Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a type of chronic gastrointestinal disease in which heartburn and regurgitation are the main clinical manifestations and esophageal and pulmonary symptoms may occur. According to endoscopic findings and esophageal pH monitoring, there may also be asymptomatic manifestations.

The following lifestyle factors are associated with GERD: smoking, alcohol consumption, mental status, higher education, less sleep time, sedentary and physical occupational activities, night work, and less exercise. Food high in protein and fat, poor eating habits (including snacking at night and overeating), and increased abdominal pressure are positively correlated with GERD. Belt tightness, wearing girdles or corsets, and constipation are positively correlated with GERD. A vegetarian diet has a protective effect.

Following are recommended to reduce GERD

1. Regarding post meal habits, sitting or walking after a meal instead of lying down is beneficial for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease
2. Raising the head of the bed by 20 cm, can effectively reduce the acid reflux time, acid clearance time, and number of reflux events >5 min
3. Stop eating and drinking 3 hours before bedtime
4. Early and light dinner is preferred
5. Stop smoking
6. Stop alcohol consumption