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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Frequent reflux of stomach contents into esophagus (heartburn). Certain supplements (peppermint, chocolate, caffeine, spicy, betaine HCl if hyperacidic) can worsen symptoms and are contraindicated/require caution.

What may help
10
What to avoid
44

What may help (10)

  • Naturopathy Practices HighClinical

    Naturopathic interventions for GERD focus on soothing the esophageal lining and strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter. DGL, aloe vera, slippery elm, and melatonin are commonly used, demonstrating high efficacy in reducing heartburn and acid reflux by supporting mucosal integrity and sphincter tone.

  • Coherent Breathing Practices MediumClinical

    Coherent breathing can support GERD management by strengthening the diaphragm and influencing the lower esophageal sphincter, while also reducing stress-induced reflux. This practice moderates sympathetic nervous system activity and visceral hypersensitivity, both of which can exacerbate reflux symptoms.

  • Eat Whole Foods Habits MediumClinical

    A whole-food diet can significantly reduce GERD symptoms by minimizing intake of common triggers like high-fat, processed, and excessively acidic foods. Emphasizing fiber-rich, nutrient-dense whole foods supports healthy digestion, promotes a balanced gut microbiome, and reduces the likelihood of acid reflux episodes.

  • Elimination Diet Practices MediumClinical

    For individuals experiencing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), an elimination diet helps identify and avoid foods that commonly trigger heartburn and acid regurgitation. By removing specific dietary irritants, this approach can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of uncomfortable reflux symptoms.

  • Portion Control Practices MediumClinical

    Managing meal sizes through portion control can significantly alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Smaller meals reduce stomach distension and pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, minimizing acid reflux into the esophagus and often complementing the benefits of weight loss.

  • Avoiding Heavy Meals Before Bed Practices Very highTheoretical

    This practice is critically important for managing GERD and heartburn. By preventing a full stomach from increasing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, it effectively reduces the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, especially when lying down.

  • Quitting: Eating Large Meals Late at Night Habits Very highTheoretical

    Consuming large meals late at night significantly increases the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. When lying down, the stomach's increased volume and pressure, combined with the lack of gravity, allow stomach acid to easily flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort.

  • Licorice Root Supplements HighTheoretical

    DGL licorice can help reduce symptoms of GERD and acid reflux by strengthening the esophageal and stomach lining, creating a protective barrier.

  • Quitting: Maintaining Poor Posture Habits LowPeople reports

    While not a primary cause, slouching and poor posture can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may exacerbate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by facilitating the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Maintaining an upright posture can help alleviate this pressure.

  • Integral Yoga Practices LowPeople reports

    Some individuals report minimal relief from GERD symptoms through Integral Yoga by reducing stress, which can worsen reflux. However, certain postures may exacerbate symptoms, requiring careful consideration and specific guidance.

What to avoid (44)

  • Betaine (TMG) Supplements HighClinical

    If you have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), consult your doctor before using Betaine HCl, as it may exacerbate symptoms if your reflux is not due to low stomach acid.

  • Binge Eating Episodes Habits HighClinical

    Rapid consumption of large food quantities during binge episodes can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including heartburn, bloating, and exacerbate or trigger gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Consult a doctor if you experience persistent digestive issues.

  • Guarana Supplements HighClinical

    Guarana may worsen heartburn and acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and increasing stomach acid production.

  • Pepsin Supplements HighClinical

    For those with GERD, especially avoid the Betaine HCl version. Adding stomach acid can significantly worsen reflux symptoms and irritate your esophagus.

  • Using Alcohol as a Sleep Aid Habits HighClinical

    Alcohol irritates the esophagus and relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, frequently leading to or worsening heartburn and acid reflux, especially when consumed before lying down for sleep.

  • Bhastrika Pranayama Practices MediumClinical

    Forceful breathing increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can worsen symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn. Use caution or avoid if you experience GERD.

  • Caffeine Consumption Late in the Day Habits MediumClinical

    Caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn or worsening symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Avoid late-day intake to prevent nighttime discomfort.

  • Energy Drink Consumption Habits MediumClinical

    Energy drinks can worsen symptoms of GERD, heartburn, and gastritis by increasing stomach acid production and relaxing the esophageal sphincter. Avoid if you have these conditions.

  • Evening Wind-Down Routine Habits MediumClinical

    If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), consuming food or drinks (especially acidic or large meals) close to bedtime can significantly worsen symptoms, as lying down soon after eating promotes acid reflux into the esophagus.

  • Excessive Caffeine Intake Habits MediumClinical

    Caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the likelihood of stomach acid reflux and worsening heartburn symptoms. If you have GERD, consider reducing your caffeine intake.

  • Horse Chestnut Extract Supplements MediumClinical

    Could worsen symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn; consult a doctor if you have GERD.

  • Integral Yoga Practices MediumClinical

    If you have GERD or severe heartburn, avoid inversions and deep forward folds immediately after eating, as these can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

  • Iyengar Yoga Practices MediumClinical

    If you have severe or active gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inversions in Iyengar Yoga can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Modify practice or avoid inversions as advised by your doctor.

  • L-Carnitine Supplements MediumClinical

    If you suffer from GERD, L-Carnitine might worsen heartburn or stomach upset. Talk to your doctor before taking it.

  • Nicotine Supplements MediumClinical

    Nicotine can relax the esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.

