Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Causes

Each time you eat, stomach acids are released. Normally the lower esophageal sphincter acts as a guard to prevent stomach acids from backing up into the esophagus. An increase of the pressure in the stomach and/or relaxation of the muscle tone of the valve may cause reflux to occur.

Factors that cause an increase in pressure are:

• Full stomach,

• Obesity,

• Lying down,

• Bending forward,

• Pregnancy and

• Tight clothing. 

Factors that loosen the muscle tone of the valve can be caused by:

• Pregnancy,

• Nicotine,

• Alcohol, Coffee, tea,

• Chocolate,

• Mint and

• Fatty foods.