Healthy Food Choices for GERD

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is caused by acid washing up the esophagus. Diet can help control GERD. Learn more about what to eat if you suffer from GERD in this video.

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Elevate head of bed 6 inches
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Wear loose clothing
Consult a doctor if symptoms occur frequently
Consult a doctor if treatments fail

About this Author

David Hill is Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also works as the vice-president of Cape Fear Pediatrics, and is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. David attended Rice University and Texas Medical School of Houston. He writes a monthly column for the Wilmington Parent, as well as, grant regular interviews with television channel WWAY regarding health topics. Sharing his extensive knowledge in a way that is accessible, and maintains healthy lifestyles is what Dr. Hill strives to achieve.

DR. DAVID HILL: Hey, today we are going to talk about the role of diet and treating gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when acid and other fluids from the stomach wash up into the esophagus. This can cause discomfort and injure the lining of the esophagus, which can normally protect itself against such things. There are several factors that can lead to gastroesophageal reflux, but diet is among them. Moderate to severe reflux disease can be quite dangerous and should be treated by a doctor. But mild symptoms may respond to a variety of lifestyle modifications. First of all, try elevating the head of your bed, six to eight inches, using blocks or a foam pad. Second, stop smoking or drinking alcohol. Both of those things can significantly worsen GERD. If you are wearing tight fitting clothing, go for something a little bit looser that won't push on your stomach, forcing acid back up. Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren't enough. And there are some very serious symptoms you should know that should send you to your doctor for further advice. If you have difficulty swallowing your food, or don't want to swallow, that can be a sign of damage to the esophagus. If you have boring, intense pain in the abdomen or lower chest that deserves some looking at. If you have signs of bleeding in your stools, such as black tarry stools, or bright red blood, you should always have that evaluated. And if your symptoms simply go on, despite conservative treatment, that is a good reason to see your doctor as well, for medical therapy or more. To review, gastroesophageal reflux occurs when juices and acid from the stomach wash up into the esophagus. It can be a benign condition, but it can also be dangerous for some people. Lifestyle modifications like weight loss, alcohol reduction, and smoking cessation can go a long way to stop the symptoms of GERD. If the symptoms continue or seems unusually severe, you should definitely seek medical care. That is diet and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Healthy Food Choices for GERD Video

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