GERD stands for Gastroesophageal reflux disease. This is a long-term condition where acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. Unfortunately, many people suffer from GERD. GERD can happen on a consistent basis or can appear from time to time. However, in a weight-loss study performed, almost 2/3 of the patients reported GERD relief. Excess weight can cause individuals to have uncomfortable symptoms such as GERD, headaches, joint pain, and is the beginning factor to many underlying health conditions.
Researchers studied 179 patients during their weight-loss intervention. Those who were apart of the weight-loss intervention were placed on a modified diet that restricted them to 1,200-1,5000 calories per day. In addition to this the patients were instructed to exercise for 15-60 minutes for a total of 5 days a week, ensuring they expended 2,000 calories week.
In order to properly track progress and symptom relief, subjects completed a GERD questionnaire before they began and again six months into the program.
Before this study began, participants averaged a bodyweight of 222lbs with a body mass index of around 35. After six months of weight loss intervention, 98% of participants had reported an average weight loss of 28 lbs. In addition to this, GERD was reduced to 17%. However, one of the best results of the intervention was 66% of participants reported complete resolution of GERD symptoms.
The results showed that women had significant GERD reduction after losing 5% of body weight while males did not report symptom relief until around 10% of body weight was lost.
GERD is one of the most common symptoms we see our patients reporting. It is important to take into consideration all factors that contribute to GERD and determine the underlying condition. Focusing on an all-natural approach to repair the body shows great results and often time includes some amount of weight loss or inducing an exercise protocol. – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health CoachÂ
Reference
Singh M, et al “Weight loss can lead to complete resolution of GERD symptoms: A prospective study” DDW 2010; Abstract 937.
Fiore, Kristina. “DDW: Resolve GERD by Losing Weight.†Medpagetoday.org, 2010, www.medpagetoday.org/meetingcoverage/ddw/19994.