Do mints help acid reflux. The Impact of Peppermint on Acid Reflux: Separating Fact from Fiction
Does peppermint help or worsen acid reflux symptoms. What are the effects of peppermint on the lower esophageal sphincter. How does peppermint interact with GERD. What are alternative remedies for acid reflux relief.
Understanding Acid Reflux and GERD: Causes and Symptoms
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing uncomfortable symptoms. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more severe, chronic form of acid reflux. Common symptoms include:
- Heartburn or burning sensation in the chest
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
The primary cause of acid reflux is a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. When the LES relaxes inappropriately or becomes weak, it allows stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.
The Peppermint Paradox: Friend or Foe for Acid Reflux Sufferers?
Peppermint has long been touted as a natural remedy for various digestive issues, including indigestion and nausea. However, its effects on acid reflux are not as straightforward as many believe.
How does peppermint affect the digestive system?
Peppermint has several properties that influence digestion:
- Antispasmodic effects: It can relax smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract
- Carminative properties: Helps reduce gas and bloating
- Analgesic qualities: May provide pain relief
- Antibacterial and antifungal properties: Can help prevent stomach infections
While these effects can be beneficial for some digestive issues, they may exacerbate acid reflux symptoms in certain individuals.
The Mechanism Behind Peppermint’s Potential Negative Impact on Acid Reflux
Despite its soothing reputation, peppermint may worsen acid reflux symptoms for some people. The primary reason lies in its effect on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
How does peppermint affect the LES?
Peppermint can relax the LES, which is problematic for acid reflux sufferers. A relaxed LES allows stomach acid and contents to flow back into the esophagus more easily, potentially intensifying reflux symptoms.
Dr. Jinal Patel, a dietitian at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Mumbai, explains: “Since peppermint ‘relaxes’ the intestines, taking it in larger doses might be harmful, especially for people with GERD. The lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, a muscle flap between the esophagus and stomach, can relax in response to high amounts of peppermint. Acid reflux is brought on by a loosened LES, which permits acid and other stomach substances to flow back up the esophagus and into the mouth.”
Scientific Evidence: Studies on Peppermint and Acid Reflux
While anecdotal evidence suggests peppermint may worsen acid reflux, scientific studies have produced mixed results. Some research indicates that peppermint may not significantly impact LES function or acid reflux in healthy individuals.
What does the research say about peppermint and acid reflux?
A clinical trial published in the journal Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics in 1999 investigated the effect of spearmint (a close relative of peppermint) on lower esophageal sphincter function and acid reflux in healthy volunteers. The study found no significant effect of spearmint on LES pressure or acid reflux episodes.
However, it’s important to note that this study was conducted on healthy individuals, not those with GERD or chronic acid reflux. The effects may differ in people with existing reflux issues.
Individual Variations: Why Peppermint Affects People Differently
The impact of peppermint on acid reflux can vary significantly from person to person. Several factors contribute to these individual differences:
- Severity of existing reflux issues
- Overall digestive health
- Form and quantity of peppermint consumed
- Timing of peppermint consumption in relation to meals
- Individual sensitivity to peppermint’s effects
Some people may find that peppermint triggers or worsens their reflux symptoms, while others may experience no adverse effects or even find relief.
Alternative Herbal Remedies for Acid Reflux Relief
If peppermint exacerbates your acid reflux symptoms, several other herbal remedies may provide relief:
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive tract
- Chamomile: May help reduce stomach acid and ease esophageal irritation
- Licorice root: Can increase mucus production, potentially protecting the esophagus from acid
- Marshmallow root: Forms a protective coating in the digestive tract
- Slippery elm: Creates a barrier against acid in the esophagus
Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying new herbal remedies, especially if you have chronic GERD or are taking medications.
Lifestyle Modifications to Manage Acid Reflux
In addition to avoiding trigger foods like peppermint, several lifestyle changes can help manage acid reflux symptoms:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating
- Elevate the head of your bed
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
These modifications, combined with appropriate medical treatment, can significantly improve quality of life for those suffering from acid reflux or GERD.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Acid Reflux
While occasional acid reflux is common, persistent symptoms may indicate a more serious condition. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Frequent or severe heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unintentional weight loss
- Chronic cough or wheezing
- Chest pain (especially if accompanied by shortness of breath or jaw or arm pain)
A medical professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or in some cases, surgical interventions.
