Acid reflux when the contents of your stomach persistently move back up into your oesophagus. These contents sometimes contain excessive acid and may cause irritation and pain.
Many people may experience acid reflux, indigestion, or heartburn from time to time. However, if you experience acid reflux symptoms more than twice per week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or irritation from using a GLP-1 RA medication, such as semaglutide or liraglutide. Whilst acid reflux can be a common symptom of using Saxenda, Ozempic, Wegovy & Rybelsus, it can be exacerbated by certain foods, drinks and physical habits.
The main symptoms of acid reflux are:
heartburn – a burning sensation in the middle of your chest
an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth, caused by stomach acid
You may also have:
a cough or hiccups that keep coming back
a hoarse voice
bad breath
bloating and feeling sick
Symptoms are often worse after eating, when lying down and when bending over. Lots of people get heartburn from time to time. There's often no obvious reason why.
Sometimes it's caused or made worse by:
certain food and drink – such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods
being overweight
smoking
pregnancy - find out more about indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy
stress and anxiety
an increase in some types of hormones, such as progesterone and oestrogen
some medicines, such as anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen)
a hiatus hernia – when part of your stomach moves up into your chest
a stomach ulcer
a bacterial infection in your stomach
If you are experiencing acid reflux while taking semaglutide or any medication, there are certain dietary choices that may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Keep in mind that triggers can vary from person to person, so it's crucial to pay attention to how your body responds to different foods. Here are some general guidelines:
Lean Proteins:
Choose lean sources of protein such as skinless poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes. Avoid high-fat meats, as they can contribute to acid reflux.
Low-Fat Dairy:
Opt for low-fat or fat-free dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese. Full-fat dairy can potentially trigger reflux in some individuals.
Whole Grains:
Include whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal in your diet. Avoid or limit refined grains and products made with white flour.
Fruits and Vegetables:
Most fruits and vegetables are well-tolerated, but some people may find relief by avoiding acidic varieties like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Non-citrus fruits and non-tomato vegetables are generally safe.
Healthy Fats:
Choose sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Limit or avoid high-fat and fried foods.
Herbs and Spices:
Use herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano for flavoring instead of strong spices like black pepper and chili powder, which may exacerbate acid reflux.
Low-Acidity Beverages:
Drink plenty of water and opt for low-acidity beverages like herbal tea. Avoid citrus juices and carbonated drinks, as they can contribute to reflux.
Small, Frequent Meals:
Instead of large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to prevent overloading your digestive system.
Avoid Trigger Foods:
Identify and avoid foods that trigger your acid reflux symptoms. Common triggers include chocolate, caffeine, mint, spicy foods, and carbonated beverages.
It's crucial to maintain good eating habits, such as not lying down immediately after eating and avoiding large meals close to bedtime. Keep a food diary to track your symptoms and we can see what may be causing the symptoms.
On top of dietary habits, there are several lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies you can try to alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Here are some common remedies for acid reflux:
Lifestyle Modifications:
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can contribute to acid reflux. Losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise may help reduce symptoms.
Elevate the head of your bed: Using bed risers or placing blocks under the head of your bed can help keep stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus at night.
Over-the-Counter Medications:
Antacids: These can provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid. They are available in various forms, including chewable tablets and liquid.
H2 blockers (Histamine-2 Receptor Blockers): Examples include ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid). These medications reduce the production of stomach acid and can be taken before meals or at bedtime.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Examples include omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), and lansoprazole (Prevacid). PPIs reduce stomach acid production more effectively than H2 blockers and are usually taken once a day.
Behavioral Changes:
Avoid lying down or going to bed immediately after eating.
Stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after meals.
Quit smoking if you are a smoker, as smoking can contribute to acid reflux.
Herbal Remedies:
Some people find relief from herbal remedies such as ginger tea, chamomile tea, or licorice root. However, the effectiveness of these remedies can vary, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before trying them.
Stress Management:
Stress can contribute to acid reflux symptoms. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
It's crucial to note that persistent or severe acid reflux symptoms even after stopping the medication (or if a previous issue before starting the medication) should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as your GP. If over-the-counter remedies do not provide relief or if you experience frequent or severe symptoms, we may recommend prescription medications or liaising with your GP for further diagnostic tests.