Although there are many types of antacids and other medications you can take to help relieve acid reflux symptoms, did you also know that correct posture can have a positive impact on the way you digest food, thereby preventing acid reflux from occurring? ?
That’s right, the postures you adopt while eating and right after eating are important, as they can make digesting food easy or difficult for your body. For example, sitting in a hunched forward position while eating and lying down immediately after a meal puts extra pressure on the stomach and can promote indigestion or heartburn.
Also, wearing anything tight around the waist (belts, tight pants, corset, etc.) while eating puts pressure on the stomach. Tight clothing prevents the belly from expanding and moving freely, which is a natural process during feeding and digestion.
When you put excessive pressure on your stomach, it takes longer for your stomach to digest food. The longer your stomach takes to digest food, the greater your chances of developing indigestion and/or acid reflux. Therefore, improving posture during and after meals can help or prevent heartburn symptoms.
Proper posture that promotes good digestion.
Sit down for meals: When you eat, you should be seated at a table. You should not eat while standing, walking, lying down or while driving.
Sit down – do not slouch or hunch over the table to eat. Sit close to the table and bring your utensil to your mouth, instead of your mouth to your utensil. To ensure correct posture while sitting, follow these tips:
o Sit in a chair that supports your back (i.e. high back, firm cushions, etc.)
o Keep your knees hip-width apart and sit as far back in the chair as possible. To keep your knees level, your feet should be flat on the ground.
Note: If your lower back bothers you when sitting, place a round cushion or towel between the chair and your lower back for support.
Take your time and eat: don’t rush to eat. Eating too quickly also causes digestion problems. You must allow your stomach to register the food eaten.
Don’t lie down: Although you should allow your body to rest after you’ve eaten, make sure you’re sitting or standing. Do not lie down as this slows digestion.
How can I improve my posture?
1. Exercise – Doing regular back and abdominal exercises (ie yoga, pilates, etc.) will strengthen your muscles and help maintain good posture without causing you discomfort.
2. Firm mattress and sleeping position: Sleep on a mattress that is firm and provides good support for your back. Either sleep on your back and keep your legs straight or put a pillow under your knees, or if you sleep on your side, keep your legs slightly bent and make sure your top leg is straighter than your bottom leg. Don’t sleep on your stomach.
3. Constant Awareness – Always be aware of how you are sitting or standing. That way, you can correct your posture if your body falls into its familiar bad habits.
Good posture improves your health and overall appearance. When you stop slouching, you will find that this will not only help with digestion, but will also help relieve and prevent other problems that can occur related to your neck, shoulders, and back. Straightening and strengthening your back muscles does wonders for your well-being. Give it a try!