Acid reflux versus active lifestyle
One of the contributing factors to acid reflux disease is a sedentary lifestyle. If you are affected by acid reflux, remember that the path to healing begins with a few steps, and in this case, literal steps. An active lifestyle can be both a great defense and an offense not only against acid reflux but also against a wide range of other diseases. So the question is, what is an active lifestyle?
For the person who leads a sedentary lifestyle, the idea of moving to an active lifestyle can seem like a daunting prospect. So much so that they often give up before trying to think that it is beyond their capabilities. They imagine that an active lifestyle consists of going to the gym every day and doing the equivalent of training for a marathon. But the truth is that positive steps can be taken in a few small steps, baby steps if you will.
You’ll be amazed how a few small lifestyle changes can change a person’s entire perspective on what it’s really like to be “active.” There are many different levels of active lifestyles and most of it is a gradual process, but it all starts with one step. What kind of step could you ask for? Well, the list of activities one can engage in is virtually limitless, but just to get the ideas flowing and start your path to healing, here are four easy steps you can take to start your path to a healthier lifestyle. and active that will be a great countermeasure against acid reflux and a whole range of other ailments.
Step number one: Walk or jog in place. It may sound cliché, but getting off the couch and walking or jogging on the spot can be a great way to get some exercise and start a beginner exercise program. If this sounds boring and you need extra motivation, try turning on the radio or TV and walking or jogging while listening or watching. You’ll be amazed how quickly thirty minutes can go by when your favorite show or music helps you through your exercise routine.
Step number two: go up the stairs. Avoid elevators and escalators and take the stairs whenever possible. This may seem like a minor lifestyle adjustment, but it has a beneficial cumulative effect. Just think of it as a series of mini stair master workout routines.
Step number three: find a sport that you enjoy. Remember, it doesn’t have to be marathon training (although one day, you may be surprised to find you’re up for the challenge). Even something like ping pong or shuffleboard will get you on your feet and moving. You’ll burn calories, lose weight, and have fun doing it. These are great steps to counteract acid reflux and improve your overall condition.
Step number four: Get up every twenty minutes. If you have a desk job or tend to sit around the house a lot, make a habit of getting up every twenty minutes and walking around a bit. Even if it’s just to grab a drink from the water cooler, a brisk walk will do your body good and break up long periods of sedentary behavior. Sometimes this may not be possible depending on your work situation, of course, but as much as possible, try not to sit for long periods of time. Remember, every time you get up and move, you burn more calories. When you burn more calories, you’ll lose more weight, which are of course beneficial steps to counter acid reflux and improve your overall health.
By Paul Renier