Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has become increasingly common amongst Western cultures. This chronic disease is now estimated to affect up to 27.8% of North America and 25.9% of Europe.1

With 1 out of every 4 people suffering from this condition, it is not surprising that direct and indirect healthcare costs associated with GERD in the United States has reached $15-$20 billion annually.2 Approximately half of this, $10 billion, is spent on medications to treat this condition each year. As you can see, those infamous purple pills aren’t cheap.

I will cover the basics on GERD in this article, including an overview of the disease, potential treatment options, and side effects related to treatment. I’ll also cover what you can do in the form of diet and lifestyle changes in order to prevent or treat GERD.

What Is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is the reflux of acid and other gastric (stomach) contents into the esophagus or beyond.3 GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) loses its ability to function properly, thereby remaining relaxed, and allowing acid to back up into the esophagus.

Sometimes GERD is so bad that it can even cause acid to flow all the way back to the oral cavity or even into the lungs. For this reason, a number of symptoms can occur besides the traditional
heartburn feeling and acid regurgitation many individuals get.4 These atypical symptoms may include:5

• Upper abdominal pain
• Abdominal pressure/fullness
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Bloating/belching
• Asthma/wheezing
• Laryngitis
• Hoarseness or sore throat
• Chronic cough
• Dental erosions

If left untreated, GERD can cause complications, some of which may be serious. These complications include inflammation of the esophagus, esophageal stricture (narrowing of esophagus causing swallowing difficulties), Barrett’s esophagus, esophageal cancer, and pulmonary diseases.6 It is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits (discussed later in this article) in order to prevent further damage and the progression of this serious disease.

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