There are several possible causes for acid reflux. Please consult with a physician if your condition persists. In the meantime we can give you some general advice which we hope will help relieve your discomfort.

We recommend the Digestible You segment on our Yoga Quick Fixes DVD. It will help adjust the acid/alkaline level of your stomach

Acid reflux is sometimes caused by a hiatal hernia, which is when a space develops between the overlapping muscles of the upper digestive tract. To help correct this, we recommend the 3rd exercise of the 5 Tibetans on our Kundalini Yoga for Beginners & Beyond DVD (Downward Facing Dog to Upward Facing Dog).

We suggest moving towards a more alkaline diet by avoiding acid causing foods and substances (coffee and other caffeinated beverages, meat, excessive sugar, fried foods, and overly spicy foods).

We also recommend avoiding chocolate, fatty foods, tomatoes and tomato based products, alcohol and tobacco, citrus juice and fruits, and large meals. You should also not lie down or exercise (including yoga) for 2-3 hour after eating.

Sitali Pranayam (see article in this archive) has been shown to be helpful for acid reflux.

In addition, We also recommend avoiding tight waistbands or anything that will put pressure your stomach.

It may not seem so now, but sometimes conditions like this prove to be a blessing in disguise because they spur us onward towards a healthier lifestyle than we otherwise might have embraced.

Disclaimer: The advice we give is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Please consult your physician before beginning any exercise program or nutritional protocol.