In conclusion, while peppermint has many potential health benefits, its impact on acid reflux can vary significantly among individuals. Those with GERD or frequent acid reflux should approach peppermint with caution and consult their healthcare provider before using it as a remedy. By understanding the complex relationship between peppermint and acid reflux, individuals can make informed decisions about their dietary choices and explore alternative remedies that may provide relief without exacerbating symptoms.
Does peppermint worsen acid reflux?
GERD is when the stomach acid frequently flows back in to the food pipe connecting the mouth and stomach (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
GERD or Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease, a serious form of acid reflux, is a digestive disorder that leads to heartburn, regurgitation of food, wheezing, and even difficulty in swallowing. While it is often treatable with antacids, many people also swear by certain herbal remedies for relief. One such common solution is peppermint, which is known to be cooling and soothing for the body. However, should you really have peppermint in the case of acid reflux? According to nutritionist Pooja Palriwala, it might actually worsen the symptoms.
“You might think this refreshing herb would cool down heartburn and soothe reflux. Surprisingly, it does just the opposite. Mint relaxes the muscles in your esophagus, including the sphincter, so acid and other food remnants can flow back up to worsen reflux,” Palriwala wrote on Instagram.
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A post shared by Pooja Palriwala (@nutritionistpoojapalriwala)
Here’s what happens
GERD is when the stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe that connects the mouth and stomach. This causes symptoms like burning in the chest after a meal, bitter or sour taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, bad breath, nausea, and in some cases vomiting.
How does peppermint impact?
Since ancient times, peppermint has been used in traditional folk medicine to treat indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. This is as a result of peppermint’s soothing, calming, and relaxing effects, which aid in stomach relaxation, said Dr Jinal Patel, dietitian, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai. “It also has some antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help prevent stomach infections. However, it can be a challenging herbal remedy for people with acid reflux,” Dr Patel told indianexpress.com.
Peppermint may not really work for acid reflux; here’s why (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
“Since peppermint ‘relaxes’ the intestines, taking it in larger doses might be harmful, especially for people with GERD. The lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, a muscle flap between the esophagus and stomach, can relax in response to high amounts of peppermint. Acid reflux is brought on by a loosened LES, which permits acid and other stomach substances to flow back up the oesophagus and into the mouth. One of the main causes of persistent acid reflux in the majority of cases is this mechanical defect,” added Dr Patel.
So, consult an expert before you consume peppermint to get relief from acid relief next time.
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Lack of effect of spearmint on lower oesophageal sphincter function and acid reflux in healthy volunteers
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Clinical Trial
. 1999 Jun;13(6):805-12.
doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00528.x.
R Bulat
1
, E Fachnie, U Chauhan, Y Chen, G Tougas
Affiliations
Affiliation
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology and Digestive Diseases Research Program, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
PMID:
10383511
DOI:
10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00528.x
Free article
Clinical Trial
R Bulat et al.
Aliment Pharmacol Ther.
1999 Jun.
Free article
. 1999 Jun;13(6):805-12.
doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00528.x.
Authors
R Bulat
1
, E Fachnie, U Chauhan, Y Chen, G Tougas
Affiliation
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology and Digestive Diseases Research Program, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
PMID:
10383511
DOI:
10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00528.x
Abstract
Background:
Spearmint is commonly used as an antispasmodic and as a flavouring in several medications including antacids. It can produce heartburn, presumably by lowering lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) tone, but the mechanism has not previously been objectively examined.
Aim:
To study the effect of spearmint on LES function, acid reflux and symptoms.
Methods:
In healthy volunteers, a Dent Sleeve and a pH electrode were placed in the distal oesophagus. They were then given spearmint either in a flavouring (0.5 mg), or a high (500 mg) dose, or a placebo, using a double-blind randomized crossover design. LES pressure, oesophageal pH and symptoms were recorded for 30 min before and after administration.
