U.S. Agency For Healthcare Research Report - Acid Reflux Myths Debunked

Oct. 18, 2011 - PRLog -- According to a recent study, Acid Reflux Disorder, also known as gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD, may affect around 4% of Americans, causing not only increased medical expenses but also more serious long-term effects which include esophageal cancer. This latest report is published on September 23, 2011 by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research Quality (AHRQ).

Have you noticed that, sometime after eating a large meal, you feel a burning sensation in your chest as a consequence of acidity? Normally, to cure this problem, we would use antacid drugs. Shortly after taking antacids, the symptoms generally go away. However, if these conditions occur too frequently, then you may have something to worry about. In the above report, researchers have discovered that there are a number of misconceptions about heartburn, which should definitely be avoided for the proper management of the condition. Some of the main misconception are:

Myth#1: Lots of people suggest milk for relaxing the pain of heartburn, but the facts is actually just the opposite. It's true that consuming a glass of milk can temporarily relieve a troubled stomach by neutralizing the acids. But, the calcium present in milk later on activates the production of more acids, which ultimately exacerbates the symptoms.

Myth#2: Cut out caffeine products such as coffee or tea. The only reason you should eliminate caffeinated drinks is if they are causing a problem in the first place. If caffeine isn't causing you a problem, it's not one of the aggravators. Therefore, there isn't any need for all sufferers to avoid drinking it.

Myth#3: Avoiding spicy food is extremely important. Again, only if particular spicy foods accelerate acid-reflux symptoms in your stomach. Doctors believe that rather than avoiding your favorite foods, consider a balance in your daily diet habits. Just avoid or cut down on only those that affect your symptoms. A good way to prevent this is to use easily digestible food.

Myth#4: Acid reflux is a result of excessive stomach acids. In actuality, usually the opposite is the case. Most experts feel that the amount of stomach acid in people affected by acid reflux is generally normal. It's actually the weakening of the esophageal sphincter that causes acid reflux symptoms.

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