Innocent Habits That Secretly Trigger Acid Reflux

55. The Subtle Habit of Sipping from a Squeeze-Bottle

Sipping from a straw is on our list, but the modern sports bottle can be just as problematic. Squeezing a bottle to drink forces a stream of liquid out, often causing you to swallow more air with each gulp. This excess air accumulates in your stomach, increasing internal pressure and making it easier for acid to creep back up. To prevent this, try to drink from a regular cup or a bottle with a wider mouth that allows you to drink naturally without squeezing. A simple change in how you hydrate can dramatically reduce the gas and pressure that lead to heartburn.

56. The Overlooked Habit of Mouth Breathing

While our list mentions snoring, a more subtle culprit is simply breathing through your mouth, a habit many of us have, especially when sleeping or congested. When you breathe through your mouth, you swallow more air, which increases the pressure inside your stomach. This internal pressure can force acid back up into your esophagus. This habit also dries out your mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva is a natural acid neutralizer, so a lack of it leaves your esophagus more vulnerable to irritation. Addressing nasal congestion or learning to breathe through your nose can be a game-changer for reflux.