Details: Category: Region 9; Published: 10 January 2023

GERD Did you know that there are certain foods that you need if you have Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). When you swallow, the lower esophageal sphincter, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus, relaxes, allowing food and drink to pass into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again. If the sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus. This constant backwash of acid (acid reflux) irritates the lining of your esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. If you experience moderate to severe acid reflux at least once a week or mild acid reflux at least twice a week, you may have GERD.

People who are obese are at risk of developing GERD. Other conditions that can increase your risk of GERD include bulging of the top of the stomach up into the diaphragm, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma, and delayed stomach emptying. Acid reflux can also be made worse by factors such as smoking, eating large meals, eating certain foods such as fatty or fried foods, drinking certain beverages such as alcohol or coffee, and taking medications such as aspirin. Heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest that typically occurs at night after eating, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and sensation of a lump in your throat are all common symptoms of GERD. If you have night time acid reflux, you might experience chronic cough, laryngitis, new or worsened asthma, and sleep disruptions. Seek immediate medical attention if you have chest pain, especially if you also have arm or jaw pain and shortness of breath. These could be warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack.

Changes in lifestyle and behavior can help alleviate symptoms of GERD. These include avoiding overeating, not eating 2 to 3 hours before sleeping, quitting or avoiding smoking, losing weight if overweight, and not wearing tight clothes. Foods like greasy foods, spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, coffee, foods containing tomato products, and alcoholic drinks must be avoided if you want to avoid GERD symptoms. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, fatty foods may delay stomach emptying and may increase your risk for reflux symptoms. Studies have also suggested that spicy foods can cause abdominal pain and burning symptoms if you have a functional gastrointestinal disorder. You can lessen your acid reflux symptoms by changing your diet and eating habits. Eat well and follow your doctor’s orders!

ZDN DMO II Rowence F. Zorilla, RND

References: