For those acid reflux patients with less pronounced problems, recent studies point out that they can make major positive changes to their condition by relatively easy diet changes. But is there really a GERD food plan that makes it possible for acid reflux victims to get rid of those terrible symptoms? Altering diet plans to cure acid reflux is given strong approval by classical and alternative medical sources.

The connection between eating and GERD treatment can be shown from the gastric/digestive pathophysiology of this medical ailment. In general, GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease) also called acid reflux, is a functional problem of the digestive system. Gastro esophageal reflux disease happens when the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) - a muscle acting as a valve to shut off the esophagus from the stomach - does not close correctly and acid content flows back from the stomach, or “refluxes”, into the esophagus.

For these reasons, gastro esophageal reflux disease must be handled in a fully comprehensive and timely fashion. Acid reflux symptoms can differ from one person to another. Heartburn is what concerns most patients - the burning feeling in the chest and/or throat that occurs when refluxed stomach acid meets the esophageal lining. Patients speak of other symptoms as well, including glutition problems, chest pain, hoarseness, a feeling of an object lodged in the throat and dry coughing. Without treatment, acid reflux can engender significant medical complications, such as ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus and for some, cancer.

Reducing weight and changing diet are both strongly advised for GERD patients as the initial step for dealing with this problem (and as part of a full holistic agenda).

One of the main principles of a diet plan against GERD is to avoid foods that make the LES muscle weak. There is a range of naturally occurring substances that interfere with the proper operation of the LES, such as dopamine, prostaglandins and acetylcholine. Foods that contain those substances or that encourage their presence in the human body (high fat foods, mint, chocolate) should therefore be eliminated from a diet for acid reflux. Nicotine, caffeine and alcohol also interfere in the same way by reducing pressure on the LES and so their intake should also be reduced.

A further important point concerning dietary habits to manage acid reflux is not to eat the last meal of the day less than three hours before going to bed, as food and dairy products in particular is a major factor in the production of stomach acid. Other changes include raising the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches to prevent acid from reaching the esophagus.

Meals containing a lot of spice tend to irritate the mucosa in the esophagus. A lot of acid reflux victims say that their symptoms often degrade when they consume spicy foods or coffee too regularly.

Although a diet oriented towards GERD can give immediate alleviation, it should be remembered that a change in dietary patterns is not a solution in itself, especially in advanced cases of acid reflux. It is just a first, important step in a fully all-natural holistic program.

The holistic program (specific herbs and vitamin supplements with a complete program of diet guidelines, elimination of toxins and using Candida control principles) can resolve GERD naturally and stop it from coming back, permanently and effectively. Had you heard that your painful and distressing symptoms of gastro esophageal reflux disease can now be alleviated forever without any conventional or “over the counter” medication being necessary?