GERD( Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
It is a disease that builds acid and irritates the inner lining of the stomach. I was diagnosed a year ago with this disease when I had to see a gastrologist specialist. You may also have it diagnosed by your main doctor and there is no test for diagnosing unless you mention all the symptoms to your doctor.
Symptoms may be belching, nausea, regulation, bitter taste, discomfort in the upper abdomen, or dry cough. You may also have major burning in your chest which is the acid going up from your stomach. I had to take a huge step in changing my diet to control the major acid reflux or heartburn that I have.
About 20% of people in the United States struggle with GERD, and the number keeps growing because of the way the US manufacturers process their foods. North America and Scandinavian countries are the ones with high concentrations of people getting GERD. You may get GERD by smoking, being stressed, overeating, and wearing clothes plus belts that are too tight. With that said, food is also one of the main culprits especially in the US. Chemicals that are illegal in other countries (for example Italy, France and Spain) are common in US food production.
When I learned that I had GERD my doctor recommended I have a lifestyle change in the way I eat, and I could take a pill that that eases digestion. However, I decided to go on a more natural way by eating gluten-free ( I am gluten intolerant) and by eating smaller amounts. I am also avoiding some food entirely, especially:
Foods to Avoid
· • Fried foods
· • Citrus fruits (the acidity of the citrus fruits can increase symptoms)
· • Spicy foods
· • Mint
· • Chocolate
With this information, you could also have small amounts of it (of GERD?). I have slowly tried to add some of the foods that my dietitian recommended me to do. With this information you could also seek a provider (doctor) or gastrologist to help you control the symptoms that causes pain.
