Does nutrition counselling treat acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents move back into the food pipe, causing symptoms such as heartburn, a sour taste or regurgitation. A dietitian can help you identify personal triggers and review meal size, eating speed, late meals, drinks and weight-related factors without imposing unnecessary restrictions. Triggers vary, and a food that bothers one person may be tolerated by another.

Write down symptoms alongside meals and drinks so patterns are easier to discuss. Your plan may include smaller meals, avoiding lying down soon after eating, adjusting foods that clearly trigger symptoms and following prescribed medicines as directed. Do not stop reflux treatment or remove broad food groups without clinical advice, especially if symptoms occur at night or affect eating.

Arrange assessment if reflux is frequent, worsening or not settling with the plan. Seek urgent care for chest pain with sweating or breathlessness, vomiting blood, black stools, progressive difficulty swallowing, food sticking, repeated vomiting or unexplained weight loss. These symptoms can need prompt medical investigation rather than dietary changes alone.

Do my symptoms fit acid reflux, and should I have an examination or tests? Which medicines and dietary changes should I use together?