Tips to Control Acid Reflux

Watch what you eat

• Don't eat fatty or spicy foods.

• Eat fewer acidic foods. These include foods with citrus and tomatoes. These can make your symptoms worse.

• Limit drinks that are fizzy or have alcohol or caffeine. These all increase acid reflux.

• Limit foods and drinks with chocolate, peppermint, or spearmint. These can make acid reflux worse in some people.

Watch when you eat

• Don't lie down for 3 hours after eating.

• Don't snack before going to bed.

Tilt your upper body

Raise your upper body by 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) when you’re lying down. This helps limit reflux. Put blocks under the head of your bed frame or a wedge under your mattress to raise it.

Other changes

• Lose weight, if you need to.

• Don’t exercise near bedtime.

• Don't wear tight-fitting clothes.

• Limit your use of aspirin and ibuprofen.

• Stop smoking, if you smoke.