Manage GERD Symptoms

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when digestive acids flow from the stomach to the esophagus. Most people with GERD experience some type of heartburn, and may also experience a sharp chest pain. In general, symptoms are most often felt after meals or when lying down.

If you experience GERD, you already know how unpleasant the symptoms can be. Fortunately, there are a few ways you may be able to lessen the symptoms and alleviate your discomfort after meals. Try these tips:

Avoid certain foods: Some foods are known to exacerbate GERD symptoms, particularly those that are very acidic. Generally speaking, most experts recommend you avoid alcohol, coffee, tomatoes, onions and citrus juices if you have GERD. Other foods that might cause heartburn include chocolate, spicy foods and fried foods. Experiment with different foods - or even keep a food diary - to see which ones are most likely to cause heartburn for you.

Eat smaller meals: Big meals cause our stomach to fill up with food - and stomach acid. And the fuller our stomachs are, the more likely our digestive juices will spill back into our esophagus. Eating smaller, more frequent meals means our food will be more easily digested, which means we're less likely to experience heartburn. Instead of eating three big meals a day, try five or six mini-meals instead. At the very least, try to stop eating before you feel completely stuffed.

Quit smoking: Nicotine may affect the valve between your stomach and esophagus, causing it to allow digestive juices to flow the wrong direction, and thus creating heartburn. Avoid smoking or using smokeless tobacco if you experience GERD symptoms. You'll not only lessen your heartburn symptoms, you'll also lower your risk of some cancers.