Hiatal Hernia is the protrusion of the stomach, through the esophageal opening in the diaphragm. If you have a hiatal hernia you will be experiencing the painful burning sensation of acid reflux or heartburn after most of your meals if not every meal.
Diaphragm is a sheet that separates your chest from stomach and other digestive organs. In case of hiatal hernia that boundary has been breached.
It can be your poor posture, weakness of nearby muscles or genetic defect of being born with a large opening of the diaphragm called hiatus. Lifting heavy objects, too much stress, obesity and smoking can also cause hiatal hernia.
(loadposition midad)Medicine and even surgery sometimes may be required to treat hiatal hernia, but home remedies, lifestyle and dietary changes can control and alleviate pain of hiatal hernia.
Dietary Remedies for Hiatal Hernia
Diet that reduces acid reflux and heartburn will also reduce the discomfort caused by a hiatal hernia. Dietary changes are absolutely necessary to control hiatal hernia. Following food item will help you to reduce pain and instances of the hernia.
1.Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar ia a very good remedy to reduce symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux caused by a hiatal hernia. Just add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a warm glass of water, stir it well and sip it slowly.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory capabilities so it can soothe the aching stomach and become an excellent home remedy for hiatal hernia. Steep one teaspoon of chamomile in a cup of water for 5 minutes, strain and let it cool. Drink warm tea.
3. Low Fat Yogurt
Eat unsweetened low-fat organic yogurt daily. This will maintain the balance between good and bad bacteria in your stomach.
4. Banana
Eat a properly ripe banana a day. This is easy on the stomach and digestion as well as it doesn't cause any acid reflux or heartburn.
5. Water
Drink warm water first thing early in the morning empty stomach while still in the bed. Even during the day never drink any ice cold water or juices. Always drink warm or room temperature water.
Foods to Avoid for Hiatal Hernia
People with hiatal hernia have to focus on what not to eat as compared to what to eat. While the above food items will help you to reduce instance of hiatal hernia, you must give up the following food items to be on the safer side as these items promote acid reflux and heartburn. You with hiatal hernia are more prone to acid reflux and heartburn.
- all fatty and fried foods
- Spicy food
- garlic and onions, peppermint and spearmint
- all citrus foods and juices (LEMONS, oranges, grapefruits, and lemonade, orange juice, grapefruit juice and cranberry juice)
- all tomato-based foods such as spaghetti sauce, pizza, chili, salsa, and tomato juice
- carbonated beverages, coffee, tea (including decaffeinated versions), and alcohol
- dairy products (whole milk, ice cream, and creamed food)
- oil and butter
If chocolate is your favourite, bad news, you have to give it up too.
Exercises for Hiatal Hernia
There are a number of exercises that will help in controlling stomach to relax and not protrude through the diaphragm. Standing and bending yoga postures are good for hiatal hernia.
Other Tips
You also need to change certain habits of yours to properly deal with your hiatal hernia.
- eat small portions of foods may times. Never overeat. Take your time to eat, chew well and remain calm during eating
- do not lie down or sleep at least 3 hours after a meal and do not bed over right side just after a meal
- stop smoking
- lose weight
- wear loose clothes to avoid any extra pressure on the stomach
- raise your bed 6-8 inches by putting wooden blocks below the top side of the bed. inclined bed with head 6 inches above the level of the feet will avoid acid reflux
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