For many of us, the fall season means one thing… FOOTBALL! Every weekend, millions of Americans prepare to position themselves in front of the TV for a steady diet of touchdowns, game changing plays and endzone celebrations. Of course, it isn’t a football game without tables filled with lots of tailgate treats. Between the spicy chicken wings, the cold beer, and an afternoon nap on the couch, you’re preparing the perfect recipe for acid reflux. Sure, it’s all in the name of game day tradition, but we think you can do without that last piece of the puzzle!

Before you dig into the tailgate feast, here are a few things you need to know about acid reflux.

Acid Reflux is actually a medical term that refers to a symptom that is very common! You may have experienced it before: the burning pain felt internally around the lower chest area. Well, it’s caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus, and if you experience acid reflux more than twice a week, you may have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, or GORD for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease).

Some common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Heartburn: a burning pain or discomfort that may move from your stomach to your abdomen or chest, or even up into your throat
• Regurgitation: a sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into your throat or mouth
• Bloating
• Burping
• Hiccups
• Nausea

If you’re thinking “Yuck!” you’re not alone. The experience itself isn’t too pleasant, in fact, acid reflux can be painful enough to interrupt your day to day activities. If you experience these symptoms two or more times a week or if medications don’t seem to bring lasting relief, it’s time to head to your local AFC to get your symptoms under control.

Here are some things that are most likely to trigger your symptoms:

• Snacking close to bedtime or eating or lying down right after a big meal
• Alcohol
• Carbonated beverages
• Citrus fruits
• Fatty or fried foods
• Food containing tomatoes
• Spicy foods
• Garlic and onions

Don’t let acid reflux keep you from enjoying the big game this weekend. If you know you’re at risk for these symptoms, make sure you take the precautions ahead of time!

Tell us – do you have any healthy tailgate treats that keep reflux away?