As we get older, our stomach becomes more sensitive, making it possible for acid reflux.
The most common symptoms are heartburn and terrible taste in the mouth due to the liquid that comes from your stomach to your mouth which makes you feel like you are nauseous. You also feel like something is stuck in your stomach. You generate a lot of gas.
Although it is not deadly, acid reflux causes discomfort and can evolve to a chronic illness called Gastroesophageal reflux disease also known as GERD where you no longer eat spicy food (seasoned) and have to change your diet completely. Your sleep pattern can forever be altered. You might develop pain in your stomach. A sharp pain that becomes a nuisance the more you eat things that irritate the stomach. You might experience bleeding.
According to a study published in National Library of Medicine in 2025, there was a significant increase in GERD prevalence globally from 1990 to 2021. GERD case numbers substantially increased from 450.8 million in 1990 to 825.6 million in 2021. The most affected seemed to have been young adults 20-39, but also older groups.
This study highlights an important issue in the health system. It identifies GERD as public health problem. The study also recognizes how there needs to be more of a focus on people that have high risk of developing GERD, planning an early intervention, and provide better access to healthcare (also better healthcare). Maybe with some measures there would not have been an increase in cases.
I have not come across a program/ info session from healthcare professionals that inform people about acid reflux and GERD. Therefore, this needs to be taken more seriously.
I have unfortunately dealt with acid reflux. I am not sure how it started. It might have been due to stress and skipping meals (there might be a correlation) or not eating right. You can find different causes that might be behind the acid reflux through a combination of sources online.
It appeared that have not developed GERD. But, i could in the future. I can still eat some spicy foods and things that are not healthy, and not feel any discomfort.
Thankfully, acid reflux can pass once there is treatment involved. Steps can be taken to prevent it from becoming GERD.
Habits that might help:
Exercise : anything, but no excess
Having a schedule for meals
Reduce stress
Foods that you can eat during acid reflux :
Spices : Ginger, Thyme.
It is not recommended to have tumeric and cumin. But, I have tried some of both spices. My stomach did not react negatively.
Almonds are good for managing acid reflux.
Fish
Juices : Apple, Carrot
Fruits : Apples, Bananas, Peaches
Vegetables : cauliflower, brussel sprouts, leafy greens, spinach, lettuce. In some cases, broccoli, cucumber, and zucchini might irritate the stomach.
Fat free or less fat milk
Boiled egg white
You can check other sources for a more in depth list of things to do and not to do for acid reflux.
If you suspect you have GERD, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper testing and treatment. Wellbeing for you always recommends seeking professional medical advice for accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
According to Medlineplus, contact a health provider if you feel those symptoms :
Problems or pain with swallowing
Choking
A full feeling after eating a small meal portion
Weight loss that cannot be explained
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Chest pain
Bleeding, blood in your stools, or dark, tarry looking stools
Hoarseness
References
Courtesy of MedlinePlus from the National Library of Medicine
Xie F, Yang B, Yan Z, Shen Y, Qin H, Chen L, Chen T, Chen J, Zhu S, Xiong F, Sun X. Global temporal trends and projections of gastroesophageal reflux disease prevalence: Age-period-cohort analysis 2021. PLoS One. 2025 Nov 5;20(11):e0334396. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0334396. PMID: 41191658; PMCID: PMC12588508.
