Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A Detailed Guide to Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs due to increased presence of gastric content, gastric acid and bile in the food pipe.
How does GERD happen?
Lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring- like muscle at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach, becomes weakened or does not function properly. Normally, the LES opens to allow food and liquids to pass into the stomach and closes to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.
When the LES fails to close properly, stomach acid and food can flow backward into the esophagus. This acid irritates the esophagus, causing the symptoms of GERD. Unlike occasional acid reflux, GERD requires long- term treatment to prevent damage and discomfort.
Effective Ways to Treat GERD
1. Cut Back on Spicy, Fatty, and Acidic Foods
To manage GERD symptoms, limit or avoid the following foods:
- Spicy Foods: Hot sauce, curry, and Fried delicacies like puri, shakarpara, gujia and samosa, food with chilly powder, excessive garam masala etc.
- Fatty Foods: Fried foods, greasy dishes and Fat-rich sweets, laddoos, barfis, jalebi and sheera.
- Acidic Foods: Tomato-based sauces and carbonated drinks
- Citrus fruits: They don’t always increase reflux but if you feel acid reflux increases with citrus fruit consumption, you can cut them down.
2. Eat More Fiber, Alkaline, and Water-Based Foods
Certain foods can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux. These include:
- Fiber-Rich Foods: Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa, as well as vegetables like carrots, spinach, and beets, can help reduce the pressure on the stomach and ease digestion.
- Alkaline Foods: Alkaline foods like bananas, melons, cauliflower, and fennel can help balance stomach acid levels.
- Water-Based Foods: Foods with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery, can help dilute stomach acid and soothe the
3. Have Smaller, More Frequent Meals
- Eat smaller portions throughout the day (4-6 meals) to avoid overloading your
- Wait at least 10-15 minutes after finishing a meal before deciding if you need a second helping.
- Avoid large meals that cause your stomach to stretch, which can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
4. Stay Upright After Eating
- Avoid lying down or reclining for at least 3 hours after a meal.
- Take a walk or sit upright to help your food digest
- Avoid taking naps immediately after meals
5. Avoid Eating Late
Eating large meals or snacking before bedtime increases the risk of reflux during the night. It is advisable to wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down.
6. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
- Opt for loose-fitting clothes that don’t constrict your
- Avoid tight waistbands, belts, and form-fitting outfits
7. Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Aim to lose weight through a balanced diet and regular
- Even a modest weight loss can reduce the pressure on your stomach and significantly improve GERD symptoms.
- Consult with your doctor or a dietitian to create a sustainable weight loss plan that aligns with your overall health goals.
8. Quit Smoking
- Quit smoking to help restore normal function to the
- Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs and nicotine replacement therapy (e.g., patches or gum) to help you quit.
9. Take Antacids for Quick Relief
- Over-the-counter antacids like Ranitidine, Oeperazole, Pantoperazole or digene syrup can provide fast, short- term relief for mild GERD symptoms.
- However, antacids should not be used regularly, as overuse can lead to side effects like diarrhea or kidney problems.
- Check with your doctor before using antacids frequently, especially if you have other underlying health conditions.
10. Discuss Probiotics with Your Doctor
Probiotics, such as those found in yogurt or as supplements, can help improve gut health and aid digestion.
11. See a Doctor if GERD Is Persistent
If lifestyle changes and medications don’t provide relief from chronic GERD, or if symptoms worsen over time, it’s crucial to see a doctor. Persistent GERD can cause severe complications, including esophageal damage or an increased risk of cancer. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and may suggest:
- Endoscopy to examine the esophagus for signs of damage or
- Prescription medications, including stronger PPIs or H2 blockers, tailored to your
Surgical options, such as laparoscopic antireflux surgery, if medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective. This procedure strengthens the LES and prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
12. Dietary Adjustments
Certain foods and beverages can relax the LES or irritate the esophagus. To manage GERD, it is crucial to avoid trigger foods and incorporate GERD-friendly foods into the diet:
Avoid Trigger Foods: Spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, citrus, fatty foods, and carbonated drinks can all relax the LES or increase
