GERD Awareness Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about GERD Awareness Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. GERD Awareness Week is observed on November 20th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of GERD Awareness Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you might want to know about GERD Awareness Week.

📅 What day is GERD Awareness Week 2024?

In 2024, GERD Awareness Week is on Monday, November 20th. It is the 3rd Monday in November; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the exciting details and facts about November 20, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National GERD Awareness Week was designated as a part of the National Health Observances calendar in November 1999. The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) advises individuals experiencing symptoms of GERD (such as heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, etc.) to seek treatment consistently, with a particular emphasis during this week. While dietary changes may offer relief for some, for many others, managing GERD is a more complex and challenging task.

📜 GERD Awareness Week History

How did we come to develop the illness known as GERD, and how did the idea of a week of honor for this condition come about?

The exact cause of GERD is not known, but medical experts understand that it occurs when the muscular barrier between the esophagus and the stomach malfunctions or becomes overwhelmed. They can now differentiate between simple heartburn, which can happen to anyone, and the symptoms of GERD, which include heartburn but are more extensive.

To clarify, heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, which also includes symptoms like regurgitation into the throat. Acid reflux, in turn, is a symptom of GERD, which encompasses other symptoms such as wheezing in bed.

Reliable sources indicate that the IFFGD wanted GERD to be officially recognized as a serious condition due to its progressive nature and its interrelation with other digestive problems. Additionally, the number of people affected by these issues is on the rise.

✅ GERD Awareness Week Facts

🔖 They can contain seemingly contradictory ingredients
Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, found in antacids, are known to alleviate digestive discomfort. However, they have contrasting negative effects on the body. While aluminum hydroxide can cause constipation, magnesium hydroxide has the potential to lead to diarrhea.

🔖 “A little about brittle”
It’s unfortunate, but it is common for older adults to excessively rely on over-the-counter antacids to alleviate heartburn and other gastrointestinal issues.

🔖 They are versatile
Antacids are commonly associated with the treatment of heartburn, yet they have additional benefits for alleviating stomach pain, indigestion, and similar issues.

👍 Why Is GERD Awareness Week Important

If you’ve never heard of GERD (also known as acid reflux disease), you may be suffering from it without even knowing it. Without therapy, GERD can progress to precancerous diseases over time. Even if you are completely healthy, learning more about GERD may help you spot symptoms in a friend or family member and encourage them to get medical assistance.

Even if you’ve never experienced GERD symptoms, overindulging in very acidic foods and beverages might set off an episode. This week is an excellent opportunity to educate yourself and your family on the role your food plays in this disease. It is not about deprivation, but rather learning how to enjoy delicacies in moderation to help avoid GERD and related diseases.

It may be possible to not only control your GERD symptoms but even repair your body over time by learning about the foods and beverages that may promote a healthier gastrointestinal tract. (This may not apply to everyone’s circumstance; consult with your doctor about any treatment choices that are appropriate for you.) Making dietary adjustments requires dedication, but it is for a good cause: to help you live your life to the fullest.

🙂 How To Observe GERD Awareness Week

⚡ Make a commitment to healthier eating

⚡ Plan GERD-friendly menus with your family
In general, it is best to avoid meals that are high in acid or caffeine, like citrus fruits, cranberries, coffee, chocolate, peppermint, and spicy foods. However, there are still plenty of delicious options available. For instance, French cuisine focuses on using high-quality ingredients and techniques to enhance their flavors. A French cooking tradition like roasting a whole chicken with fresh herbs can be a fantastic choice for a meal that is gentle on the stomach and suitable for those with GERD.

⚡ Cook something tasty for a friend with GERD
Even if it’s a little early for goals, there’s no better time than now to commit to good eating habits—one step at a time. For example, try drinking a bit less coffee, and then experiment with reducing the quantity of heat-producing spices you use when cooking. And just lowering the amount of food you consume at each meal can make a difference, as can eating more slowly, which has been shown to assist digestion. If you’re having difficulties slowing down, try concentrating just on your eating (i.e., no multi-tasking while you eat).

📅 When is GERD Awareness Week?

See all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about GERD Awareness Week. So be sure to check back soon.