[Recommended] Weakened Lower Esophageal Sphincter
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease that occurs with frequent acid reflux or stomach acid flowing into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter. Symptoms of GERD can include heartburn caused by eating, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of a sour liquid or food, the sensation of a lump in the throat, chronic cough, sleeping difficulties, and laryngitis. (Mayo Clinic, 2018).
The dietary suggestions I would provide for Mrs. G are to avoid or enjoy in moderation fried foods, fatty meats, spicy foods, tomato-based sauces, fruits with citrus, and carbonated beverages. These foods should also be avoided closer to bedtime if GERD symptoms are worse during the nighttime. Foods I would recommend for Mrs. G include foods high in fiber such as oatmeal and brown rice. Root vegetables and leafy greens such as sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, asparagus, broccoli, and green beans are also recommended. Alkaline foods with a higher pH can also be beneficial to those who have GERD such as bananas, melons, fennel, cauliflower, and nuts. Foods that contain a lot of water can help with symptoms such as celery, cucumber, broth-based soups, watermelon, and lettuce. (Gupta, n.d.).
Changes Mrs. G should make are avoiding the types of foods listed above or eating them in moderation and avoiding eating close to bedtime. I would recommend she includes foods that can help alleviate symptoms of GERD that I have listed above. Mrs. G should also take her prescribed medication and follow up with the doctor if symptoms are still unmanageable after medication and diet changes. Barriers she will face are wanting foods that align with her culture that may worsen her GERD symptoms I would recommend eating them in moderation and less frequently.