Innocent Habits That Secretly Trigger Acid Reflux

59. The Overlooked Influence of Cold Weather

Many people experience worse reflux symptoms in the winter, and it's not just from holiday feasts. The sudden change in temperature from a warm indoor environment to the cold outdoors can cause your body to constrict, particularly your muscles and blood vessels. This can put pressure on your abdomen and slow down your digestive system, leading to an increase in reflux. Additionally, the cold air can irritate your throat and lungs, which can lead to a cough that then exacerbates the reflux. Dressing warmly and staying indoors after eating can help prevent this surprising trigger.

60. The Subtle Habit of Grinding Your Teeth

While often associated with stress and anxiety, teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night, can be a hidden cause of acid reflux. The constant clenching and grinding of your jaw puts pressure on the muscles in your head and neck, which can then affect the nerves and muscles in your esophagus. This can lead to a subtle but consistent relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), making it easier for acid to escape. If you wake up with a sore jaw and have chronic heartburn, it may be a sign that your nighttime grinding is the culprit. Using a mouth guard at night can help alleviate this pressure and improve your reflux symptoms.