What is GERD?
GERD is a condition where stomach acid persistently flows back up into the mouth through the esophagus (the tube from throat to stomach).
The pathophysiology of GERD is complex as it involves changes in reflux exposure, epithelial resistance, and visceral sensitivity.
In a study, there was a report of monthly prevalence of GERD among Malaysians are 9.7% and weekly symptoms of 6%.
Common Risk Factors
Sign & Symptoms
•Heartburn
•Regurgitation (food flows back into the mouth)
•Difficulty swallowing
•Vomiting
•Sore throat and hoarseness
Complications
•Adult onset asthma
•Esophagitis (inflammation of esophagus)
•Stricture (narrowing of esophagus)
•Ulceration/bleeding
Food to Focus
•Vegetables (green beans, broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, leafy greens, potatoes, cucumbers)
•Ginger (grated or sliced ginger root to recipes or smoothies, or drink ginger tea)
•Oatmeal (whole-grain breads and whole-grain rice)
•Non-citrus fruits (melons, bananas, apples, pears)
•Lean meats and seafood
•Healthy fats (avocados, walnuts, flaxseed, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil)
Food to Avoid
•High-fat food (oily and greasy foods)
•Tomatoes and citrus fruits
•Chocolate
•Spicy food
Lifestyle Modifications
•Eat smaller, frequent meals
•Remain upright for at least 2 hours after eating.
•Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
•Avoid tight clothing
•Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
•Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress
References
1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2020 [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940#:~:text=Frequent%20or%20constant%20reflux%20can,the%20lining%20of%20your%20esophagus.
2. JE; TJP. Pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease [Internet]. Gastroenterology. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29037470/#:~:text=The%20pathogenesis%20of%20gastroesophageal%20reflux,the%20esophagus%20and%20elicits%20symptoms.
3. Goh K-L, Wong C-H. Gastroesophageal reflux disease: An emerging disease in Asia [Internet]. Gastroenterology & hepatology. Millennium Medical Publishing; 2006 [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5335627/
4. Madell R. 7 foods to add to your diet for acid reflux [Internet]. Healthline. Healthline Media; 2021 [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/diet-nutrition#helpful-foods
