Eating for Digestive Health: Tips for People with GERD

 Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a range of symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. While there is no cure for GERD, diet and lifestyle changes can help manage its symptoms. In this blog, we will discuss eating for digestive health with the guidance of renowned dietician Sheela Seharawat.

Sheela Seharawat is the founder of Diet Clinic, a leading chain of weight loss clinics in India. With over 18 years of experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics, she has helped countless individuals manage their GERD symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.

Eating for Digestive Health: Tips for People with GERD

1. Avoid Trigger Foods: Certain foods can trigger GERD symptoms. Common triggers include spicy foods, fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits. People with GERD should avoid these foods or consume them in moderation.
2. Eat Smaller Meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can help reduce GERD symptoms. Large meals can put pressure on the stomach, causing acid to flow back into the esophagus.
3. Don't Lie Down After Eating: Lying down after eating can increase the risk of acid reflux. People with GERD should wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down.
4. Choose Low-Fat Foods: High-fat foods can slow down digestion and increase the risk of acid reflux. People with GERD should choose low-fat foods like lean meats, fish, and vegetables.
5. Chew Food Slowly and Thoroughly: Chewing food slowly and thoroughly can help reduce the risk of acid reflux. It allows the stomach to digest food more easily and reduces the pressure on the esophageal sphincter.
6. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce GERD symptoms. People with GERD can elevate the head of their bed or use a wedge pillow.

In addition to these dietary tips, people with GERD should also avoid smoking and limit their alcohol intake. Regular exercise can also be beneficial for maintaining overall health and managing GERD symptoms.

By working with a dietician like Sheela Seharawat, people with GERD can learn how to develop a healthy eating plan that meets their specific dietary needs. Sheela can provide guidance on which foods to include in their diet and which ones to avoid. She can also help them develop an exercise plan that is safe and effective for their specific needs.

In conclusion, eating for digestive health is important for managing GERD symptoms. By following these dietary guidelines and working with a dietician like Sheela Seharawat, people with GERD can reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life. So, if you are looking to manage your GERD symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to Diet Clinic and schedule an appointment with Sheela Seharawat today!