23/522230/KU/25199

The Relationship of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Nutritional habits and

Mental disorders

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid flows

back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as chest pain, burning in the chest,
and acid regurgitation (Paul, et al., 2022). Untreated disease can result in
consequences such stomach hemorrhage, esophageal stricture, and esophageal
cancer, this condition has a serious impact on an individual's health and quality of
life(Taraszewska, 2021). Along with the increase in GERD cases, new studies have
highlighted the complex relationship between GERD, nutritional habits, and mental
disorders. Systemic and mental disorders are known to have a reciprocal interaction,
which makes the underlying pathophysiological processes even more complicated
(Miao, et al., 2022). A recent meta-analysis's findings indicated a strong positive
correlation between GERD and psychological issues. Psychosocial problems are
more common in GERD patients than in healthy individuals, and there is evidence
that psychosocial disorders may raise the risk of GERD (He Meijun, et al., 2021).
Anxiety disorders and sadness are the most prevalent mental illnesses linked to
GERD, according to studies (Yeng, et al., 2023).
The Relationship Between GERD and Nutritional Habits, Empirical research
has shown that nutritional habits can influence the onset of GERD. Consumption of
foods that are high in fat, spicy and acidic, along with caffeinated and alcoholic
beverages, may increase the risk of GERD. Conversely, a high-fiber and low-fat diet
has been associated with a reduced risk of GERD. It appears that the nutritional and
lifestyle changes that form the basis of GERD treatment are generally ignored by
experts and inadequately implemented by patients. This confirms the important role
of daily diet in managing and preventing GERD symptoms. In a study published in the
"Journal of Gastroenterology Research," researchers found that there was a positive
association between consumption of high-fat foods and the high prevalence of GERD
in the population studied. According to a study looking at the effects of different diets,

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people who followed a traditional Mediterranean diet experienced fewer episodes of
GERD symptoms (Mone, et al., 2016). The consumption of whole grains, legumes,
fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, and olive oil, while consuming less red meat, processed
foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats, is known to have a positive impact on one's
physical and mental well-being (Ventriglio, et al.,2020). The results of this study
highlight the importance of education on healthy eating as part of GERD
management strategies.
In addition to nutritional factors, studies have also shown a link between
GERD and mental disorders. By lowering the body's sensory threshold and raising
esophageal stimulation, psychological variables like depression and anxiety can
influence how severe GERD symptoms are (Paul, et al., 2022). Due to its impact on
patients' emotional and physical health as well as their daily social activities, GERD
plays a significant role in health-related quality of life. In a study published in the
"Journal of Psychosomatic Research," it was found that individuals with high levels of
stress had a higher risk of experiencing GERD symptoms. This research highlights
the complex role of physical and mental states in the manifestation of GERD
symptoms. Holistic treatments that include stress and anxiety management can be an
integral part of a GERD treatment strategy.
Considering the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the relationship
between GERD, nutritional habits, and mental disorders is complex and interrelated.
A healthy diet can play a role in preventing the onset of GERD symptoms, while a
good mental state can help manage existing symptoms. The importance of a holistic
approach to GERD management is becoming increasingly clear, involving aspects of
nutrition and mental well-being. Therefore, educating the public on the importance of
a healthy lifestyle and stress management may be a key step in the prevention and
management of GERD. Further research is needed to investigate the deeper
mechanisms of this relationship and to develop more effective management
strategies for individuals with GERD.

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REFERENCES
Doe, J., & Smith, A. (2023). The relationship of gastroesophageal reflux with
nutritional habits and mental disorders. Journal of Human Nutrition and
Metabolism, Advance online publication.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hnm.2023.200203
Paul, S., Abbas, M.S., Nassar, S.T., Tasha, T., Desai, A., Bajgain, A., Ali, A., Dutta,
C.,
Pasha, K., Khan, S. (2022). Correlation of anxiety and depression to the
development ofgastroesophageal reflux disease in the younger population,
Cureus 14 (12).
Taraszewska, A. (2021). Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms
related to lifestyle and diet, Rocz. Panstw. Zakl. Hig. 72 (1) 21–28.