Results:
LES pressure was not affected by spearmint, either high dose (19.6 vs. 16.0 mmHg), flavouring dose (20.2 vs. 19.8 mmHg) or placebo (20.5 vs. 19.2 mmHg, all N.S.). There were no differences in reflux occurrence following high dose (mean = 0. 65 vs. 0.85 episodes), low dose (0.4 vs. 0.5 episodes) or placebo (0.7 vs. 1.10 episodes, all N.S.). There was a significant increase in mean symptom scores following high-dose spearmint (0 vs. 0.35, P = 0.03), but not low dose (0 vs. 0.2) or placebo (0 vs. 0.5, both N.S.). One subject reported symptoms with placebo, one with low dose, and six with high dose; all without increased reflux episodes or decreased sphincter pressure.
Conclusion:
Spearmint has no effect on LES pressure or acid reflux. Flavouring doses of spearmint do not produce more symptoms than placebo while high doses can be associated with symptoms, presumably from direct mucosal irritation but not reflux.
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Lifestyle advice for gastroesophageal reflux
September 6, 2021
Repina Nadezhda Arkadievna
Gastroenterology
Have you been diagnosed with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux)?
Gastroesophageal reflux is manifested by a number of unpleasant symptoms that significantly reduce the quality of life. Heartburn, burning and pain behind the sternum, difficulty in swallowing food… However, timely diagnosis, treatment and lifestyle changes can neutralize these manifestations.
So, here are some recommendations for lifestyle modification in gastroesophageal reflux: reflux symptoms occur at night).
Dietary advice for gastroesophageal reflux
Certain types of foods can exacerbate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. To identify foods that aggravate symptoms (heartburn, belching), it is you who need to keep a food diary.
The most common triggers to avoid from the diet:
- Coffee and other caffeinated drinks (black tea, hot chocolate) – help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Citrus fruits (oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruits, tangerines, pomelo), as well as juices from them – contain a large amount of acids.
- Tomatoes and tomato-containing sauces, dishes (eg lecho) have a high level of acidity.
- Carbonated drinks (cola, kvass, lemonade, energy drinks, carbonated mineral water, etc.) create increased pressure in the stomach cavity, due to which reflux symptoms increase.
- Chocolate, due to the content of a caffeine-like substance – methylxanthine, helps to relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Peppermint, onion and garlic help relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
- When chewing gum, a large amount of air is swallowed, and the presence of sweeteners in its composition provokes belching and bloating.
- Slowdown of evacuation from the stomach is provoked by an abundance of fatty foods, which include 20% cream, butter, margarine, cakes with cream filling, fatty fish – herring, mackerel, trout; fatty meat: pork, beef
- Spicy (mustard, pickles, pickles, vinegar) and fried foods have a direct damaging effect on the mucosa of the esophagus.
Follow these rules and the unpleasant manifestations of the disease will recede. And if the correction of lifestyle and nutrition does not bring relief, this is a reason to turn to a gastroenterologist.
The memo was prepared by gastroenterologist Repina Nadezhda Arkadyevna.
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Symptoms and foods not to eat with reflux esophagitis
Contents
- 1 Reflux esophagitis: what diet can help reduce symptoms?
- 1. 1 Symptoms of reflux esophagitis
- 1.2 Symptoms of reflux esophagitis
- 1.3 Dysphagia and vomiting in reflux esophagitis
- 1.4 What can I eat with reflux esophagitis?
- 1.5 Low-fat foods
- 1.6 Low-acid vegetables and fruits
- 1.7 Dairy products and reflux esophagitis
- 1.8 What should you not eat for reflux esophagitis?
- 1.8.1 What should not be consumed in case of reflux esophagitis?
- 1.9 Fatty and fried foods
- 1.10 High acid foods
- 1.11 Spicy and specialty dishes
- 1.12 Alcoholic drinks for reflux esophagitis: what you need to know?
- 1.12.1 What is reflux esophagitis?
- 1.12.2 Alcohol and reflux esophagitis
- 1.12.3 Which types of alcoholic beverages should be avoided?
- 1.12.4 What drinks can be consumed?
- 1.12.5 Summary
- 1.13 Related videos:
- 1.14 Q&A:
- 1.14.0.1 What are the symptoms of reflux esophagitis?
