Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

154 ALICE CALLAHAN, PHD, HEATHER LEONARD, MED, RDN, AND TAMBERLY POWELL, MS, RDN
Figure 3.15. In gastroesophageal reflux, the acidic contents of the stomach escape backwards
into the esophagus, causing pain and burning sensations in the chest and/or throat.
Occasional heartburn is a common complaint, especially after eating large greasy or
spicy meals. However, if it occurs more than twice per week, it may be diagnosed as
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which should be treated not only to relieve the
discomfort that it causes but also to prevent damage to the tissues of the esophagus, which
can increase the risk of cancer. In addition to heartburn, GER and GERD can cause difficult
and painful swallowing, a persistent sore throat or cough, a sense that there’s a lump in your
throat, and nausea and vomiting.
The symptoms of GER and GERD can often be addressed through diet and lifestyle
changes, including the following:
• Avoid foods that seem to trigger symptoms. Common culprits are greasy or spicy
foods, chocolate, coffee, peppermint, alcohol, and acidic foods such as tomatoes or
citrus.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals.
• Avoid eating 3 hours before bedtime, and stay upright for 3 hours after eating.
• Wear clothing that is loose around the abdomen.
• Raise the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches by placing blocks under the bedposts.
(Extra pillows will not help.)