Millions of people worldwide suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which severely lowers their quality of life. Beyond traditional treatments like medicine and surgery, GERD requires attention because of its symptoms, which can range from heartburn to difficulties swallowing. As the top female surgeon in Chennai, Dr. Preethi Mrinalini K., offers her experience to Marina’s Clinic, illuminating the hidden causes linked to nutrition and lifestyle choices and providing practical solutions.

The Role of Food in GERD:

An important factor in the treatment of GERD is diet. For example, foods high in fat might worsen symptoms by weakening the muscle that keeps stomach acids from backing up into the oesophagus—the lower oesophagal sphincter, or LES. Following are a few typical food triggers:

Fatty Foods: Greasy, high-fat foods are notorious for their role in worsening GERD symptoms. Reducing intake of items like fried foods, butter, and creamy sauces can help manage symptoms.
Acidic Foods and Beverages: Tomatoes, citrus fruits, and sodas can increase the acidity of stomach contents, leading to more severe reflux.
Spicy Foods: While spices can add wonderful flavour, they can also irritate the oesophagus and worsen reflux symptoms.
Caffeine and Alcohol: These relax the LES and can trigger reflux, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Understanding individual triggers is essential, as reactions can vary from person to person. Keeping a food diary can be an effective way to identify which foods exacerbate your GERD symptoms.

Lifestyle Factors Contributing to GERD

Aside from diet, various lifestyle factors can influence the severity of GERD symptoms. These include:

Eating Habits: Overeating or eating close to bedtime can increase the likelihood of reflux. It’s advisable to eat smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid eating at least three hours before going to sleep.
Body Weight: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can increase the pressure on the stomach and LES, exacerbating reflux symptoms. Managing body weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce the severity of GERD.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol use can impair the function of the LES, leading to increased reflux.
Stress: While stress itself doesn’t cause GERD, it can lead to behaviours (like overeating or smoking) that trigger symptoms. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise can be beneficial.

Strategies for Managing GERD

Managing GERD effectively requires a holistic approach that includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and possibly medical treatment. Here are some strategies to consider:

Diet Modification: Work with a healthcare provider to identify and eliminate food triggers. Incorporating alkaline foods like bananas, melons, and cucumbers can help neutralise stomach acids.
Regular Exercise: Moderate, consistent exercise can help manage body weight and reduce GERD symptoms. However, avoid vigorous activities immediately after meals as they might increase reflux.
Proper Posture: Maintaining a good posture during and after meals can prevent the stomach contents from pressing against the LES.
Medical Consultation: Seek advice from a healthcare provider if your GERD symptoms are not improving. As the top female surgeon in Chennai and a specialist at Marina’s Clinic, Dr. Preethi Mrinalini K offers professional guidance and individualized treatment plans.

Our mission at Marina’s Clinic is to provide patients with all the information and treatment choices they need to manage their GERD effectively. People can reduce symptoms and enhance their quality of life by being proactive in learning the hidden triggers of GERD.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Marina’s Clinic or contact Dr.Preethi Mrinalini K, who is dedicated to providing top-tier gastrointestinal care in Chennai.