If you have acid reflux or hiatal hernia you want to avoid this drink. 

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What is it? Alcohol.
Why is it a problem?

1. Alcohol relaxes the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) that prevents reflux from occurring up into your esophagus from your stomach. The sphincter to work needs to be toned; when it relaxes it allows the movement of stomach contents to back up into your esophagus - reflux. It also worsens or can contribute to a hiatal hernia.

2. Alcohol increases stomach acid production. If your stomach acid is creating irritation of your esophagus or stomach, increasing it can cause symptoms of burning and irritation, worsening your condition.

3. Delayed gastric (stomach) emptying. Alcohol causes your stomach to stay full longer which increases pressure within your stomach, increasing the likelihood of both reflux and hiatal hernia, especially after larger meals. Slowed gastric emptying also increases the risk for infections and the development of SIBO.

4. Irritates lining of your esophagus. Alcohol burns when you swallow it normally. Add that to an esophagus that is already inflamed and you'll worsen the irritation to the lining, increasing your risk of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer over time.

5. Aggravates nocturnal reflux - people tend to drink at night and eat their larger meal then as well. When you lie down to go to sleep you'll have an increased risk of reflux, interrupting your sleep.

6. Impairs healing - alcohol causes a chronic cycle of inflammation, a weakening of your immune system, decreased nutrient absorption and antioxidant interruption, all resulting in impaired healing.

Specific alcohols and their issues:
Red wine is acidic and high in histamines
Beer is carbonated, increasing bloat and pressure
Mixers are carbonated and sugary. [Watch my video on the problems with sugar and reflux.]
Cocktails with citrus - the acid of the citrus is an aggravant.

Tips:
Drink rarely
Avoid alcohol at least 3 hours before bed
Avoid carbonation and citrus
Stay upright after eating for a few hours
Avoid high fat with alcohol

If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.

#alcohol, #acidreflux #hiatalhernia