Foods to Avoid that Cause Gerd Symptoms
Gastro esophageal reflux disease or GERD is a medical digestive condition in which the liquid content in the stomach is forced back into the esophagus. This is a reflux situation caused due to the improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). As soon as food is consumed the LES is supposed to close however in certain condition that does not happen. Hence in such cases the acid produced in the stomach enters the esophagus causing disruption in the normal digestive process. This acidic eruption into the esophagus may cause inflammation in its lining which results in esophageal reflux disease. Hence, it is important to understand gerd symptoms which helps in treating the condition immediately.
Causes for GERD
The stomach generates gastric acid which is a fluid that helps in the digestive process. This is responsible for enzyme activation and is suitable for digestion. It assists in ingesting proteins so that the digestive system can break down the long chain of amino acids. There are several reasons for GERD or acid reflux. The most common reason is due to the improper function of the LES. Studies conducted on several patients state that the irregular contraction and abnormal relaxation of the LES causes acid to flow into the esophagus. When there are more than two such refluxes in a week, it leads to severe gerd symptoms which are caused both to adults and children alike.
General Symptoms of GERD
Realizing the symptoms of acid reflux is not tough. However, such symptoms can get really worse due to complications formed thereafter. Some of the most common symptoms of acid reflux disease are:
• Inflammation of the area behind the ribcage or heat generation in heart after meals can stay up to several hours. This inflammation can at times move up to your stomach, abdomen or even the throat.
• Such symptoms can aggravate when lying down or bending. This is still another symptom of gerd which can cause severe discomfort.
• Bitterness of mouth or regurgitation in medical terms is caused due to such burning sensation in throat.
• In some cases patients can even suffer from chronic soreness and even lose their voice at times.
• Difficulty in swallowing and hiccups can take place.
• The worst or severe condition that require consulting the doctor are cases like blood vomiting or passing of black stools.
• The delay in muscle contraction of the esophagus can result in continuous cough for absolutely no reason at all.
Consult a doctor if you happen to have certain queries related to healthcare or the symptoms of the disease. Do not refrain from seeking medical assistance and acquiring information about gerd symptoms from a physician.
Foods to avoid
Consuming certain foods in your diet causes inflammation of heart or heartburn. Of all the methods to cure symptoms of gerd proper intake of dietary foods is the most common treatment. But in severe stages of the disease drug administration becomes essential. Hence, it is crucial to take action by treating gerd symptoms from an early stage. Foods that must be avoided for those suffering from gerd conditions are enlisted as follows:
• Alcohol – There are several reasons why alcohol influences acid reflux. it is known to relax the body which explains why it makes the contractions and relaxations of the LES irregular. Thus the combination of acid reflux and alcohol intake causes severe heartburn, abdominal pain and bloating.
• Caffeine – This is also an active muscle relaxing component which is similar to alcohol. Hence, it is recommended that you limit your caffeine intake in coffee or even beverages which contain this ingredient and causes acid reflux.
• Citrus fruits and juices – Citric fruits are highly acidic which can cause heartburn in patients. Oranges, lemons and grapefruit can cause acid reflux when consumed by a patient suffering from the disease.
• Onions, garlic and tomatoes – It is crucial to avoid consuming raw onion when suffering from indigestion symptoms. Garlic is also not recommended for people with this disease. Tomatoes for the similar reason are usually too acidic for people with gerd disease.
• Spicy and fried foods – Most people know that fried foods cause acid reflux as they are higher in trans-fat. This slows down digestion and initiates the juices to move back to the esophagus. Hence, it is important to avoid eating spicy and fried foods that contain chili pepper or are deep fried.