Risk factors for reflux esophagitis and countermeasures-Diet

Reflux esophagitis is increasing in Japan in association with cultural and societal changes to a more Western lifestyle. The major cause is reflux of gastric contents, consisting mainly of gastric acid, into the esophagus. For prevention, it is necessary to give attention to the contents of meals, as well as food form and eating habits. More specifically, it is important to improve lifestyle habits related to diet, such as refraining from ingesting foods that stimu- late gastric acid secretion or promote relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, which delays gastric emptying. Furthermore, consuming large meals quickly, lying down immediately after eating, and eating solids, each of which delays gastric emptying, should be avoided, as well as acidic foods and hot meals.