Can patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) eat pumpkin?

Normally, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to the condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Patients with GERD can eat pumpkin, but it should not be consumed in large quantities.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common digestive system disorder. Its main symptoms include the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing discomfort such as heartburn and chest pain. Pumpkin is a nutrient-rich food containing abundant minerals, amino acids, pectin, and other nutritional components. These nutrients not only help enhance immune function but also improve the performance of the digestive system. For patients with GERD, the pectin in pumpkin helps regulate the absorption rate of food in the stomach, reduce sugar absorption, and may aid in controlling gastric acid reflux.

Although pumpkin itself is beneficial for patients with GERD, excessive oil or spicy seasonings should be avoided during cooking, as they may stimulate gastric acid secretion and worsen the condition. It is recommended to use healthy cooking methods such as steaming or boiling and to consume pumpkin in moderation, to fully benefit from its nutritional value while avoiding excessive intake that could lead to indigestion.

To maintain good health, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet with appropriate portion sizes, pay attention to bodily reactions, and avoid excessive consumption or eating when inappropriate.