Gastroesophageal Reflux (reflux Disease, Heartburn, Acid Reflux, GERD)

Manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn) from time to time is not uncommon, but some people suffer from a burning discomfort, bloating and belching almost every time you eat. A significant percentage of the population has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) , a condition of chronic acid reflux diagnosed by a doctor.

The esophageal sphincter (the muscular tube that passes food into the stomach and then closes to block it from returning) usually protects the esophagus from stomach acid. However, if the sphincter relaxes, food can be pushed up through the loosened opening and cause acid reflux. The acid can cause severe chemical burns to the esophagus, vocal cords and pharynx. Acid damage is painful and can cause discomfort.

Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (reflux disease) can not do without strict adherence to diet, as it plays a major role in controlling symptoms. In fact, the patient's menu limits not just a lot, but a huge amount of food. Should not be consumed:

• fatty, fried and spicy food,
• orange and tomato juice,
• chocolate (even dark),
• spices.

Foods and drinks that can cause heartburn

Foods that are known to cause heartburn to cause the esophageal sphincter to relax and slow down the digestive process, leaving food to stay in the stomach longer. Foods high in fat, salt, or spices that cause this condition are:

• fried foods;
• fast food;
• pizza;
• potato chips and other processed snacks;
• chili powder and black pepper (white, black, cayenne);
• hot spices and herbs;
• flavored foods containing large amounts of preservatives;
• fatty meats such as bacon and sausage;
• smoked meats;
• high-fat dairy products;
• fermented and processed foods;
• cheese.

Under no circumstances should salads flavored with mayonnaise be taken. Absolutely contraindicated are:

• garlic and onion;
• vinegar;
• cream cakes;
• cinnamon;
• fish and meat broths;
• cucumbers, peppers, fresh tomatoes, turnips, and cabbage;
• apples;
• coffee is also strictly forbidden.

Other foods and beverages that can cause the same problem are:

• tomato-based sauces;
• citrus fruits;
• mint;
• alcohol (especially dry wines);
• carbonated drinks;
• strong tea.

Foods and drinks that help prevent acid reflux

If you are very worried about the increased acidity, you can drink a glass of freshwater or eat a piece of raw potato before eating. The same effect will have a crust of white bread or two hazelnuts. In reflux disease, alcohol should not be consumed, especially on an empty stomach.

It should be noted that smoking is absolutely forbidden, also before going to bed, generally, after 6 o'clock in the evening, it is best to refrain from eating. It is very appropriate before bed to take advantage of that medicinal plant called chamomile. You will be convinced that the effect is shocking.

There are many foods you can eat to prevent acid reflux. Include in your diet:

• orange and yellow fruits (oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, persimmon, apricots, peaches) and vegetables (pumpkin, peppers) - they contain antacids, which naturally reduce acidity and soothe the pain;
• berries (black and cranberries, blackberries) and pineapple - contain bromelain, which reduces heartburn;
• raw vegetables (broccoli, avocado) and leafy vegetables (basil, spinach, lettuce, parsley);
• nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts);
• seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame);
• meat (lean parts of the chicken, turkey, and beef);
• fish (all lean species).

Stock up on your kitchen with foods from these three categories:

Fiber foods make a person feel full for a longer time, reducing the likelihood of overeating and heartburn. Suitable are:

• cereals: such as oatmeal, couscous, brown rice, millet;
• root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets;
• vegetables such as asparagus and green beans.
• wholemeal products - help maintain a normal acid-base balance in the stomach.

Foods have different pH (an indicator of acidity and alkalinity levels). Those with low pH (7) are alkaline and can help compensate for strong stomach acid. Alkaline foods include:

• bananas (eat regularly, preferably in the morning);
• dried pears, plums and peaches;
• melons;
• Cauliflower;
• dill;
• nuts.

Baked tomatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, as well as freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey and apple cider vinegar are foods high in potassium, which alkalize stomach acid and reduce its amount.

Eating foods that are high in water can dilute and weaken stomach acid. Such products are:

• whole;
• cucumbers;
• lettuce;
• watermelon;
• broth-based soups;
• herbal tea.

Home remedies for relieving acid reflux

People suffering from reflux disease often take antacids, over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid. Eating certain foods can also relieve symptoms. These are:

In gastroesophageal reflux it is good to drink yogurt (they normalize the motor function of the intestine, and this is the most important thing in the treatment of reflux). Milk is also believed to relieve. It should be borne in mind that there are different types - full-fat, 2% fat, semi-fat and non-fat. The fat in the product can worsen acid reflux. However, skimmed milk types act as a temporary buffer between the gastric mucosa and the acidic stomach contents, immediately relieving the symptoms of heartburn. Low-fat yogurt has the same soothing properties along with a healthy dose of probiotics (good bacteria that improve digestion).

Although there is not enough research to prove that drinking apple cider vinegar relieves acid reflux, many people report that it helps them. Pure vinegar should not be taken because it is a strong acid that can irritate the esophagus. Instead, combine with a small amount of warm water and drink with a meal.

Lemon juice is generally considered very acidic, but a small amount of lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey has an alkalizing effect that neutralizes stomach acid. In addition, honey contains natural antioxidants that protect cells.

Consultation with a gastroenterologist for gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux)

If you have heartburn tw or more times a week and changes in diet or diet do not help, consult a doctor. A gastroenterologist (a doctor who specializes in gastrointestinal diseases) can perform the necessary tests to measure the acidity in the stomach and see if frequent acid reflux has damaged the esophagus.

GERD is often treated through a combination of lifestyle changes, diet and medication. Persistent reflux symptoms need an in-depth assessment by a gastroenterologist who can identify the root cause and discuss available treatment options.

Here are some tips that will help you with heartburn:

1. The concentration of acids in the stomach and esophagus can be reduced if you drink a glass of fresh water before each meal.
2. When lying down, gastric juice penetrates more easily into the esophagus, so you should give up the habit of taking a nap after eating. In severe reflux disease, it is recommended to eat straight and then walk for about 30 minutes. In addition, you should not go to bed 3 hours after eating.
3. The diet should be antioxidant, ie it includes foods that reduce the acidity of the stomach, remove toxins from the body and help prevent further damage to the cells of the esophagus.
4. To reduce stress on the stomach, it is necessary to eat often, but less (small portions 4-5 times a day). In addition, drink a few sips of water (tea, juice).
5. Regarding the drinks: lightly brewed tea diluted with milk is very suitable; with food can take water with baking soda or sweet juice (for example, from pears or peaches). An extremely valuable drink is rosehip infusion. This is a real medicine against heartburn. It is easy to prepare: put 2 tablespoons of dried rose hips in a thermos and pour boiling water. After 6 hours strain. On this basis you can make a compote with apples or dried fruits, for example.
6. You need to temporarily part with tight pants and tight belts: they press on the abdomen and diaphragm, and this also leads to the expulsion of gastric juice into the esophagus.

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