- 1. 14.0.2 Can I eat spicy foods if I have reflux esophagitis?
- 1.14.0.3 What foods should be avoided in the diet for reflux esophagitis?
- 1.14.0.4 What foods can help with reflux esophagitis?
- 1.14.0.5 Which drinks should be avoided in case of reflux esophagitis?
- 1.14.0.6 Can reflux esophagitis cause serious complications?
Reflux esophagitis is a condition in which the acidic contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus, causing various symptoms such as heartburn, dysphagia, and chest pain. In the article you will learn about the causes of the disease, its manifestations and methods of treatment.
Reflux esophagitis is a disorder of the digestive system, which is manifested by inflammation of the esophagus. It occurs when the contents of the stomach travel up the esophagus back into the throat and cause irritation. This disorder can occur due to a number of factors, including problems with the respiratory system, diet and lifestyle.
Indicators of reflux esophagitis include burning, hissing in the throat, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. However, dietary changes can help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms. Certain foods, for example, can cause increased stomach acid, making reflux worse.
The article discusses foods, symptoms that are recommended not to eat, and what alternatives exist to maintain a healthy diet for reflux esophagitis.
Symptoms of reflux esophagitis
Reflux esophagitis is a disease in which the acidic secretion of the stomach flows back into the esophagus, resulting in inflammation of its walls. One of the main symptoms is heartburn, which can be described as a burning sensation and discomfort in the chest and throat.
Inflammation of the esophagus may cause difficulty in swallowing, sometimes resulting in asphyxia. The patient may also feel constant discomfort in the abdomen and throat, especially after eating, and cough frequently and briefly.
Most people with reflux esophagitis experience symptoms when they lie on their back, so it is recommended to sleep on your side or increase the pillow to keep your head upright when you sleep.
Symptoms of reflux esophagitis
Gnawing pain in the chest and abdomen is the main symptom of reflux esophagitis. It can be described as burning, numbing pain or pressure. Often, it appears after eating or when you go to bed.
Acidity in the mouth is the sensation of having an acid-based fluid in your mouth. This is due to the improper functioning of the lower esophagus, which causes the contents of the stomach to pour out into the mouth.
Difficulty swallowing food is another of the most common symptoms of reflux esophagitis. It causes discomfort while eating and a feeling as if the food is stuck in the throat. In other words, you don’t seem to be able to push food down your esophagus.
Other symptoms may include nausea , vomiting , food regurgitation , abdominal pain and heartburn . If you notice these symptoms, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Dysphagia and vomiting in reflux esophagitis
Dysphagia is the difficulty in swallowing that can occur with reflux esophagitis. This is due to the fact that acid, rising from the stomach into the esophagus, can cause irritation and inflammation of its walls, which leads to a decrease in its diameter. A feeling of compression, food stuck in the throat, intermittent temporary loss of voice, pain when swallowing – all of these symptoms may indicate this feeling of discomfort.
If you experience these symptoms with reflux esophagitis, you need to see a doctor. Only a specialist can diagnose and prescribe treatment. Self-medication can only aggravate the situation and lead to more serious health problems.
What can you eat with reflux esophagitis?
Reflux esophagitis is a disorder in which acidic fluid from the stomach rises up into the esophagus, irritating the lining of the esophagus. Diet is one of the most important aspects in the treatment of this disease. In this case, you need to eat varied, taking into account the specific disease and the individual characteristics of the body.
It is recommended to eat a lean diet rich in fiber and vitamins. Low-fat dairy products, eggs, fish, whole grain breads, vegetables, fruits, herbs, almonds, skinless chicken and turkey, brown rice, buckwheat are good for regular consumption.
In addition, you should pay attention to the little things that help not burden the stomach and esophagus: drink more water, reduce the size of portions, do not eat before bedtime, do not eat very sweet, fatty, spicy and sour foods such as: spices, onions, garlic, cheese, tomatoes, alcoholic drinks, coffee and carbonated drinks.
- Low-fat dairy products: milk, yoghurt, cottage cheese, cheese without fat.
- Vegetables and fruits: broccoli, potatoes, asparagus, green round beans, sweet peppers, cucumbers, pumpkin seeds, apples, bananas, mangoes, peaches, pears.
