I was diagnosed with severe acid reflux more than a year ago, and now I want to use Slimfast to lose about 10-20 pounds. Do you think my system would be okay to try this again? It worked for me years ago.

Stacy

Reflux is the most common symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GERD occurs when acid washes up from the stomach into the esophagus due to a weakening of the sphincter that separates these organs. Therapy for GERD centers on two main concepts: lifestyle modification and acid-suppressing medications.

The lifestyle modifications used in treating GERD include avoiding foods that may aggravate reflux. Foods that contain caffeine or that are high in fat tend to make the lower esophageal sphincter more lax, making reflux worse. Size and timing of meals is also important. Eating smaller meals will make reflux less likely because there will be less acidic material in the stomach that can reflux back up into the esophagus. Adjusting your dinner schedule to allow more time before bed will give the stomach more time to empty and make reflux less likely.

To answer your specific question, reflux is more common among obese people, and the importance of weight reduction cannot be stressed enough for GERD patients who are overweight. As long as you follow a healthy weight-loss plan -- and that can include diet shakes -- your reflux symptoms should improve. However, you should be sure to talk with your doctor before starting any new diet.