Yoga benefits: Cure GERD and digestive disorders with yoga poses like vajrasana, anulom-vilom, others

Best yoga pose: Vajrasana improves digestion and helps prevent acid reflux by promoting proper gastric function and reducing pressure on the stomach (Image: Canva)

Digestive disorders, particularly Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), can impact your daily life, causing discomfort and long-term complications. While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) remain the go-to treatment, certain cases, especially severe or PPI-refractory GERD, require additional interventions. According to a study conducted at The University Hospital, New Jersey Medical School, introducing yoga into conventional medical treatment can be beneficial in reducing GERD symptoms and potentially delaying or even avoiding invasive procedures like fundoplication surgery.

GERD: Causes and challenges

GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) help reduce acid production and provide symptom relief, several underlying factors contribute to GERD, including hiatal hernia, esophageal motility disorders, gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), asthma and respiratory conditions, diabetes, pregnancy, and the side effects of medications like NSAIDs and bisphosphonates. Since GERD has multiple triggers, effective treatments are many, addressing both physiological and lifestyle factors.

Also read | Improve digestion naturally: Keep your digestive system happy with these 6 tips

How yoga helps in managing GERD:

Yoga is known to improve digestion, reduce stress, and improve gut motility, all of which can contribute to better GERD control. Certain yoga postures and breathing exercises help strengthen the diaphragm and improve esophageal function, reducing reflux episodes.

Yoga poses that may benefit in GERD: Yoga helps to reduce stress. Certain yoga poses may aid in managing GERD by improving digestion, strengthening abdominal muscles, and reducing stress.

Vajrasana improves digestion and helps prevent acid reflux by promoting proper gastric function and reducing pressure on the stomach. Ardha matsyendrasana improves digestion, stimulates the abdominal organs, and relieves bloating by encouraging intestinal movement.

Also read | Bond with your gut: 7 ways to improve your digestive system, boost mental health

Additionally, bhujangasana strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves posture, and promotes better spinal alignment, which can reduce acid reflux symptoms. Plus, anulom vilom, a breathing technique, helps regulate the nervous system, lowers stress levels, and boosts oxygen flow, which can indirectly aid digestion and reduce GERD triggers. Adding these yoga poses to a daily routine, along with mindful eating and lifestyle modifications, can provide long-term relief from GERD symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.