Eggs and gastroesophageal reflux disease
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Eggs, Animal Foods, and Risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Several studies have examined the relationship between egg consumption, animal-based diets, and the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Diets that include animal foods such as eggs, meat, fish, and dairy are associated with a higher risk of GERD compared to vegan or vegetarian diets. People who consume animal-based foods have about twice the prevalence of GERD compared to those who follow a vegan diet, even after accounting for other factors like body mass index (BMI) and smoking habits 23. Systematic reviews also confirm that regular intake of meat, fish, and eggs is positively linked to GERD, while vegetarian diets are associated with a lower risk .
Eggs and Non-Erosive Reflux Disease (NERD) vs. Reflux Esophagitis
Research shows that the effects of eggs and other foods may differ between types of reflux conditions. Higher egg consumption appears to reduce the risk of non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), a form of GERD without visible esophageal injury, but does not have a significant association with reflux esophagitis, which involves visible inflammation or damage to the esophagus . Other foods like beans, vegetables, fruits, fish, and milk also show a protective effect against NERD, but not against reflux esophagitis, which is more closely related to factors like BMI and total energy intake .
Eggs as a Risk Factor for NERD in Specific Populations
Some studies suggest that egg intake may increase the risk of NERD in certain populations. For example, in a Japanese study, egg consumption was associated with a higher risk of NERD, along with other factors such as sleep shortage and psychological stress . This indicates that the impact of eggs on reflux symptoms may vary by population and other lifestyle factors.
Eggs, Food Allergy, and GERD in Children
In children, especially those under three years old, food allergies—including allergies to egg yolk and egg white—are more common among those with GERD than in the general population . In these cases, food allergies may contribute to reflux symptoms, and eliminating eggs and other allergens from the diet can help manage the condition 46. In patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, a condition with symptoms similar to GERD, eggs are frequently identified as a trigger food, and removing eggs from the diet can lead to significant improvement .
Lifestyle and Dietary Patterns Affecting GERD
Beyond specific foods like eggs, overall dietary and lifestyle habits play a major role in GERD risk. Irregular eating patterns, eating large meals, eating close to bedtime, high-fat diets, smoking, and alcohol use all increase the risk of GERD 35. Conversely, regular physical activity and diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with a lower risk .
Conclusion
Eggs and other animal-based foods are generally associated with a higher risk of GERD, especially when compared to plant-based diets. However, the relationship between egg consumption and reflux symptoms can vary depending on the type of reflux disease, population, and individual factors such as food allergies. For those with GERD or related symptoms, considering dietary patterns and potential food allergies—including to eggs—may help in managing the condition.
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