Part 5
Stress is a big cause of acid reflux, so focus on managing this through regular exercise (keep it light to moderate, as high intensity can worsen reflux), getting 7-9 hours sleep,practicing mindfulness and tuning your nervous system into rest and digest mode with diaphragmatic breathing before and after meals.* Actually, diaphragmatic breathing has double benefits for acid reflux. It has been shown to strengthen the LOS valve. It is a muscle after all, and just like going the gym it gets stronger the more you train it. Do diaphragmatic breathing three times a day, for at least 10 minutes each time. There is also a Swedish-designed device called IQoro which you place in your mouth and pull to strengthen muscles in the oesophagus. It is actually approved by the NHS for acid reflux and is available on prescription, but most doctors don’t know about this, so speak to yours if you struggle with acid reflux.
For further information on diaphragmatic breathing see publication/page 13*
Information source – “How to Gut Health” publication by Jordan Haworth, Gut Health Scientist. – https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Gut-Health-Science-backed-metabolism/dp/1785046241