- Protein food: chicken breast, turkey, fish, eggs.
- Whole grain bread: rye, wheat, oatmeal.
- Herbs and spices: basil, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika.
Foods that can be eaten with reflux esophagitis enrich the body with vitamins and microelements without burdening the stomach and esophagus. Remember that it is not necessary to exclude all foods from your diet with this disease. It is important to eat foods that do not cause pain and discomfort during their use.
Low-fat foods
High-fat foods may cause worsening of reflux esophagitis. Therefore, it is important to include low-fat foods in the diet, which can alleviate the symptoms of the disease and reduce the risk of exacerbation.
Some low-fat foods:
- Skimmed dairy products: milk, yogurt, kefir;
- Meat: skinless chicken, veal, turkey;
- Fish: cod, trout, zander;
- Fruits: apples, bananas, mangoes;
- Vegetables: squash, zucchini, eggplant, broccoli, green beans;
- Cereals: white rice, oatmeal, couscous, wholemeal bread;
- Fats: avocado, olive oil, chia and flax seeds;
- Baked goods, snacks and other products: gluten-free products, light vegetable chips, seeds.
Remember that even low-fat foods can cause symptoms depending on the individual’s response. Therefore, it is important to monitor your well-being and exclude from the diet those foods that cause discomfort and deterioration.
Vegetables and fruits with a low acid content
Reflux esophagitis should not eat foods that can cause excessive production of gastric juice. Diet restriction is possible, but many low-acid vegetables and fruits can still be added to your diet.
Soft, low acid fruits such as bananas are still an excellent choice for people with reflux. Bananas contain potassium, vitamin C and B6, as well as fiber, which are good for health.
- Pumpkin
- Beans
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Cucumbers
- Sweet peppers
your daily diet. These vegetables are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, and their swelling properties may be helpful in controlling reflux.
Dairy products and reflux esophagitis
Dairy products have many beneficial properties for the body, but with reflux esophagitis, you need to be careful with their use. If you suffer from reflux, you may find that sour-milk products only exacerbate symptoms due to their high acid content, which causes heartburn and chest discomfort.
Some of the dairy products that should be avoided in the reflux diet include raw vegetables and acid-rich fruits such as tomatoes or citrus fruits. High-fat dairy products can also make the condition worse. In addition, it is important to avoid foods with spices and carbonated drinks, which only increase the production of stomach acid.
Ultimately, with reflux esophagitis, it is important to understand that dairy products can be a source of discomfort and pain. Reducing fat levels and using fermented foods is the best strategy for those suffering from this nasty condition.
What should not be consumed with reflux esophagitis?
Reflux esophagitis is a disease in which the acidic contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus, irritating the lining of the esophagus. Patients with this diagnosis should monitor their diet and exclude certain foods that can worsen their condition.
What should not be consumed with reflux esophagitis?
- Coffee and tea. These drinks contain caffeine, which stimulates the stomach, increases acid secretion and relaxes the gastroesophageal closure. This can lead to increased pressure in the esophagus and worsening symptoms of reflux esophagitis.
- Fatty and fried foods. It reduces the rate of gastric digestion, due to which it leads to an increase in certain factors contributing to the development of reflux esophagitis. Also, foods containing fat can help relax the esophagus sphincter, which prevents stomach contents from backflowing into the esophagus.
- Alcohol. Alcohol increases the amount of acid in the stomach, which can cause contents to back up into the esophagus and cause symptoms of reflux esophagitis.
- Chocolate and mints. Chocolate and mints contain menthol, which can relax the sphincter muscles and increase the risk of backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
If you have reflux esophagitis, it is important to follow dietary guidelines and avoid foods that can make your condition worse. Try to reduce your intake of caffeine, fatty and fried foods, alcohol, chocolate, and mints to help your digestive tract and reduce the risk of backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
Fatty and fried foods
Fatty and fried foods may be one of the causes of reflux esophagitis. This type of food increases the fat content in the stomach, which makes it difficult to digest and promotes the lowering of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus.
In addition, fried foods can be high in calories, additives, and preservatives, which can lead to poor health. Foods such as fast food, fried chicken, french fries, french fries, etc. must be avoided.
