A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine evaluated the joint association of dietary and lifestyle factors with the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms.

In this an ongoing nationwide prospective cohort study, wherein data from biennial health questionnaires and a validated, semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire every 4 years—by 116 671 female participants—is included. Questions include enquiry about the occurrence of acid reflux or heartburn. 

The probable causes of acid reflux or heartburn could be reduction in lower esophageal sphincter tone; increases in gastroesophageal pressure gradients; and mechanical factors – such as hiatal hernia. The results supported the significance of lifestyle modification in managing GERD.

Here, researchers used an anti-reflux lifestyle score (range 0-5) consisting of five variables– normal weight, defined as BMI of 18.5 to less than 25.0; never smoking; moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 30 minutes in a day; not more than two cups of coffee, tea, or soda per day; and eating a prudent diet. In comparison with women who did not adhere to anti-reflux lifestyle factors, the multivariable hazard ratio (HR) for GERD symptoms was 0.50 among those with five anti-reflux lifestyle factors. Additionally, each lifestyle factor was independently associated with GERD symptoms.

From the results, it was inferred that the diet associated with less reflux symptoms is the one which is generally considered as a healthy diet—low in concentrated sweets, red meat and refined grains—and should be followed for its other potential health benefits.

Sources: Medpage Today. January 4, 2021.

JAMA Internal Medicine. January 04, 2021.doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2020.7238