Lifestyle Changes that Improve GERD

GERD Tips from Dr. Thanjan

GERD is a disease where acid from the stomach goes upward into the tube-like structure that connects the mouth to the stomach called the esophagus. Some GERD symptoms may include the following:

• A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn)
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dry cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
• Acid reflux
• Sensation of a lump in your throat.

There are basic diet and lifestyle changes that patients can make to potentially improve their GERD or chronic heartburn.  Foods that may make reflux worse include spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate, overly fatty foods, and peppermint.

Lifestyle changes include losing weight if overweight, raising the head of the bed by 6-8 inches, minimizing alcohol use, stopping cigarette smoking, and avoiding lying flat 3 hours after a meal. For more digestive health tips, visit our patient resources!