The Role of Diet and Lifestyle Modifications in the Management of Esophageal Reflux Disease in local population

Abstract

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very common medical complication connected with regurgitation of the gastric contents into the esophagus which caused heartburn and esophageal irritation. Objectives: The objective of this research was to assess practicality of diet and lifestyle changes in the management of GERD in local population. Pharmacotherapy remains the mainstay of management of GERD; however, diet and lifestyle changes have emerged as popular non-pharmacological interventions.  Methodology: An observational study was conducted on 200 patients with GERD. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A received standard pharmacological treatment, while Group B received a structured diet and lifestyle modification program in addition to pharmacological management. Lifestyle changes included avoiding heartburn-triggering foods such as spicy meals, caffeine, and fatty foods, along with weight reduction, smoking cessation, and increased sleeping height. The effectiveness of the treatments was assessed based on symptom severity, endoscopic findings, and inflammatory biomarkers over 12 months. SPSS version 26.0 was used for statistical analysis, employing paired and independent t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical data. Results were considered significant at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Group B showed a significant reduction in symptom severity (35%) compared to Group A (20%) (p < 0.001). Endoscopy revealed better healing in Group B (70% vs. 50%, p = 0.02). Weight loss and smoking cessation positively influenced outcomes. Conclusion: Diet and lifestyle modifications, combined with medical management, positively impact GERD outcomes in the local population.