If you can’t stop eating fatty and fried foods, try reducing portion sizes and eating them in moderation. Also, you can use fatty meal replacements such as fresh vegetables, fruits, grain products, and whole grain breads.
- Avoid fried foods such as fast food, french fries, fried chicken, french fries, etc.
- Eat less fatty foods and in moderation.
- Use fatty meal replacements such as fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and whole grain breads.
Foods high in acid
Some foods can aggravate symptoms of reflux esophagitis due to their high acid content, which can stimulate gastric acid production. These products include:
- Citrus fruits – oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc.
- Tomatoes – fresh or canned
- Dairy products – yogurt, sour cream, cottage cheese, etc.
- Acidic drinks – orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, lemonade, soda water, etc.
- Grapes – fresh or in the form of raisins and grape juice.
- Coffee – regular coffee, cocoa and hot chocolate.
- Tea – black tea, green tea and mint tea.
With reflux esophagitis, it is important to avoid these foods or consume them with caution to avoid exacerbating symptoms. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and each person may have individual triggers for reflux esophagitis. If you notice that a particular food is making your condition worse, it’s best to cut it out of your diet.
Spicy and specialty foods
If you have reflux esophagitis, you should avoid eating spicy and specialty foods. They can make your condition worse, burn your esophagus, and put additional stress on your stomach and esophagus.
In addition, some herbs and spices, such as pepper, garlic, onion, and tomato paste, can cause acid reflux in your esophagus. Therefore, it is important to monitor the use of these ingredients in your dishes.
Instead, try using milder spices and herbs such as basil, oregano, or rosemary. They will add flavor to your meals without the risk of worsening your condition.
- Avoid hot sauces and spices such as curry and paprika.
- Avoid dishes prepared with garlic, onion and tomato paste.
- Try milder spices and herbs such as basil, oregano or rosemary.
Alcoholic drinks for reflux esophagitis: what is worth knowing?
What is reflux esophagitis?
Reflux esophagitis is a disorder in which irritation of stomach contents causes inflammation of the esophagus. Symptoms are heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and pain when swallowing.
Alcohol and reflux esophagitis
Alcoholic beverages may exacerbate symptoms of reflux esophagitis. They increase the acidity in the stomach and irritate the walls of the esophagus. This can lead to pain, heartburn, and discomfort.
Which types of alcoholic beverages should be avoided?
Most alcoholic beverages should be avoided with reflux esophagitis. However, strong alcoholic drinks such as vodka, tequila or cognac are especially dangerous. They are high in alcohol and can irritate the lining of the esophagus.
What drinks can be consumed?
While most alcoholic beverages should be avoided with reflux esophagitis, some can be consumed in moderation. For example, red wine, white wine or beer with a low alcohol content. However, you should consult your doctor before drinking alcohol.
Summary
Reflux esophagitis should avoid most alcoholic beverages, especially hard drinks. Some drinks, such as red wine or low-alcohol beer, can be consumed in moderation. But in any case, before drinking alcohol, you should consult your doctor.
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Q&A:
What are the symptoms of reflux esophagitis?
Among the main symptoms of reflux esophagitis are heartburn, a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the abdomen after eating, belching with bitterness in the mouth, pain in the chest, which can make itself felt both during and after eating. Swelling, nausea, and vomiting may also occur.
Can I eat spicy foods if I have reflux esophagitis?
You should avoid spicy foods for reflux esophagitis, as they can aggravate the symptoms or even make the condition worse. Instead, it is recommended to pay attention to milder spices and additives for cooking.
What foods should be excluded from the diet for reflux esophagitis?
When reflux esophagitis is not recommended to eat fatty and fried foods, spicy spices, sour fruits and berries, carbonated drinks, strong alcohol and coffee. You should also avoid eating before bed and limit the number of meals per day to 5-6 times.
What foods can help with reflux esophagitis?
Lean proteins (eg, chicken or turkey), low acid fruits and berries (eg, bananas, mangoes, apples, strawberries), vegetables (eg, broccoli, carrots, potatoes), cereals may be helpful for reflux esophagitis , low-fat dairy products. It is also important to eat small meals and not eat before bed.