When we look at acid reflux disease causes, we have to understand various mechanisms that are in action when we eat and digest our food. In this article I want to outline what these are so that we can understand what is going on and also learn what to do and what not to do.

When we eat, there is a gateway or door at the end of our gullet which is normally a one way valve. This opens to let the food through to the stomach so that the digestive process can start. But there are occasions when this valve is pushed open and stomach acid starts to flow back up and cause us heartburn and considerable discomfort. This valve is known as the LES (oesophagal sphincter).

But other factors and events can cause the LES to relax and start pushing up the troublesome acidic reflux. If you exercise hard and long, or if you bend over, smoke a lot or if you wear tight belts around the waist; these can all cause the valve to relax and open.

Other conditions such as pregnancy and obesity can also be contributory factors. Take pregnancy where after three months, the stomach enlarges and pushes on the LES valve and causes a reflux. Then more hormones are released which also cause the muscles to relax in preparation for the great event. One of the muscles usually relaxed is the LES. Similarly, obesity can also enlarge the stomach so that it is putting pressure on the valve as well. Losing weight must be a priority in this case.

Many people are curious to know why the acidic juices used in indigestion, the main one is hydrochloric acid, do not irritate the stomach as much as they do in the oesophagus. The reason is that the oesophagus has not developed a protective coating like the stomach, simply because it is not normally host to this kind of acid. That is one of the reasons why it causes so much discomfort and pain there.

These then are the main acid reflux disease causes although medication for other conditions often produce more stomach acid so it can be a vicious circle. That is why holistic approaches are generally much safer and more effective. They will also save you literally thousands of dollars because you will never have to have invasive tests or be prescribed rather expensive medication. The side effects of these are considerable by the way so it is a good idea to have a careful look at the holistic treatment first.

Why not seek alternatives to medications instead of worrying too much about acid reflux disease causes.