Friday, November 28, 2008

Controlling Acid Reflux - The Acid Alkaline Balanced Diet

According to medical experts, acid reflux (heartburn) or GERD can be easily treated or removed from your system by considering an alkaline diet.

Despite the existence of how-to's and guides in getting rid of your acid reflux and GERD problems, medical science believes that achieving this goal is easily done through understanding the purpose of acid and alkaline in the human body.

The Facts About Acid/Alkaline Balance Theory

It is advisable to understand the properties of acid and alkaline before we delve into the balance theory. For starters, acid is a substance that releases hydrogen molecules directly into a solution. Alkaline is considered as a base that removes hydrogen from it.

Our body requires acids in order to initiate some of its functions. Too much of this in the system, however, will result in problems such as:

• Decline in muscle contractibility and flexibility

• Increase of hormones, like adrenalin

• Acid Reflux (heartburn)

By balancing out acid and alkaline (a proper pH value of both substances) the body will be able to function normally and reduce the possibility of acid reflux.

How Acid and Alkaline Work In the Body

As an example, let's review the actual process of the digestive system. When food is ingested and passed to the stomach, this part of the digestive system will release gastric juices or hydrochloric acids to help digestion.

On the other hand, the pancreas will also release alkaline-based substances to counteract the acid in the stomach. Eating highly acidic food will eventually increase the acid content in the stomach, making it almost impossible for the pancreas to catch up to the level of acidity.

It is advisable for an individual to be aware of the food they eat. The higher the acidic content of the food ingested, the more acid will be stored in the stomach. The acid level build-up will eventually override the capability of the lower esophageal sphincter and backflow to the esophagus -- causing heartburn.

Acid Reflux And Balance Theory

By taking in foods that are rich in alkaline, especially in the case of acid reflux and GERD patients, the acid level in the stomach is reduced to a more tolerable level -- causing less stress to the LES. Foods high in alkaline are:

• Vegetables (barley, wheat, broccoli, cucumber, kale, etc.)

• Nuts and oils

Also, balancing the acid and alkaline in the human body will eventually help in the rejuvenation of an inflamed or infected esophagus -- which will eventually lead to acid reflux when left untreated.

Other Benefits of Eating Alkaline-rich Foods

Aside from being an alternative healing method for acid reflux and GERD, there are other benefits to be had in eating alkaline-rich foods such as:

• Increase the energy level. Too much acid in the system tends to lower the energy levels in the body -- restricting basic human movement and internal organ functionality.

• Alkaline is also known to be the perfect environment to help the body fight off infections and diseases. In most cases, bacteria, germs, molds, and fungi cannot survive in an alkaline environment, unlike an acidic body. Having high alkaline levels ensures an infection free body.

Balance Diet

It is advisable to incorporate a well-balanced diet to conform to the acid/alkaline balance theory. The first step is to reduce the intake of highly acidic foods that will increase the acid levels in your stomach. Also, individuals should integrate alkaline rich foods into their diet.

Large amounts of food in the body are known to increase the acidity levels in our digestive system. Again, it is advisable to avoid eating large meals that will overload the stomach, leading to more production of acids in the digestive system.

For more information about acid reflux disease and other digestive disorders, please visit Health Care Online at: http://www.healthsearchonline.com/category/digestive-disorders/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Quinto_Romero

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