Simple strategy to relieve GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) is a common digestive issue that affects nearly one third of the adult United States population
Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) is a common digestive issue that affects nearly one third of the adult United States population.
Symptoms can include heartburn, gas, bloating, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing and cramping. Antacids and acid-blocking drugs are often used to treat the symptoms of GERD; however, these drugs can cause an increased risk of osteoporosis, heart arrhythmias and nutrient deficiencies.
Some research also shows these drugs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancers. The efficacy of these drugs has also been questioned.
New research published in Hepatogastroenterology demonstrated that eliminating between-meal eating significantly reduced symptoms of GERD.
In a pilot study featuring 20 patients who had endoscopically diagnosed GERD, the researchers found that when the participants ate two regular meals per day and only fluids in between, GERD symptoms were reduced and the esophagus began healing after only 10 days.
According to the study, 100% of the patients with mild GERD benefited from the dietary advice and 66% of patents with moderate GERD benefited. Only 33% of the patients with severe GERD benefited from the dietary advice.
This study suggests that in cases of mild to moderate GERD, reducing between meal eating could help patients avoid taking common over-the-counter and prescription drugs for GERD.
