If a person experiences weight loss with frequent symptoms of acid reflux, they may be experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They should speak with a healthcare professional about their symptoms and treatment options.
Keep reading to learn how GERD may lead to weight loss, when to contact a doctor, and how an individual with the condition can regain the weight they have lost.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GEF) is another name for acid reflux. It involves the contents of a person’s stomach backing up into the food pipe, also known as the esophagus.
When GEF frequently occurs, it is called GERD, a condition that affects about
Without treatment, GERD can have serious effects. One possible complication is Barrett’s esophagus, in which tissue similar to the intestinal lining replaces the esophageal lining. About 0.5-1% of people with Barrett’s esophagus develop esophageal cancer per year.
A person with GERD may experience nausea, difficulty, or pain when they swallow. Over time, the condition may lead to a loss of appetite and persistent vomiting, indicating
Although individuals with this condition may not be trying to lose weight, they may end up consuming less food due to symptoms that affect their eating and digestion. This is why unexplained weight loss is a possible complication of the condition.
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Having excess weight is a risk factor for GERD. However, untreated GERD can sometimes make eating uncomfortable because of symptoms such as pain, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing, which may lead to unintentional weight loss and, in some cases, nutritional deficiencies.
Overweight
Having obesity or overweight can play a role in the development of GERD.
Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, is an important risk factor for GERD. Belly fat increases pressure inside the abdomen, making it easier for stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.
It also releases inflammatory substances that may contribute to esophageal damage and the development of GERD complications.
In addition, people with overweight or obesity are more likely to have other factors that increase the risk of GERD, including:
- a higher prevalence of esophageal motility disorders
- increased stomach capacity
- dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscular ring that normally prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus
Because excess weight is a risk factor for GERD, losing weight may help reduce symptoms.
Underweight
Chronic or severe GERD may contribute to unintentional weight loss if symptoms such as heartburn, pain with swallowing, or difficulty swallowing make eating uncomfortable or reduce appetite.
While having excess weight increases the risk of GERD, being underweight can also affect overall health. Research suggests that having insufficient weight is associated with an increased risk of illness and premature death, particularly in older adults.
If GERD has led to unintentional weight loss, treating the underlying condition and working with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to restore adequate nutrition may help improve overall health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers a body mass index (BMI) of
The
Symptoms of GERD include:
- heartburn, a burning sensation in the middle of the chest
- regurgitating food from the stomach into the esophagus, which may cause a person to taste food or stomach acid
- problems swallowing
- chest pain
- nausea
Individuals should also speak with their doctor if they experience symptoms of GERD complications or other serious health conditions. These include:
- chest pain
- persistent vomiting
- loss of appetite
- difficulty or pain when swallowing
- signs of bleeding in the intestinal tract, such as black, tarry stools, or vomit that appears similar to coffee grounds
If GERD has caused unintentional weight loss, the goal is to increase your calorie intake while minimizing foods and eating habits that worsen reflux.
A healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help you create a plan that meets your nutritional needs.
Strategies that may help include:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals and snacks throughout the day instead of large meals.
- Eat your largest meal earlier in the day rather than close to bedtime.
- Prioritize nutrient-dense foods that you tolerate well, such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy oils.
- Add calorie-rich ingredients to meals when they don’t trigger symptoms, such as olive oil, avocado, nut butters, nuts, seeds, or hummus.
- Drink nutrient-rich beverages, such as smoothies or oral nutrition supplements, between meals rather than with meals if liquids make you feel too full.
- Include nourishing carbohydrate sources, such as brown rice, oats, potatoes, and fruit, to help increase your calorie intake.
- Limit foods and beverages that worsen your GERD symptoms, such as high fat or fried foods, spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks, if they are personal triggers.
- Avoid lying down for at least 2 to 3 hours after eating.
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after eating.
If lifestyle changes do not improve GERD symptoms, talk with a healthcare professional about additional treatment options.
They may also refer you to a registered dietitian, who can develop an individualized eating plan to support healthy weight gain while helping manage GERD symptoms.
While having overweight or obesity increases the risk of developing GERD, chronic or severe GERD can sometimes lead to unintentional weight loss if symptoms make eating uncomfortable or reduce appetite.
Because unexplained weight loss may be a sign of poorly controlled GERD or another underlying condition, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional.
Treating GERD and addressing any nutritional deficiencies can help improve symptoms, support a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of complications.