Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a widespread issue, evidenced by the extensive availability of both over-the-counter and prescription treatments. However, this condition can escalate to oesophageal cancer, with Cancer Research UK reporting a daily diagnosis rate of 24 people. Another concern for individuals with persistent gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is the development of silent reflux, also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux disease. This arises from the continuous reflux of stomach acid, which damages the larynx and surrounding tissues, leading to symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, postnasal drip, sore throat, and a sensation of a lump in the throat.
The book, "The Acid Watcher Diet: A 28-Day Reflux Prevention and Healing Programme," by Jonathan Aviv, proposes a dietary approach to prevent gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and silent reflux.
Core Concept: Dietary Changes for Reflux Prevention
Aviv suggests that the increased consumption of processed foods, which are often high in acidic compounds, exacerbates reflux issues. Conversely, he highlights the benefits of fiber, noting its association with various health advantages and its potential to reduce the risk of oesophageal cancer. The author refutes the notion of alkaline diets as a solution, dismissing it as a myth.
The Acid Watcher Diet Phases
The book outlines two primary phases: ‘healing’ and ‘maintenance.’ These phases detail specific foods and activities to avoid, including smoking, carbonated sodas, tea, coffee, citrus fruits, and alcohol. The final chapters include recipes suitable for both the healing and maintenance phases. Like many diets, exercise is emphasized as a helpful component in managing symptoms.
Does the Acid Watcher Diet Work?
Aviv supports his diet plan with case studies and claims of success with numerous patients. However, a review on lifestyle factors and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease indicates that only smoking cessation and weight loss have a significant impact on symptoms. While dietary changes might not be a universal cure, many patients experiment to identify and avoid foods that trigger their symptoms.
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Personal Anecdote
One individual's experience reflects a nuanced perspective: "I tried Jonathan Aviv's version of the whole food, low acid diet. While I stayed on it I felt much better, both in reflux symptoms and other discomforts. I do the diet half-heartedly, which isn't recommended, but I still feel better than I did when not doing it at all. I will eat processed food and high acid food now; I think eating that stuff in lower amounts and the healing that occurred while I stuck to the diet has allowed me to skate along. Admittedly I would be much better off if I stuck with the diet completely." This suggests that even partial adherence to the diet can yield noticeable improvements.
Relevance for Pharmacists
The book serves as a valuable resource for pharmacists by providing a list of common foods and drinks, such as spicy foods, alcohol, tea, and coffee, that can worsen reflux symptoms. This information can be shared with patients who are uncertain about dietary triggers. The book also raises awareness of silent reflux, offering a potential explanation for patients presenting with related symptoms.
Conclusion
"The Acid Watcher Diet" provides insights into how dietary choices can influence reflux disease. While the book offers a structured approach to managing reflux through diet, it's important to consider that individual results may vary. The book also provides readers food for thought on how consumption of certain foods may improve or worsen reflux disease. For pharmacists, the book offers a useful reference for discussing potential dietary culprits with patients experiencing reflux symptoms.
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