An astonishing 15 million people are thought to suffer from acid reflux, otherwise known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. The burning sensation that accompanies GERD has sent many to the pharmacy in search of acid inhibitors, the well-known purple pill being a hot commodity in the pharmaceutical market. But what many fail to consider are the lack of real long-term results these pills offer. Not only that, they have the potential of causing a lifelong dependence and may even eventually worsen health problems.

A more sustainable approach can include looking closely at your diet and other things that could be contributing to your bouts of heartburn. Avoiding processed foods could make a tremendous difference in the intensity of your symptoms. Stress management is another key factor as stress is a common trigger for acid reflux, as it is for many health conditions. Finding and addressing the root cause is your best bet for finding true relief.