What is GERD? The connection between heartburn and GERD

What is GERD? The connection between heartburn and GERD

What is GERD! GERD is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, a very common and irritating condition. It can be simply understood as a disorder in which stomach contents irritate the esophagus. Normally, once food reaches the stomach, the acid does not go back into the esophagus.

When this happens, it causes a burning sensation called heartburn which is very uncomfortable. Many people suffer from this condition, usually after eating a certain type of meal. Some doctors say it's a nutritional problem and conclude that if you don't eat a balanced diet, you're putting yourself at risk for heartburn.

Some people get heartburn from frequently eating starchy foods like sweet potatoes or Irish potatoes, and some get heartburn from eating beans. Another group of people who often suffer from heartburn are pregnant women and children. The good news is that this condition can be controlled through a balanced diet.

When people are diagnosed with GERD, it's only natural that they ask what GERD is and how it can be treated. Some foods that can be used to counteract GERD when it occurs are oatmeal, ginger, aloe vera… The foods mentioned here are low in vitamin C and have very low acidity. Based on this assumption, most nutritionists and dietitians advise their clients to consume foods low in vitamin C and acid to curb GERD.

Not all diseases can be controlled through a balanced diet. Since the cause of GERD is mainly the transport of food back into the esophagus. Sometimes the (LES) is the problem, not the food. Look at it this way; The LES (lower esophageal sphincter), the lower part of the esophagus that connects to the stomach, is supposed to open to allow food to enter the stomach.

However, in some cases it can be weak, allowing food to move back up the esophagus, causing heartburn. In such a case, a balanced diet in itself will definitely not solve the problem. As mentioned earlier, you may need to add foods to your diet that counteract GERD and effectively cure the LES.

In some cases, medications that help reduce stomach acid are used to treat GERD. There are other natural home remedies that involve changing your lifestyle. It will help you reduce your weight, avoid alcoholic drinks and discipline yourself to eat smaller portions. If you smoke, be aware that smoking weakens the LES and it would be wise to seriously consider quitting.

Inspired by Eldridge Williams II