Exertion-Associated Gastro-oesophageal
Reflux (EAGER) is a term used to describe co -
occurrence of acid reflux and exertion,
i.e. heartburn episodes triggered by physical
activity. People try to be healthier by exercising
more, but this triggers EAGER which not only
causes discomfort but also takes them off the road
to better overall health. One of the defence
mechanisms that prevent the reflux of gastric acid
up to the oesophagus is the gravity. When the
body’s position is altered, the protective effect
of the gravity may be reduced. Lying down, bending
over, jogging, and jumping tend to decrease the
effect of gravity, increasing the potential for
acid reflux and causing the contents of the
stomach, including the acidic digestive juices, to
move around vigorously inside the stomach walls.
Acid reflux occurs more frequently during exercise
than at rest. Increased
intensity of exercise has been seen to result in
increased reflux in both trained athletes and
untrained people. Running produced more reflux
than less jarring activities, such as bicycling,
while weight training produced few reflux
symptoms.
Obesity actually worsens the symptoms
of acid reflux. When you overeat, the stomach has
to secrete more acid causing excess acid build-up
in the stomach. Therefore, exercise is needed to
maintain a healthy weight. Some aerobic as well as
anaerobic exercises like step exercises,
bicycling, stair climbing and stretching actually
help treat acid reflux. Yoga is extremely useful
for treating acid reflux, as it utilizes mainly
the body's own strength with very little external
force or exertion. Some postures incorporate
breathing exercises that help reduce stress, while
other postures improve overall physical health.
Meditation is known to alleviate painful and
distressing symptoms of heartburn.
There are specific steps acid reflux
sufferers can take while exercising. Wait at least
an hour after eating before you begin to exercise,
avoid fatty or greasy foods, avoid caffeine, take
an over-the-counter antacid before exercising (in
chronic cases), and try a less jarring exercise or
supplement jostling types of exercise with
swimming or stationary bike workouts.
Acid reflux can usually be treated and
prevented through lifestyle modifications and
without harmful medications using the holistic
medicine approach. This is safer, cheaper and more
effective than using drugs. The main aim is to
restore the balance between the physical, mental,
emotional, and spiritual aspects of the body to
promote overall health. These dimensions and are
encompassed in the HOLISTIC TREATMENT which
tackles all the causal factors without
compromising on body’s natural strength and
vitality. It is the best option around as it does
not cause side-effects and the results are
complete and long-lasting. Acid reflux is a
multi-factorial disease and holistic remedies are
oriented to correct every imbalance in the body in
a natural way.
