Diet and GERD: What You Need to Know
The foods we eat matter, especially for those of us who have GERD. In case you’re unsure what GERD is, it stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD occurs when the acid in your stomach flows back into your esophagus, which causes heartburn and acid reflux. People with GERD need to be careful about what they eat, but that doesn’t mean that it’s complicated or boring. Here are some quick and easy tips to make sure you’re eating with GERD in mind: To achieve a thorough learning journey, we suggest exploring this external source. It contains valuable and relevant information about the subject. https://geriatricacademy.com/shoulder-blade-pain-from-acid-reflux-or-gerd/, immerse yourself further and broaden your understanding!
In addition to making these dietary changes, you may also need to consider taking medication to manage your GERD symptoms. The good news is that there are many effective medications available to reduce stomach acid and help heal your esophagus.
The Latest Medications for Managing GERD and Heartburn
One of the most commonly prescribed types of medications for GERD is proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by blocking acid production in the stomach, which can reduce GERD symptoms and promote healing. Some widely used and effective PPIs include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and esomeprazole (Nexium).
Another type of medication that is often used to manage GERD symptoms is H2 blockers. These medications work by blocking histamine, which can reduce stomach acid production. Some common H2 blockers include ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and cimetidine (Tagamet).
For people who experience occasional heartburn or acid reflux, over-the-counter antacids like Tums or Rolaids can be effective. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, which can provide quick but temporary relief.
New Research in GERD Treatment
While there are many effective medications and lifestyle changes to help manage GERD symptoms, there is still ongoing research to improve treatment options. One recent study found that a low-carbohydrate diet may be more effective than a low-fat diet for managing GERD symptoms. The study followed 214 participants with GERD for six days and found that those on a low-carb diet had greater improvements in heartburn symptoms than those on a low-fat diet.
Another area of research is focused on a procedure called transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF). TIF is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a device called an endoscope to create a fold in the stomach that can help prevent reflux. Several studies have found that TIF can be an effective treatment option for GERD, but it’s still considered a newer and less common procedure.
The Bottom Line
If you suffer from GERD, it’s important to make dietary changes and consider medication to help manage your symptoms. There are many effective medications available, including PPIs, H2 blockers, and antacids. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating new treatment options like a low-carbohydrate diet and TIF. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you, and remember to always make healthy choices to support your overall well-being. Learn more about the topic with this suggested external resource. Discover this helpful research, uncover additional details and fresh viewpoints on the topic covered in this piece.
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