5Alcohol
Alcohol relaxes the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter), allowing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It also increases the production of stomach acid and makes your throat more sensitive to stomach acid. Drinking alcohol 2-3 hours before bed or lying flat immediately after drinking can increase the risk that you’ll experience heartburn at night. This is because alcohol can relax the lower part of the esophagus, making it easier for your stomach acid to back up. Most researchers have concluded that drinking alcohol, especially large quantities, increases the risk of GERD. [4]















