Individuals who follow an intermittent fasting diet pattern alternate between eating and fasting intervals. Numerous health advantages of this eating pattern have been demonstrated, including reduced inflammation, increased insulin sensitivity, and weight loss. However, some people who engage in intermittent fasting may have acid reflux, often known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
When stomach acid runs back into the esophagus, it causes acid reflux, which results in a burning sensation in the chest and neck. A hiatal hernia and a dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES) are two potential causes of this. Heartburn, regurgitation, and swallowing difficulties are just a few symptoms that people with acid reflux may face.
Due to the variations in meal frequency and volume, intermittent fasting may make some people’s acid reflux symptoms worse. A person’s stomach may become empty after going for a long time without food, which may lead to stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. Additionally, when someone does eat, they could be more likely to eat larger portions, which might result in an overproduction of stomach acid.
It is crucial to remember that not everyone who practices intermittent fasting will develop acid reflux. Some people might discover that it actually makes their symptoms better. According to research, intermittent fasting may aid to enhance LES function and lessen esophageal inflammation.
It’s also important to note that starting intermittent fasting without first speaking to your doctor or a dietician is not advised if you already experience acid reflux. They can give you guidance on how to change your fasting schedule to lessen your symptoms and assist you in determining whether intermittent fasting is safe for you.
Finally, even though intermittent fasting has many health advantages, it can make some people’s acid reflux worse. Before beginning an intermittent fasting regimen, people with acid reflux should speak with their doctor or a dietitian to be sure it’s safe for them. To reduce any bad effects on your acid reflux, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your symptoms and modify your intermittent fasting schedule as needed.
References:
- Hoddy, K. K., & Kroeger, C. M. (2019). Intermittent fasting and human metabolic health. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 119(8), 1229-1243.
- Al-Khafaji, A. M., & O’Keefe, S. J. (2018). Intermittent fasting in the management of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Journal of functional gastrointestinal disorders, 2(3), 85-95.
- Varady, K. A., Bhutani, S., Church, E. C., & Klempel, M. C. (2013). Short-term modified alternate-day fasting: a novel dietary strategy for weight loss and cardioprotection in obese adults. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 98(4), 801-810.
- Raza, S., & Zaidi, M. (2020). Intermittent fasting and its association with acid reflux disease: a systematic review. Journal of human nutrition and dietetics: the official journal of the British Dietetic Association, 33(4), 468-475.
- Orr, W. C., & Sostek, M. B. (1992). Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernia. The American Journal of Medicine, 92(6), 6S-13S.
