Acidity or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a serious condition and can be a hurdle in your everyday life if you do not find the root cause and fix it. Do you ever feel a burning sensation in your chest or get abrupt acid burps or get a headache after a meal? All these symptoms direct to acidity. But did you know that acidity is not only caused by your dietary habits but can also be the result of your sleep patterns?
Yes! Your sleep patterns can also be the reason you often suffer from feelings of discomfort caused due to acidity. There are multiple ways in which sleep and acidity are interconnected. Let us know how.
Five ways Sleep Pattern can worsen Acidity
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Poor quality of sleep
The body’s capacity to heal and sustain its functions, including digestion, can be impacted by poor sleep quality. The lower esophageal sphincter might become weaker due to inadequate or interrupted sleep, which can facilitate acid reflux from the stomach.
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Meal timings
Large meals or snacks right before bed can make acid reflux more likely to occur at night. It’s usually advised to wait two to three hours after eating before turning in for the night. To have a healthy dinner, choose meals that have less acidic content. Go for light and fibre rich meals.
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Your sleep position
Acid reflux or acidity is a condition that is caused by the stomach acid moving back up into the esophagus when one is lying down. This can be avoided by sleeping with the head raised. Moreover, avoid lying down immediately after a meal. This can cause indigestion followed by acidity.
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Circadian rhythms
The body’s internal clock also called as circadian rhythm, regulates various physiological processes, including digestion. Disruptions in sleep patterns can affect the normal production of digestive juices and the timing of their release.
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Sleep deprivation
Stress levels increase due to sleep deprivation, which could then raise stomach acid production and the chance of developing acid reflux. Several illnesses, including obstructive sleep apnea, can make acid reflux worse. Recurrent episodes of airway blockage during sleep may cause the abdomen’s pressure to fluctuate, encouraging reflux.
Tips for Controlling acidity and improving sleep
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Sleep-position: For chronic acidity, try sleeping in a reclining position or on your left side. This prevents stomach acid from rising into the esophagus during the night.
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Chew thoroughly: Chew your meals well to aid digestion and reduce acid reflux.
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Eat early: Have dinner closer to sunset, allowing ample time for digestion before bed. Ensure your dinner is done at least two hours prior to your bedtime.
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Manage Stress Levels: One must try relax during the day and avoid stress. Doing some physical exercise or meditation is advisable.
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Consulting a Specialist: In case the acid reflux seems to be a frequent incidence, then it is advisable to consult a specialist and follow a specific treatment plan.
In a nutshell, acidity may not be a terminal condition but it does affect our well being. However, the good news is with certain changes in our daily schedule one can control acidity.
