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Foods That Cause Gerd
By admin | November 10, 2008
Understanding The Foods That Cause GERD
GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease), commonly referred to as acid reflux, is a condition where the bile, acid and food particles flow from the stomach back into the esophagus. While there can be a few factors and foods that cause GERD, an important key to dealing with the condition is knowing which foods exacerbate it and avoiding those foods. Unfortunately, many people who suffer from GERD (or know those who do) are unaware of their options in living with and treating the condition. This article will offer a bit of insight regarding foods that GERD-sufferers should consider avoiding along with a few tips that can help resolve the issue.
Knowing How Food Impacts GERD
The first step in knowing which foods to eat and which to avoid is understanding how certain foods affect GERD. That begins with knowing how the condition manifests. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a small band of muscle that contracts to close the passageway of the esophagus. When food passes from the esophagus to the stomach the LES contracts, preventing foods from coming back up into the esophagus. When someone suffers from GERD, the LES often does not close properly or relaxes at inappropriate times. Both instances allow material to flow back into the esophagus, resulting in a painful sensation often called heartburn.
Knowing this process is important in learning the foods that cause GERD and aggravate the condition. Many spicy foods can weaken the LES or cause it to relax and open partially. Foods with a high-fat content can remain in the stomach for longer periods, increasing the chances of a “flow back” happening into the esophagus. GERD-sufferers should also avoid chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine which has been known to relax the LES, causing reflux.
Liquids can aggravate GERD, too. Carbonated beverages and alcohol have shown a tendency to relax the LES. Similarly, drinks that contain caffeine such as teas, coffees or lattes can also relax the LES, causing reflux to happen into the esophagus. As important as knowing the foods that cause GERD and irritate the condition, it’s equally critical to realize that cigarettes can relax the LES.
Living With GERD
Many people live with GERD. While it is painful when it happens and annoying, you should always keep in mind the foods that cause GERD, it is possible to plan your dietary habits around the condition.
Firstly, try to eat smaller meals. Doing so puts less food in your stomach, less pressure on your LES and lessens the likelihood of a reflux event.
Secondly, if your are severely overweight, shed the extra pounds. Obesity puts excess pressure on your abdominal area, pushing your stomach contents back up against your LES.
Thirdly, if you smoke often, try quitting. Fourth, try to avoid eating within 3 hours of going to bed. When you’re lying down, the food in your stomach presses against your LES.
Lastly, avoid the food and drinks that are known to aggravate GERD. Though doing these can take effort and planning, living without the pain of heartburn may make it worthwhile.
Topics: Acid Reflux, Diet for Heartburn, Heartburn, gerd | No Comments »