
A lot of people love to grill in the summertime. Grilling is generally one of the healthier ways to cook food, but it all depends on what foods are grilled, what sauces are used, etc. A lot of people grill foods that are naturally fatty and other high acidic foods like tomatoes, onions, pineapple and citrus. Don?t make the mistake of thinking that because it was grilled that it won?t bother you just the same.
First, drink more water. Throw a few ice cubes in and voila! ? a delicious and refreshing cold drink. Alternate your alcoholic or sugary drinks with a glass of water in between. It will also help keep you hydrated if you are sitting in the sun.
Second, incorporate lower acid foods into your daily diet. Yogurt is acidic, but will help to control the acid in your stomach and intestines. Salads are also good, as long as you limit the tomatoes and dressing. Try dipping your bites into a small serving of dressing instead of pouring it over the salad.
Do not despair, summer lovers! For every unhealthy (highly acidic) option, there is a healthy (low acid) solution. Barring some (not many) flavored waters, drinking plain water is the best way to go. Un-sweet tea comes in as a close second.
Incorporating more water in your diet helps keep things moving. Water will give you that feeling of fullness, thus reducing the temptation to snack. It also helps in digestion, so your food is not left stewing in your stomach.
Summertime is the best time of year for many people. Don?t let acid reflux ruin one second of it! Smart food choices, drinking water and watching your consumption will work together to keep acid reflux symptoms in check.
