Key points to remember
The problem is mechanical: acid reflux is often caused by a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve between your esophagus and stomach, and not just by excess acid.
Use gravity to your advantage: simple changes like sleeping on your left side, raising the head of your bed, and not lying down for 2 to 3 hours after eating can significantly reduce symptoms.
Avoid overfilling your stomach: apply the “80% fill” rule and avoid drinking large amounts of liquid during meals to prevent pressure from forcing the valve open.
Identify aggravating chemical factors: certain foods and substances such as mint, chocolate, alcohol, and tobacco can chemically relax the valve, thus worsening reflux. Temporarily eliminating them may promote the healing of your valve.
1. It’s not just a simple pouch: understanding your stomach’s pressure system
To solve this problem, it’s essential to understand a fundamental concept: the stomach isn’t simply a pouch, but a reservoir with variable pressure. Imagine a balloon filled with liquid and gas. If you compress it, its contents will rise. What prevents this from happening between the stomach and the esophagus? A small, circular muscle located at the entrance, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). You can compare it to the knot in the balloon or a valve. The problem is that this sphincter can rupture for various reasons. It can open due to distension or pressure changes. Other times, it’s due to improper muscle relaxation. Finally, in some cases, a hiatal hernia weakens it structurally, allowing the contents to flow back up.
