Myths and facts about gastroesophageal reflux disease

14/03/2017

Among the most frequent and unpleasant pathological situations that daily afflict a lot of people, is the gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Definition

   Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a malfunction of the valve in the upper part of stomach and regulates the entry and maintenance of food in the stomach. The relaxation or weakness of this lower esophageal sphincter leads to the returm of the stomachs’s content back up in to the esophagus, thus casing heart burn and flatulence.

   Which are the myths and facts around GERD?

GERD does not affect the quality of life.

Lie. GERD causes many unpleasant symptoms such as heartburn, bloating or discomfort, which may be present throughout the day or even appear during sleep. Chronic and untreated GERD may cayse esophagitis, spoilage of teeth, esophageal ulcer, Barrett’s esophagus, etc.

GERD occurs more often in overweight people

True. Among the most common causative factors of GERD is obesity. The reason is that because of accumulated fat particularly in the abdomen, there is increased pressure on the stomach thus leads to GERD.

Bedtime may exacerbate the symptoms of GERD?

Truth. The reflux of esophageal sphincter is significantly affected by posture. For this reason, it is recommended people to lie down after food digestion is completed or to lie down with a pillow in the back in order to prevent reflux.

There are not herbal supplements that can reduce the symptoms of GERD.

Lie. In nature there are many herbs that thanks to their properties can form a protective layer on the mucosa of the esophagus and stomach, that soothes and protects from increased acidity. Moreover, herbs can act against gastric pain and bloating or create a protective barrier preventing reflux of food and gastric acid into the esophagus.

Diet is the best treatment of GERD.

Truth. Guidelines recommende to avoid foods and beverages that can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. These foods include fatty foods, very sweet or sour foods, alcoholic beverages, coffee and even chocolate. Additionally it is recommended not to consume fried foods and many spices.

   In Vita4you you can find a wide variety of dietary supplements that help treat gastroesophageal reflux disease and heartburn.

Iro Gounitsioti

Msc, Bsc Clinical Dietitian - Nutritionist specialized in obesity, diabetes management, athletic nutrition as well as in nutritional supplements.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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