Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Today Dr Oz spoke on foods that can cause heartburn and foods that can soothe the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. I have aded some useful information on Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) along with Dr Oz Heartburn Helpers What To Do About Heartburn
Dr Oz Foods To Soothe Heartburn
Ginger root and beans are heartburn helpers, but foods such as cheese is high in fat and slows down the emptying of acid in the stomach and increases pressure on the Esophageal sphincter. Tomatoes are chock full of nutrients but they are highly acidic and can cause heartburn.
Foods such as Black Beans are a source of protein and have fiber in them and help prevent heartburn, and Ginger root is an anti-inflammatory and can reduce stomach acid and has a calming effect on the nerves. Dr Oz says you can take Ginger in a capsule form or a tea as it is very effective for treating the acid in your stomach.
Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Chronic GERD that is untreated can cause serious complications. Inflammation of the esophagus from refluxed stomach acid can damage the lining and cause bleeding or ulcers—also called esophagitis. Scars from tissue damage can lead to strictures—narrowing of the esophagus—that make swallowing difficult. Some people develop Barrett’s esophagus, in which cells in the esophageal lining take on an abnormal shape and color. Over time, the cells can lead to esophageal cancer, which is often fatal. Persons with GERD and its complications should be monitored closely by a physician.
Frequent heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD in adults. Anyone experiencing heartburn twice a week or more may have GERD.
You can have GERD without having heartburn. Your symptoms could include a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing.
Studies have shown that GERD may worsen or contribute to asthma, chronic cough, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Foods That Can Cause Heartburn
Common foods that can worsen reflux symptoms include;
- citrus fruits
- chocolate
- drinks with caffeine or alcohol
- fatty and fried foods
- garlic and onions
- mint flavorings
- spicy foods
- tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza
When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn or acid indigestion. Occasional GER is common and does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD.
Antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Riopan, are usually the first drugs recommended to relieve heartburn and other mild GERD symptoms. Many brands on the market use different combinations of three basic salts—magnesium, calcium, and aluminum—with hydroxide or bicarbonate ions to neutralize the acid in your stomach. Antacids, however, can have side effects. Magnesium salt can lead to diarrhea, and aluminum salt may cause constipation. Aluminum and magnesium salts are often combined in a single product to balance these effects.
Calcium carbonate antacids, such as Tums, Titralac, and Alka-2, can also be a supplemental source of calcium. They can cause constipation as well.
Foaming agents, such as Gaviscon, work by covering your stomach contents with foam to prevent reflux.
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