Is there a
special GERD diet that can help
acid reflux sufferers rid themselves of their
troublesome symptoms? Recent researches support the
assumption that acid reflux patients, especially those
with moderate symptoms, can significantly improve their
medical condition by comparatively simple dietary
measures. Changing dietary patterns to treat acid reflux
is strongly supported by both conventional and
alternative medical approaches.
GERD and Diet
The
tight connection between
diet and
GERD
management is derived
from the gastric/digestive pathophysiology of this
medical impairment. Generally speaking, GERD (gastro
esophageal reflux disease), also known as acid reflux,
is a malfunction of the digestive system. Gastro
esophageal reflux disease occurs when the LES (lower
esophageal sphincter) - a muscle that acts as a valve
between the esophagus and the stomach - does not close
properly and gastric acids from the stomach splash back,
or reflux, into the esophagus.
The
symptoms of acid reflux vary from patient to patient.
Most patients suffer from heartburn - the burning
sensation in the chest and/or throat that occurs when
refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the
esophagus. Some patients report other/ additional
symptoms, such as trouble swallowing, chest pain,
hoarseness, the feeling of food stuck in the throat and
dry cough. When left untreated, acid reflux can cause
serious health complications, namely ulcers, Barrett's
esophagus and even cancer. For the reasons mentioned
above, gastro esophageal reflux disease must be
addressed comprehensively and in a timely
manner.
Dietary changes and weight loss
are strongly recommended for
GERD patients as a first step for tackling this
condition (as part of a comprehensive holistic
intervention).
One of the main principles of
anti-GERD diet is avoiding foods that weaken the LES's
muscle. There are numerous natural physiological
substances that can reduce the pressure on the LES,
namely dopamine, prostaglandins and acetylcholine. Foods
that contain those substances or
contribute to their creation in the human body (i. e.
fatty foods, peppermint, spearmint and chocolate) should
therefore be removed from an acid reflux diet. Smoking,
caffeine-laden drinks or alcohol can also decrease the
pressure on the LES and therefore should also be limited
in consumption.
Another
important principle of acid reflux dietary management is
consuming your last daily meal at least three hours
before bedtime, since food (especially diary products),
stimulates acid secretion. In addition, elevating the
head's position in the bed 6-8 inches higher can
diminish the exposure of acid to the
esophagus.
Finally,
spicy meals have the tendency to irritate the esophageal
mucosa. Many acid reflux patients state that their
symptoms tend to worsen when they eat spicy foods or
drink coffee on a regular basis.
Dietary
Restrictions and Controlling GERD
While
GERD diet can be
effective at achieving an immediate relief, note that
changing dietary patterns is not a cure per se,
especially in
severe
cases acid reflux
. This is only a first important step of complete
and comprehensive all natural holistic approach.
Did you
know that your troublesome, painful symptoms of gastro
esophageal reflux disease could be permanently
eliminated without conventional medicine or common over
the counters? Adhering to the holistic approach (by
taking specific herbal and vitamin supplements while
following a complete set of dietary principals,
detoxification and Candida control protocols) can cure
your GERD naturally and prevent its recurrence,
safely and
effectively.
