Discover the Impact of Acid Reflux and 25 Ways to Alleviate It

14. Quit Lighting Up

Smokers are more likely to experience acid reflux than nonsmokers. Saliva contains bicarbonate that neutralizes refluxed acid, and smokers produce less of it. Additionally, tobacco components weaken the LES, allowing acid to flow backward into the esophagus. Nicotine also increases stomach acid production and promotes the movement of bile salts to the stomach, aggravating the acid reflux. The body can reverse some of the effects of smoking, starting almost as soon as the last cigarette is ground out. Research indicates that smoking cessation can significantly improve GERD symptoms for at least a year after quitting.