  • Theobromine Supplements MediumClinical

    This supplement may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening heartburn and acid reflux symptoms in people with GERD.

  • Vinyasa Yoga Practices MediumClinical

    If you have GERD, inversions or poses that compress the abdomen in Vinyasa Yoga can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Modify or avoid these poses and avoid eating a large meal before practice.

  • Yoga Nidra Practices MediumClinical

    Lying flat during Yoga Nidra may worsen acid reflux symptoms for individuals with GERD. Consider propping up your head and upper body.

  • Anusara Yoga Practices LowClinical

    Inversions and strong abdominal compression poses can worsen acid reflux symptoms in individuals with GERD. Practice with caution and modify poses as needed.

  • Calisthenics Practices LowClinical

    High-intensity calisthenics, especially core work or inverted positions, can increase intra-abdominal pressure and worsen severe gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) symptoms. Modify exercises as needed.

  • Maintaining Poor Posture Habits LowClinical

    Slouching or maintaining a stooped posture can increase pressure on your abdomen, potentially pushing stomach acid into the esophagus and worsening symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

  • Unrealistic Expectations of Self Habits LowClinical

    The heightened stress and anxiety associated with unrealistic expectations can significantly worsen symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or lead to increased stomach acid production and discomfort. Consider stress-reduction techniques and dietary adjustments to mitigate symptoms.

  • Amanita Muscaria Supplements MediumPeople reports

    The common side effects of nausea and vomiting from Amanita Muscaria can trigger or significantly worsen symptoms of acid reflux.

  • Amanita Pantherina Supplements MediumPeople reports

    The dried mushroom form may irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms like heartburn or acid reflux due to the presence of ibotenic acid.

  • Curcumin Supplements MediumPeople reports

    High doses of curcumin may sometimes cause digestive upset like heartburn or acid reflux, especially if you have sensitive digestion or existing GERD.

  • Garlic Supplements MediumPeople reports

    This form of garlic, rich in allicin, may irritate your stomach lining or worsen heartburn and acid reflux symptoms in some individuals.

  • Lavender Extract Supplements MediumPeople reports

    Avoid oral intake of lavender essential oil if you have GERD or heartburn, as its concentrated form can irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms.

  • Mindless Snacking Habits MediumPeople reports

    Frequent snacking, especially on fatty, acidic, or sugary foods, can trigger or worsen heartburn and GERD by increasing stomach acid and pressure. Avoid this habit if you experience acid reflux.

  • Phenibut Supplements MediumPeople reports

    If you have GERD, the acidic nature of Phenibut HCl may aggravate your symptoms like heartburn.

  • Schisandra Supplements MediumPeople reports

    Schisandra may worsen symptoms of heartburn or acid reflux due to its stimulating effect on stomach acid. Use with caution if you have GERD.

  • Singing / Choir Practices MediumPeople reports

    Increased abdominal pressure during breath support in singing can worsen symptoms of acid reflux and may irritate vocal cords, impacting vocal quality and comfort.

  • Caffeine Supplements HighTheoretical

    Caffeine can relax the valve between your esophagus and stomach, potentially worsening heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.

  • Catastrophizing (Assuming the Worst) Habits HighTheoretical

    The chronic anxiety associated with catastrophizing can exacerbate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and lead to increased stomach acid (hyperacidity), causing more frequent heartburn and discomfort.

  • Eating Large Meals Late at Night Habits HighTheoretical

    Eating large meals late at night can significantly worsen acid reflux (GERD) and heartburn, especially if you lie down soon after, due to increased stomach acid production and compromised esophageal sphincter function.

  • Bacopa Monnieri Supplements LowPeople reports

    Some individuals may experience heartburn or increased acid reflux with Bacopa Monnieri, which could aggravate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

  • Butyrate Supplements LowPeople reports

    If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or frequent heartburn, butyrate might occasionally worsen your symptoms, especially if its protective coating breaks down too early.

  • Chondroitin Sulfate Supplements LowPeople reports

    Oral chondroitin sulfate may potentially worsen symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn in sensitive individuals.

  • Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements LowPeople reports

    As an oily supplement, CLA might worsen symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn in sensitive individuals.

  • Trypsin Supplements LowPeople reports

    Oral trypsin might worsen heartburn or reflux symptoms in some individuals. Use with caution if you have GERD.

  • Yoga Practice Habits LowPeople reports

    If you have severe GERD, inversions, deep forward folds, or abdominal compressions can worsen reflux symptoms by putting pressure on the stomach. Avoid eating before practice and modify poses to reduce discomfort.

  • Yohimbine Supplements LowPeople reports

    Some individuals report increased heartburn or stomach upset with yohimbine, so it should be used cautiously if you have GERD.

  • Eating Too Quickly Habits MediumTheoretical

    Eating too quickly can overwhelm the stomach's capacity and increase pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially triggering or worsening acid reflux and heartburn. Pacing yourself helps prevent reflux symptoms.

  • Kapalabhati Pranayama Practices MediumTheoretical

    Increased intra-abdominal pressure during Kapalabhati can worsen acid reflux, leading to heartburn and discomfort. Avoid if you frequently experience GERD symptoms.

  • Tantra Yoga Practices LowTheoretical

    Inversions and deep abdominal work can worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms by promoting acid backflow. Modify practices or avoid positions that cause discomfort.

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