Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - Prevention

Prevention

GERD is largely preventable through changes in lifestyle, which are also used as treatment (see below).

Sleep on the left side, or with your upper body raised.

Relief is often found by raising the head of the bed to 30 degrees, raising the upper body with pillows, or sleeping sitting up. The upper body must be raised, not just the head; pillows that only raise the head do little for heartburn and put strain on the neck. Sleeping on the left side also keeps gravity working for you, keeping your stomach below your esophagus.

Eat smaller meals.

Eating a big meal causes excess stomach acid production, so attacks can be minimized by eating smaller meals. It is also important to avoid eating shortly before bedtime.

Lose weight.

Gaining even a few pounds increases your risk of heartburn. Exactly why isn't clear, but the leading theory is that more body fat puts more pressure on the stomach, which can cause highly acidic stomach contents to reflux to the lower esophageal sphincter. For the same reason, tight clothing around the abdomen can also increase the risk of heartburn.

Avoid acidic and rich foods.

Though less well supported by evidence, a sufferer may benefit from avoiding foods that trigger their symptoms. These commonly include acidic fruit or juices, fatty foods, coffee, tea, onions, peppermint, chocolate, especially shortly before bedtime.

Avoid consuming irritating substances that can trigger heartburn symptoms such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol