Some people might think that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the same as heartburn, but it is slightly different and requires special attention.
Otherwise, people might suffer from severe symptom complications.
What is GERD?
GERD is a name that stands for “a chronic condition caused by the backflow of acid, bile, enzymes, and food into the esophagus.” The most common triggers are overeating, certain foods and beverages, and sleeping after eating. GERD occurs because of the valve between the lower end of the esophagus. And the stomach doesn’t close properly and allows the stomach contents to reach the esophagus and throat.
Then a person can have discomfort in the chest or throat and sour throat. If these symptoms occur more than a few times a week, it is most likely to be diagnosed with GERD. There are further problems if the condition is not treated as “refluxed stomach acid can erode or cause ulcerations in the lining of the esophagus.”
Also, other problems and complications might appear:
- A scar tissue – makes it hard to swallow food.
- Higher risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus which means that there is severe damage to the esophageal lining
- increased risk of esophageal cancer
GERD problem has become more topical over the years. Estimations show that about 25 million Americans suffer from this health problem. Board-certified nutrition specialist Chen Ben Asher also notes that it has become easier to diagnose the disease and treat it.
Dietary and lifestyle contributions to GERD
People might have different factors that contribute to disease. Some might experience heartburn when eating spicy foods. There are profs that tobacco and being overweight also help in developing GERD. Extra fat creates extra pressure on the stomach. This undesirable pressure makes esophageal sphincter not to be longer able to perform its task to keep the stomach contents from getting into the esophagus.
Choosing different and well-balanced food can also help to avoid GERD symptoms. Spicy foods like peppers can cause heartburn, and that is a sign of stopping eating them. Crucial is to quit smoking because it causes decreased blood flow into the stomach lining and increases acid production. There are special medicaments too to deal with the problem but they also adverse effects by themselves.
Prescribed medications can interrupt the normal absorption of vitamins and minerals and inhibit the food digestion. Supervision of specialists will have to make the best balance of medications and additional nutritional support. Natural remedies like d-limonene can help to resolute the GERD symptoms.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is something that needs special attention not to cause more severe symptoms. As there is a better understanding of this disease, it is possible to make the best program to help everyone and get the best test results. A further step is up to a person to take towards a better lifestyle and health.
How to Manage Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Accessed from: http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2007/4/atd/page-01rel=”nofollow”
BOARD CERTIFIED IN HOLISTIC NUTRITION, CHEN BEN ASHER IS PROVIDING A RANGE OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS TO SUPPORT YOUR BODY IN BEING HEALTHY. CHECK THEM ALL HERE.
MEET CHEN BEN ASHER
Chen is a Functional Nutrition expert consultant, leading authority on weight management, women’s health and gluten sensitivity. She is a clinician, public speaker, educator and Amazon Best Seller author of “What If Gluten Free Is Not Enough – The Balanced Diet”.
Chen uses Functional Nutrition to help you find answers to the root causes of your illness and address the biochemical imbalances that may trigger your health and weight. She uses cutting edge lab testing and design the nutritional program to your specific needs as an individual. Food, supplements, lifestyle changes will have integrated to bring balance
If you are looking for personalized nutritional support, we highly recommended contacting Mor’s Nutrition & More Wellness Center in Cupertino, California today.