These studies discuss the connection between increasing body mass index (BMI) and the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms. One study in particular found that when there was an accumulation of abdominal fat, as measured by the waist-to-hip ratio, may be the most important risk factor for reflux symptoms. This study also mentioned this accumulation of abdominal fat may increase the risk of developing severe GERD-related complications, such as Barrett's esophagus, erosive esophagitis, and esophageal cancer.
Other data examined by the authors of this article was whether weight loss, whether by diet modifications or surgical methods, had any effect on acid reflux symptoms. The studies examined showed acid reflux symptoms often decreased as excess weight was lost.
What has been your experience? Have you been overweight, suffered more GERD symptoms, but when you began to lose weight, your symptoms lessened in severity? If you are overweight now, has your doctor told you your symptoms would improve if you lost weight? Click on the Comments link below and share your thoughts.
Full text of the GERD and obesity article is available on the American College of Gastroenterology's web site.
For help with weight loss, you can information on diets, fitness, nutrition, and more from Jennifer Scott, About's Guide to Weight Loss.
I have been suffering with acid reflus for a month now. I have started lossing weight by attending Weight Watchers and, although slow, I am having positive results. What is strange to me is that a number of years ago, I lost 50 lbs in about a year throug WW. I stopped attending after I developed gall stones and had to have my gaul bladder removed. That is when I put the wight back on. After the surgery I developed IBS.
Now I seem to be back in the cycle again. I am trying to loose weight, but I have acid reflux. It is most painful when I engage in activity…almost any activity, including simple walking around the house. I’m trying to determine if there is a relationship between my weight loss attempts and my gastro problems?
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