If obesity and a high BMI contribute to the symptoms of GERD, then weight loss is the cure.
Heartburn, chest pain, an acid taste in your mouth and a persistent couch may be signs of GERD. Studies now show that it's no surprise that these symptoms are linked with obesity because BMI levels have a direct relation to the possibility of experiencing GERD.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Gastrontology shows that GERD is closely related to having a high BMI. Being overweight and having a high BMI are risk factors for experiencing GERD. Even the smallest amount of weigh gain can trigger the symptoms of GERD. In fact, the study shows that having a BMI of 30 or higher increases the likelihood of experiencing pain from GERD.
What is GERD?
GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder, is a fairly common health problem that occurs when the valve that keeps food and stomach acid down stops doing its job. When the lid doesn't stay on right, the food and stomach acids are forced back up and reach the esophagus.
An occasional bout of heartburn and discomfort aren't a real cause for concern, but if your symptoms become stronger and become more frequent, you can do some irreversible damage to your esophagus.
What are the Symptoms of GERD?
The most common and most easily identified symptom of GERD is heartburn. Sometimes a simple over the counter antacid is enough to neutralize the stomach acid and relieve your discomfort. Other times, it is best to talk to your doctor about your symptoms.
Other symptoms of GERD are a persistent cough, severe chest pain, abs and chest pain and the taste of acid in your mouth. Aside from these symptoms and heartburn, the other reliable indicator of GERD is weight, particularly having a high BMI.
Obesity and GERD
Gaining even the smallest amount of weight puts added pressure on your organs. When you gain weight, the extra pounds put pressure on your stomach, forcing the food to go back up. The extra fat in your neck and chest post another problem. It's the same reason obese people are more likely to experience sleep apnea. The throat and esophagus are restricted because of the extra fat in the body.
The fact that BMI and GERD are linked actually makes the cure for GERD completely attainable. Lose weight and you will be able to effectively reduce the stress on your organs, reduce the fat that surrounds your esophagus and reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with GERD. If weight gain and a high BMI are the culprit for this reflux disorder, then weight loss and lowering your BMI are the answers for curing it.
