Navigating Holiday Foods and GERD

Thanksgiving is a time for us to come together with those we love to share experiences, reminisce on memories and enjoy comfort foods. For those living with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), enjoying holiday foods can be stressful and challenging.

GERD, a chronic condition caused by stomach acid flowing into the esophagus, can result in frequent heartburn, vomiting and chest pain. These symptoms are often triggered by the foods and drinks consumed.

If you have GERD, you can limit your risk of symptoms by limiting your consumption of:

· Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages

· Chocolate

· Citrus-based and tomato-based foods and drinks

· Foods with garlic, mint or onion

· Spicy, high-fat or fried foods

If left untreated, GERD can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which can increase the risk for esophageal cancer.

BSA Amarillo Diagnostic Clinic’s Advanced Endoscopy and Gastroenterology Specialist, Haq Nawaz, MD, is the Texas Panhandle’s only physician to offer radiofrequency ablation for patients with Barrett’s esophagus. Radiofrequency ablation may help prevent precancerous cells from forming. During the procedure, the diseased lining of the esophagus is heated by an electrode, causing it to shed for a healthy lining to grow in its place.

A physician referral is required. For questions regarding this procedure, call 806-358-0200.