Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly called GERD, is a chronic digestive disease that involves recurrent acid reflux, a condition in which stomach acid rises into the esophagus, and heartburn, which causes pain in the chest and upper abdomen. Medical treatments and lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, often help people with GERD manage their symptoms. Sufficient intake of vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium and vitamin D are known to support wellness in people with GERD.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that provides powerful antioxidant, or disease-fighting, properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, plentiful intake of antioxidants is significant in promoting wellness in people with GERD. Vitamin C assists in bodily tissue repair, relieving infections and disease, and has been shown to replenish other vital antioxidants in the body. Valuable sources of vitamin C include red and green peppers, citrus fruits, citrus juices, kiwifruit, brussel sprouts, tomato juice, cantaloupe, papaya, strawberries, blueberries, tomato juice and cabbage. Vitamin C is also prevalent in most multi-vitamin supplements.
B Vitamins
B vitamins support numerous functions in the body, including cell formation, cognitive function and reduction of bacteria in the intestinal tract. The UMMC suggests plentiful amounts of food rich in B vitamins as a helpful means of relieving GERD symptoms. Vitamin B-rich foods include fish, lean meats and poultry, yogurt, cow's milk, whole grains, spinach, kale, vitamin-fortified cereals and beverages and sea vegetables. A variety of vitamin B-rich foods is important toward attaining broadest nutritional benefits. Since certain B vitamins, such as vitamin B 12, is found primarily in animal-derived foods, vegetarians and others deficient in the nutrient may require B vitamin supplementation.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium is a vital mineral, stored primarily in a person's bones. People with GERD may experience calcium deficiency, which increases risk for osteoporosis, or brittle bones, and resultant bone fractures. Vitamin D is key in calcium absorption, and is found in various foods and supplements. It is also synthesized in the body in response to sun exposure. Valuable sources of calcium include cow's milk, fortified soy milk, yogurt, cheese, tofu, salmon, broccoli, almonds and apricots. Vitamin D sources include cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, tuna, milk, fortified orange juice and yogurt, and sardines. People who do not attain daily sun exposure or consume vitamin D or calcium-rich foods regularly may require supplementation.
