Manage Acid Reflux: Dietary Changes Can Reduce Symptoms
Acid reflux, a common condition affecting many, can be managed through dietary changes. Certain foods and beverages can trigger symptoms, while others may help alleviate them. Understanding these factors can reduce antacid use and potential side effects.
Acid reflux occurs due to the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Several factors contribute to this, including body position, meal size, and the type of foods consumed. Certain foods, such as high-fat meals, can lower pressure on the LES and delay stomach emptying, increasing the risk of reflux symptoms. Similarly, spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and trigger acid reflux in some individuals. Specific fruits and vegetables like pineapple, citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic, and onions may also worsen GERD symptoms. Beverages such as alcohol, coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, and citrus or tomato juices can act as triggers for some people. Diagnosed as gastroesophageal disease (GERD) if it occurs more than twice per week, acid reflux can be managed by modifying diet and eating habits, such as eating smaller portions and avoiding trigger foods. Long-term use of antacids may result in unwanted health effects like nausea, diarrhea, headaches, constipation, and hypercalcemia. While recent research does not directly link specific microbial species to exacerbating reflux symptoms, studies by Prof. Dr. Michaela Axt-Gadermann and Prof. Dr. Noll suggest that probiotic bacteria like Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria may influence microbiomes and reduce symptoms in other conditions, indicating a growing interest in microbiome research that might extend to reflux in the future.
Managing acid reflux involves identifying and avoiding trigger foods and beverages, eating smaller meals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. While antacids can provide relief, long-term use should be avoided due to potential side effects. Future research into the role of microbiomes in reflux may offer additional insights into managing this common condition.
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