High-Fat Meals Weaken Esophageal Sphincter and Increase Reflux
Do High-Fat Meals Really Worsen Acid Reflux?
Yes, high-fat meals significantly reduce lower esophageal sphincter pressure and increase gastroesophageal reflux compared to low-fat meals in healthy individuals. Research shows that dietary fat content directly affects esophageal sphincter function, with high-fat meals causing both immediate sphincter relaxation and prolonged periods of increased reflux susceptibility through hormonal and neural mechanisms.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
This research provides clear evidence for why fatty foods are such common GERD triggers. High-fat meals don’t just slow gastric emptying - they actually weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, the primary barrier against reflux. The effect is both immediate and prolonged, explaining why people often experience symptoms hours after eating fatty foods. This gives us scientific backing for the dietary advice we give GERD patients about avoiding high-fat meals, especially in the evening.