Stress may indirectly trigger acid reflux attacks by slowing down digestion, putting pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and causing overindulgence in comfort food, smoking, or alcohol. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and exercise can help reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms.
Most people believe there is a link between acid reflux and stress. Many acid reflux sufferers report more acute symptoms during times of stress. Studies have not shown a direct relationship between acid reflux and stress, but stress could be indirectly responsible for acid reflux attacks.
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition in which stomach acid rises into the lower part of the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is responsible for keeping acid from flowing into the esophagus, but in the event of acid reflux, the LES relaxes. Unlike the stomach lining, the esophagus is unable to resist stomach acid, causing irritation and a burning sensation.
Stress has not been found to cause the SLE to relax and trigger a bout of acid reflux. Despite this, people frequently report increased acid reflux episodes during times of stress, and there appears to be a relationship between acid reflux and stress. This has led many researchers to conclude that acid reflux and stress are linked by some of the other documented effects of stress.
For example, during times of stress, the body prioritizes essential fight-or-flight functions and puts other processes on hold until the stress has passed. Your muscles, heart, and lungs get extra food and oxygen so they can work harder. This fuel is directed away from less essential functions, including digestion. When the digestive process is slowed down, food stays in the stomach longer and more pressure is put on the LES. Hyperacidity can also result from slower digestion, and this condition can contribute to acid reflux.
Behavior is another link between acid reflux and stress. In times of stress, people are more likely to overeat or seek out comfort food. Stressed people are more likely to smoke more or consume more alcohol. Overindulgence places extra stress on the SLE, making acid reflux more likely.
While acid reflux and stress don’t appear to be directly linked, reducing stress is often an effective way to reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux attacks. Researchers agree that managing stress offers a number of benefits, including improved digestion. Relaxation techniques such as massage, meditation or simple moments of stillness can help reduce stress levels. Exercise is a particularly helpful method of managing stress, because it has the added benefit of reducing weight, which will also help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
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