A Low-Carbohydrate/High-Fat Diet for GERD?

Obese women following an individualized diet had complete resolution of gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and discontinuation of GERD medications after 10 weeks.

Although dietary management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is not supported in current guidelines, some data suggest that consumption of a low-carbohydrate/high-fat diet can resolve or significantly reduce GERD symptoms.

To examine that hypothesis, researchers examined carbohydrate intake and insulin resistance in 144 obese women who underwent a 16-week low-carbohydrate/high-fat diet, including 42 women with GERD at baseline. Participants received instructions and a 14-day menu plan individualized to calculated resting energy expenditure. Carbohydrates (total and simple) were balanced by menu planning, as were fats (saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated), which were provided in preportioned containers at weekly clinic visits…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors