Do you suffer from recurring heartburn more than twice per week? If so, you should see your doctor because you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as Acid Reflux.
The primary symptoms of GERD are persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (valve between the esophagus and stomach) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back or “reflux” into the esophagus. The esophagus is responsible for carrying food from the mouth to the stomach.
Stomach acid that is refluxed into the esophagus causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat, which is referred to as heartburn. Occasional heartburn, although a common occurrence for some, does not mean an individual has GERD. Heartburn occurring more than twice weekly may be considered GERD, but should be diagnosed by a medical doctor. If GERD is left untreated, it can be harmful due to recurring acid reflux that can irritate the lining of the esophagus and lead to complications.
Individuals suffering from GERD may be able to link their heartburn symptoms to specific foods. Dietary changes can help manage acid reflux that causes heartburn:
•First, it is recommended to eat small frequent meals instead of consuming 3 big meals daily. Smaller amounts of food exert less of a workload on the stomach. Therefore, less acid is required for digestion.
•Consume foods high in complex carbohydrates (such as whole grain breads, pasta, rice); they do not cause excess stomach acid to be produced.
•Avoid high fat foods--they remain in the stomach longer and require more acid for digestion.
•It is also important not to overeat. A large amount of food consumed at one time will stimulate the stomach to create more acid in order to digest food.
•Limit or avoid foods that stimulate acid production, such as foods containing caffeine (coffee, tea); avoid highly acidic foods such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, tomatoes; avoid high fat, greasy, or spicy foods such as french fries, potato chips, buffalo wings, etc.; avoid sweets/desserts and beverages containing alcohol.
•After eating, try sitting in an upright position for as long as possible while food is being digested.
•Elevating the head of the bed when lying down may also help prevent acid reflux.
FYI: drinking milk after a large meal is not a “quick fix” to acid reflux. Milk has a rebound action, which would eventually cause secretion of more stomach acid.
Other lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms of GERD. Maintaining a healthy weight is important. Being overweight or obesity increases abdominal pressure which can force stomach contents up into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Decreasing weight will help improve symptoms of acid reflux. If you are a smoker, it is important to quit for many health reasons other than to help reduce/prevent acid reflux.
Some dietary supplements may be effective for relieving heartburn. Calcium carbonate and some B vitamins such as pantothenic acid, thiamin, and choline may have long-term digestive benefits. It has been suggested to try supplementation for a month or so to see if it may help with relieving heartburn. A suggested dose of calcium carbonate is up to 500 mg three times a day with meals. A B-complex supplement can provide some key B vitamins that may abate symptoms of acid reflux over time.
Most importantly, individuals should be seen by their physician for the proper treatment of GERD. Aside from dietary changes, over-the-counter medications (antacids or acid-suppressive medications) are available. For patients with more severe symptoms, prescription medications are available to treat symptoms of GERD, if necessary.
