Digestive Diseases - Lifestyle Changes for Treating GERD

The gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by acid reflux episodes that occur more than two times a week. Once the digestive disease has been diagnosed, the doctor may or may not prescribe medications depending on how frequently acid reflux occurs and on how serious the symptoms are. However, the physician will certainly recommend certain lifestyle changes that are bound to reduce the frequency of acid reflux episodes and to give you considerably relief from the symptoms.

Quit smoking. This is the first piece of advice doctors give to GERD patients. The harmful substances in tobacco not only damage the lungs, but also the sensitive lining of the esophagus and the stomach. More importantly, it has been found that tobacco is a muscle relaxant so it works to stimulate the opening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which causes stomach acid to splash up the esophagus. For these reasons, it is essential not to smoke.


© Photographer: Kiosea39 | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Lose weight if you are overweight or obese. These two factors contribute greatly to GERD and pose a greater risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. It is important to keep your weight within the normal limits for your height, gender and age. Doctors highlight the importance of natural weight loss. You should try to lose weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising on a daily basis.

Avoid eating foods that trigger acid reflux. These include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes and tomato-based sauces, chocolate, garlic and onions and fatty and fried foods. Mint is also not recommended for people with GERD. You should avoid some types of drinks and, namely, alcohol, carbonated drinks, tea and coffee.

Eat smaller portions of foods more frequently. This kind of diet change has been proven to be extremely beneficial for GERD patients as it allows for the reduced production of stomach acid. As a result, it is less likely to splash up the esophagus.

Have your last meal for the day at least 3 hours before going to bed. When you lie down, you make it easier for stomach acid to move up the esophagus. If there is only a small amount of stomach acid, this risk is considerably reduced. That is why it is important not to eat just before bedtime. In general, raising the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by placing wood blocks underneath the bedposts should help prevent acid reflux when you lie down as well.

Wear loose clothes especially during and after meals. If there is pressure on your stomach, acid reflux is more likely to occur. Patients with GERD are strongly recommended not to wear belts either.