Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects about 20% of adults and 10% of kids in the United States. If you struggle with heartburn, acid backwash, chest discomfort, a sore throat, or a chronic cough that comes from GERD, some simple lifestyle changes can ease your discomfort.
See Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, at his private practice in Manhattan’s Upper West Side in New York City for a gastroenterology consultation and customized GERD treatment plan.
GERD comes from the backflow of stomach contents into your esophagus, causing irritation and sometimes pain. Risk factors for GERD include:
Adopting healthy habits may reduce or eliminate bothersome symptoms.
Try the following five tips to ease GERD symptoms naturally and enhance your quality of life:
Some foods are more problematic than others for individuals who are struggling with GERD. Examples of foods you may need to limit or avoid include highly processed foods, coffee, tea, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol, peppermint, onions, garlic, and fatty, spicy, or fried foods. Limit chocolate, tomatoes, citrus fruits, vinegar, and other acidic options.
Avoid eating large meals — especially right before bedtime — to lessen GERD symptoms. Intead, have smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Wait at least three hours after eating a meal before lying down.
Carrying excess body weight is a common GERD risk factor. Adopt healthy habits that aim you toward your target body weight to relieve troublesome symptoms. For example, get plenty of sleep, stay active, eat nutritious whole foods, minimize stress, and drink a lot of water throughout the day.
Smoking is a GERD risk factor that also boosts your chance of developing cancer and other chronic diseases. If you’re a smoker and struggle to quit on your own, seek help from a healthcare professional or support group.
Elevating the head of your bed is another simple lifestyle modification you can make to ease or eliminate GERD symptoms. Raise the head of your bed by 6-9 inches by placing blocks underneath, or insert a wedge between your box spring and mattress to elevate your upper body as you sleep. Lie down on your left side to further ease symptoms.
Constricting clothes, especially a tight waistband, can squeeze your stomach contents and boost the risk of backflow up into your esophagus. Wear loose-fitting clothing if you experience persistent GERD symptoms.
If making lifestyle adjustments alone isn’t enough to eliminate problematic GERD symptoms, Dr. Seecoomar may suggest you take over-the-counter medications, try prescription medicines, or undergo a medical procedure. He tailors a GERD treatment plan based on your individualized needs.
Don’t live with a constant burn in your chest when simple solutions can ease the discomfort. Call Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, at 212-217-9961 or request an appointment online today.
