Lifestyle Modifications that Can Relieve Discomfort Caused by GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GE) is a result of a faulty lower esophageal sphincter. When this ring doesn’t close properly, the contents of your stomach leak back into your esophagus and affect the back of your throat to cause a burning in the chest. If you experience this heartburn sensation more than twice a week, it’s diagnosed as GERD, and over time it can lead to serious health problems.

Medications can be used to ease symptoms, but lifestyle changes, especially those involving your diet, may be enough to relieve the discomfort caused by GERD. Our team here at GastroDoxs in Cypress, Texas, can help you adopt these habits.

Achieve a healthy weight

When you’re overweight or obese, the extra pounds put pressure on your abdomen. This pushes up your stomach and causes acid reflux. We can help guide you with dietary and exercise recommendations.

Elevate the head of your bed

Lying flat in bed can make it hard to find comfort when you have GERD. Use blocks or an adjustable bed to prop your head end up 6-9 inches. This allows a better flow of digestion so you don’t have a backup into your esophagus.

Better yet, don’t lie down after a meal, and wait about three hours after eating before reclining.

Eat small, frequent meals

Large meals can increase pressure on your stomach and trigger reflux. When you eat, chew thoroughly and enjoy your food at a leisurely pace.

Stop smoking

Smoking makes it harder for your lower esophageal sphincter to function. Smoking also increases your production of stomach acid. If you need assistance to quit smoking, the team at GastroDoxs can help.

Avoid tight clothes

Constrictive waistbands and belts put pressure on your stomach, resulting in potential reflux symptoms. Loose clothing helps all of your body relax.

Eat the right foods

Certain foods can trigger GERD symptoms. Avoid caffeine, carbonation, tomatoes, mints, alcohol, garlic and onions, spicy foods, and fried or greasy foods. Chocolate can also be a GERD trigger.

A GERD-friendly diet

When you plan meals, include foods that are less likely to trigger GERD symptoms. Avoiding the trigger foods above, or any others that bother you, is the most important strategy. You also may want to keep your fat intake to a minimum, because fat stays in the stomach longer and may worsen GERD symptoms.  

To limit fat, using fat-free and low-fat dairy are good choices. You can also opt for low-fat versions of sour cream, mayonnaise, and salad dressings.

For protein, stick to baked, roasted, or grilled lean proteins such as lean pork, shellfish, eggs, low fat deli meats, and dried beans.

Enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, but if you find any triggers – such as citrus – avoid them. All vegetables, aside from tomatoes and onions, tend to be relatively safe for GERD. Try not to add too much fat when cooking them.

It can be hard to make all these changes without adequate support, but you can trust our specialists at GastroDoxs to help you manage GERD. Contact our office if you’re concerned about GERD symptoms and need help keeping your symptoms at bay.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Does Diverticulitis Go Away On Its Own?

Diverticulitis is inflammation of diverticula, small pouches that form on the lining of the digestive system. Diverticulitis often heals on its own, but dietary changes, rest, antibiotics, and, rarely, surgery can help.

Help for Dysphagia

When you have dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing, it can be hard to get the nutrition you need. People with the condition may lose too much weight and are at a greater risk of choking. Help is available.

Understanding Your Risk for Colon Cancer

An average risk of colon cancer means you have about a 5% chance of developing the disease in your lifetime. Risk increases with age and other factors, like a family history of the disease. Learn more about your risk for developing colon cancer.

When Abdominal Pain Is Cause for Concern

Everyone experiences abdominal pain at times, but how do you know when it’s more than a passing virus or just a bad case of constipation? The following signs indicate that you should pay attention to your abdominal pain and seek medical care.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Constipation

Constipation isn’t something you should just tolerate. Chronic constipation causes discomfort and can be a sign of a medical condition. Here’s why you should get checked out if you’re struggling with constipation.

Here's When to Seek Help for Diarrhea

Diarrhea can feel miserable or be concerning, but short-term episodes happen to just about everyone from time to time and don’t usually require a visit to the doctor. But, there are times when diarrhea does signal a need for medical help.