Acid reflux and Yoga

(September 3, 2010)

Yoga for acid reflux

Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest after a meal is a classic symptom of acid reflux, a condition in which the acidic secretions of the stomach ’reflux’ into the esophagus and agitate its delicate lining.
Various prescription-pills and over the counter drugs claim to soothe the condition temporarily. If you suffer severe distress due to acid reflux, consult your doctor immediately. Along with medicines, ask if you can counter the symptoms of acid reflux through physical activity like Yoga, Tai Chi or Pilates. They are all moderate intensity workouts that can provide relief from heartburn.
Acid Reflux and Yoga
Wondering how acid reflux and Yoga are connected? Here is a simple reason to try it. The esophagus located at the back of the throat is a muscular tube transporting your food from your mouth to your stomach. It is supposed to be a one-way only tube. However, if the lower esophageal sphincter or valve is weak it does not close properly causing an acid reflux.
People suffering from excessive gas experience acid reflux and Yoga poses such as the Pavana Muktasana (Wind release technique) aids better digestion by minimizing acidic secretions. Stress is another common cause of acid reflux and Yoga can help to relax the body and mind. Strengthening your jugular area can help prevent the upward flow of stomach secretions. A well functioning esophagus can prevent acid reflux and Yoga poses like Sukhasana (Relaxed Pose) and Adho Mukha Shavanasana (Dog Pose) can help strengthen the chest and throat region.
Nearly all the relaxing poses will counter acid reflux, and meditation will calm the internal organs to help them function optimally. Since people experience the symptoms of acid reflux while lying down, try to relax by meditating in an upright position forcing the secretion to flow downwards.
Acid Reflux and Pilates
Strengthening your abdominal muscles and diaphragm can help prevent acid reflux and Pilates can be the perfect workout routine to tone various muscles. These exercises focus on centering your body, working various muscle groups, infusing energy into your body and improving flexibility.
Acid Reflux and Tai Chi
Exercising your body regularly can eliminate causes of acid reflux and Tai Chi with its gentle movements, emphasis on breathing and improving strength and flexibility of your core and other muscle groups. Practiced outdoors, Tai Chi can help to oxygenate your body and improve your digestion.
There is a strong connection between acid reflux and diet habits of people suffering from heartburn. Consult a doctor or dietician and follow a list of foods you can eat or need to avoid. Nearly all food categories are safe with a few limitations. Avoid oily, fried, or spicy food. Some citrus fruits, fruit juices, and caffeinated beverages can cause esophageal irritation. Smoking weakens your lower esophagus and can cause belching and acid reflux. Wait at least half an hour after meals to lie down. This should start your digestion process and you will not regurgitate in an uncomfortable position. Try probiotics infused yogurts or health supplements to neutralize the acidic secretions in your stomach. With a simple change in your lifestyle, you can help reduce the effects of acid reflux.

Submitted by A on September 3, 2010 at 05:31

Acid reflux is caused by acid from your stomach entering your esophagus and burning the lining of the esophagus. It is generally cured simply with antacids. Yoga however, may be able to provide you with some relief, not always by the asanas you do, but by the asanas you don’t do. Try your best to stay away from inverted poses, as they will cause more acid to leave the stomach and cause more irritation. Some poses that may help in the relief are the cat and cow pose which will relax your mid-section and push acid back into your stomach. You may also gain some relief from spinal twists which will massage and relax the esophagus, however make sure you have a strong back before attempting any spinal twists.

It is likely you will also gain considerable relief form corpse pose and even shivasana, where you are relaxing your muscles and settling the acid in your stomach. Some people who practice yoga daily gain relief because yoga reduces stress in their body, which may be a cause of acid reflux. You may also benefit from a yogic diet as well which is low in acidic foods.

Submitted by R W on November 14, 2007 at 02:43