The causes of reflux are not the easiest of things to pin down. If you are a reflux sufferer, then you need to know what reflux really is. This information will let you know what you need to be doing to limit this condition

acid reflux is a common disorder in today’s world. The fact is that this condition has been steadily increasing over the last twenty years, and showing no signs of slowing down. Diet is often a major culprit with this condition but let’s take a look first at exactly what reflux is and what are the causes of reflux.

When you eat, the food will travel through the oesophagus and then enters the stomach. The stomach will then produce acid to help the breakdown of the food. It seems to sound pretty straightforward doesn't it? There is a small valve which is connected between the oesophagus and your stomach. When the food has left the oesophagus, this valve closes to prevent stomach acid entering your oesophagus.

The valve is named the LES, Lower Esophageal Sphincter. From now on we will just call this the LES valve. The first reason is that it is easier for you to read, and the second reason is that I type less.

Now the LES can become weakened or damaged, this can occur for a number of reasons. Once this happens, the LES cannot close properly. This allows the acid in your stomach to seep into the oesophagus. The pain will come from this acid and will give you that burning feeling. This is known as reflux, acid reflux, or heartburn.

What most people will do initially is to turn to antacids to relieve the causes of reflux. Usually the action is try prescription drugs, if these don't work you may have to consider surgery. The only problem with stronger prescription drugs is that they often carry side effects. Any drug that you use is going to have some sort of side effect. These effects may not be noticeable straight away, but sooner or later they will be.

Some people claim that there is a link between diet and acid reflux problems. It is commonly known that our diets have become very unhealthy over the years, so this may play a major part. Much of the food that we consume contains various acids. Our food is filled with chemicals, additives, sweeteners, and who knows what else. By eating more fresh vegetables will positively affect the acidity in the body.

How much food that we eat can also be connected to the causes of reflux. The amount of stomach acid that is produced is linked to the amount of food that we have eaten. More acid will be produced if you have eaten a large meal. If your LES is not functioning properly, it will mean more acid going up your oesophagus.

This results in further pain, along with the real risk of the acid causing damage to your oesophagus. However this situation can be changed dramatically by making changes to your eating habits. There can be other solutions apart from drugs . Do some research and apply certain methods, and you should be able to eliminate your causes of reflux, and stop heartburn fast