GERD or known as gastro esophageal reflux disease is a kind of condition that is focused on the digestive systems of people. The chronic pain of the acid reflux is suffered by many people around the world. This condition is very widespread and it is a disease that is commonly incurred by the stomach contents reflux that reaches the esophagus. The disease is quite common among adults and even to infants and although it may not be life threatening but it can lead to more serious conditions if it is not treated properly or at the right time. Many people will experience a very mild case of acid reflux every once and awhile, and pregnant woman are also prone to this disorder.

The reason some people develop GERD is still unclear. However, research shows that in people with GERD, the LES relaxes while the rest of the esophagus is working. Anatomical abnormalities such as a hiatal hernia may also contribute to GERD. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach and the LES move above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, acid reflux can occur more easily. A hiatal hernia can occur in people of any age and is most often a normal finding in otherwise healthy people over age 50. Most of the time, a hiatal hernia produces no symptoms.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, affects at least an estimated 5% to 7% of the global population – men, women, and children. (Prevalence based on once per day heartburn.) Heartburn and/or acid regurgitation experienced weekly has been found to occur in 19.8% of individuals.[1]

Treatments and drugs

Antacids. Antacids, such as Maalox, Mylanta, Gelusil, Rolaids and Tums, neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief. But antacids alone won’t heal an inflamed esophagus damaged by stomach acid. Overuse of some antacids can cause side effects such as diarrhea or constipation. A good GERD diet includes of foods that are not unusual to us and are incorporated in the nutritional chart as recommended for everybody. The GERD diet restrictions for those who have gastro esophageal reflux disease are not as bad as some people might think of. The foods for gerd diet consist of low fat meats, turkey and fish also along with almost all vegetables. The breads that may consume are only those made from non fat or low fat milk. There are a few types of foods that are well considered as being GERD diet foods. This includes fresh vegetables and fruits, broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, baked potatoes, ground beef, egg whites, fish, cheese, cream cheese, cookies, potato chips, and salad dressing.All of these are GERD diet foods because rather than infuriating your condition they in fact going to help relieve your symptoms.

A doctor may also recommend different medications to relieve symptoms. Over-the-counter antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer or Maalox, work by neutralizing stomach acid and can help with mild symptoms. Other medications called H2 blockers are available over the counter and by prescription and help by blocking the production of stomach acid. If your doctor thinks you should take these, he or she will recommend certain over-the-counter medications or write you a prescription.

Excerpt from: Gerd Diet