Why Is Chocolate Bad For Hiatal Hernia?

Cocoa can cause the intestinal cells that relax the esophageal sphincter to release a surge of serotonin

. When this muscle relaxes, gastric contents can rise. This causes a burning sensation in the esophagus. Chocolate also contains caffeine and theobromine, which can increase symptoms.

What causes a hiatal hernia to flare up?

What causes a flare-up of a hiatal hernia?

Hiatal hernias do not flare-up

. It is a structural problem. But symptoms can be worsened by eating foods that trigger gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), eating large meals, lying down after eating, and stress can trigger symptoms of hiatal hernia.

Does chocolate worsen acid reflux?

Chocolate is another common trigger for heartburn. Like high-fat foods,

chocolate can relax the lower esophageal sphincter

(14, 15 ). This may allow stomach acid to escape into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Does drinking water help hiatal hernia?

Hiatal hernia treatment often involves medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes. These at-home exercises may help push the stomach back down through the diaphragm to relieve symptoms:

Drink a glass of warm water first thing in the morning

.

How can I stop my hiatal hernia from getting worse?

1. losing excess weight.
2. not straining during bowel movements.
3. getting help when lifting heavy objects.
4. avoiding tight belts and certain abdominal exercises.

What can I drink to soothe my esophagus?

Chamomile, licorice, slippery elm, and marshmallow

may make better herbal remedies to soothe GERD symptoms. Licorice helps increase the mucus coating of the esophageal lining, which helps calm the effects of stomach acid.

How do you calm a hiatal hernia?

1. Eat several smaller meals throughout the day rather than a few large meals.
2. Avoid foods that trigger heartburn, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
3. Avoid lying down after a meal or eating late in the day.
4. Maintain a healthy weight.
5. Stop smoking.

Are eggs bad for acid reflux?

Egg whites are a good option.

Limit egg yolks

, though, which are high in fat and may trigger reflux symptoms.

What snacks are OK for acid reflux?

• Non-citrus fruits.
• Crackers with any type of nut butter.
• Raw vegetables with dip or hummus.
• Baked chips.
• Edamame.
• Pretzels.
• Nuts.
• Half an avocado and some corn chips.

Are apples good for acid reflux?

Apples are

a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium

. It's thought that these alkalizing minerals may help relieve symptoms of acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises into the esophagus.

How should I sleep with a hiatal hernia?

When your stomach is full, avoid bending over or lying down. This increases abdominal pressure and makes heartburn more likely. Do not bend over or lie down

for two to three hours after eating

. Raise the head of the bed six to eight inches by using wooden blocks under the bedposts.

What food aggravates hiatal hernia?

• Citrus foods, such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, and orange juice, grapefruit juice, cranberry juice, and lemonade.
• Chocolate.
• Fatty and fried foods, such as fried chicken and fatty cuts of meat.
• Garlic and onions.
• Spicy food.
• Peppermint and spearmint.

Can Apple cider vinegar help with hiatal hernia?

Drinking a small amount of diluted apple cider

vinegar at the beginning of meals

may also help reduce symptoms.

What irritates hiatal hernia?

Some foods, such as

carbonated beverages, citrus fruits

, and more, may increase symptoms in some people diagnosed with a hiatal hernia. Other foods, like fatty fried foods, are problematic to most people who experience symptoms of GERD.

What exercises are bad for hiatal hernia?

People with hiatal hernias should avoid exercises that strain the abdominal muscles, such as

sit-ups and crunches

. People should also be wary of weightlifting. Lifting heavy weights, or even heavy boxes or furniture, can strain the abdomen and make the hernia worse.

How can I shrink my hernia naturally?

1. Aloe vera. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. …
2. Taking short and light meals. Changes in diet are good for getting relief from hiatal hernia. …
3. Castor seed oil. …
4. Ice pack. …
5. Vegetable juice. …
6. Cycling excercise. …
7. Pool exercises for light resistance. …
8. Walk for 30 minutes.