Reflux

rjmudlax13

I've suffered from acid reflux (GERD) since high school. The only thing that really helps consistently is Omeprazole. Although, there are triggers.

Big triggers: Stress, alcohol (sigh), coffee (sigh), white breads, heavily processed food (I know "processed" is a loaded and controversial term, but Doritos triggers it more than plain tortilla chips), milk (this one is weird, because initially it soothes the pain), sugary drinks, and fried/greasy food.

Mild triggers: Tomato sauce, spicy food, eggs, whole wheat breads and most heavy sauces.

What helps the most is eating mostly fruits and vegetables. Meat/fish doesn't bother me unless I overeat. Rice is usually OK. I find that brown rice is a little better. Exercise helps a lot probably because it reduces stress and "keeps things moving." I try to sleep on my left side and with a slightly elevated bed. Water is important as well.