Dr.Manoj Kumar Sahu converse about the impact of lifestyle on digestive health

Doctor explains GERD and blames unhealthy lifestyles for its occurrence

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Brand Connect
Last Updated: Mar 31, 2023, 13:34 IST1 min
Elephants play a role in the elimination of carbon dioxide. Image: Lakruwan Wanniarachchi / AFP
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach characterized by the backflow of stomach acids in the esophagus. In most cases, GERD can be relieved through diet and lifestyle changes however, some people may require medication or surgery.

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To prevent GERD

  • Instead of eating three large meals a day, cut your eating pattern into small frequent food portions.
  • Take smaller bites. Chew your food thoroughly before swallowing.
  • Gravity plays a vital role in controlling reflux. Maintaining an upright posture until the meal is digested may prevent heartburn.
  • If heartburn occurs regularly at night, consider raising the head of the bed or inserting a triangular wedge to keep your esophagus above the stomach.
  • Don"t lie down within 2 hours of eating.
The first step is to reduce your daily calorie intake. Reducing foods high in fat can help reduce calories while decreasing the risk of GERD. Food items like fried, greasy food, whole milk dairy product, chocolate, alcohol, spicy food, citrus foods, carbonated drinks, and tobacco should be avoided. Exercise and reducing weight can be especially helpful for people with GERD. Walking after a meal helps in calorie burning and digestion. This way, you are less likely to lie down after a meal and risk further stomach acid reflux.

Issued in Public Interest by Dr.Reddy"s Laboratories LTD

The pages slugged ‘Brand Connect’ are equivalent to advertisements and are not written and produced by Forbes India journalists.

First Published: Mar 31, 2023, 13:34

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