You can't let reflux stop you from moving. You need to pay attention to certain things if you want to exercise with reflux disease. Let's look at what you need to look out for.

In the case of reflux, there is no specific form of exercise that is contraindicated or even to be avoided. You should choose the type and intensity of exercise according to your own fitness level and the severity of your reflux. There are some forms of exercise which can of course increase the flow of stomach acid into the oesophagus. This could include running, lifting weights or lying down. But you should know that exercise can also have a very good effect on reflux disease. In many cases, reflux is also associated with being overweight, so it is very important to normalise and reduce your body weight. And exercise is a huge step forward in this. Regular exercise can increase the metabolism, speed up and increase gastric emptying.

In many cases, complaints may get worse temporarily, but there is no need to be alarmed. Always start with low activity exercise and 30 minutes a day is enough to get you started. Once the complaints have subsided, you can then increase the workload. A jog or walk is a great place to start. Then you can also do running or cycling. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing so you don't put pressure on your abdomen. Eating at the right time is also very important. Meals should preferably be eaten 2-3 hours before exercise. This is a much more effective way to avoid stomach acid getting into the oesophagus.

And of course, it's also important to eat more low-fat foods and plenty of fruit and vegetables. There are certain foods that are not really recommended for reflux, such as chocolate, garlic and tomatoes. It is recommended to eat only about 1 hour after exercise. For drinks, you should also reduce or avoid carbonated drinks, coffee and alcohol. When exercising, always drink water or sports drinks, but still drink non-carbonated water.

Smoking cessation is also highly recommended. In more severe cases of reflux, it is advisable to take a stomach acid blocker, and in milder cases, baking soda is recommended.

So, to sum up, the point is that exercise is important even with reflux. However, only start with low activity levels and it is also worth eating healthier.