Gut health expert Dr. Daryl Gioffre has raised an alarm about the growing threat of acid reflux, labeling it a ‘silent epidemic’ affecting men’s health. This condition, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is causing severe symptoms and complications, particularly in men, who are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer. Men are nearly twice as likely to develop this condition compared to women, with esophageal cancer being up to nine times more common in men. The expert attributes this disparity to a combination of biological, lifestyle, and dietary factors.
Gioffre explains that men’s higher acid exposure and biological differences, such as reduced protective mucus and saliva, make them more vulnerable to acid reflux and its long-term consequences. Lifestyle factors, including chronic stress, poor sleep, processed foods, alcohol consumption, and medication overuse, further exacerbate the problem. Additionally, men’s dietary habits, such as a preference for meat and ultraprocessed foods, combined with a tendency to ignore symptoms, contribute to a ‘perfect storm’ of chronic inflammation and a higher risk of reflux.
The expert highlights the role of late-night eating, large portions, and high caffeine intake in worsening acid reflux. He also points out the negative impact of ultraprocessed foods, which contain refined salt, sugar, and seed oils that inflame the gut and weaken digestion. Men often consume more coffee, typically on an empty stomach, leading to a constant caffeine hit that strips minerals, dehydrates the body, and spikes acidity, increasing reflux risk. These factors collectively create a situation where the gut lining is eroded, increasing the likelihood of developing Barrett’s esophagus and subsequent esophageal cancer.
In terms of management, Gioffre recommends lifestyle changes, including avoiding late-night meals, eliminating trigger foods like garlic, onions, spicy foods, alcohol, chocolate, citrus fruits, and carbonated drinks. He advises incorporating alkaline foods such as leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds, along with digestive enzymes and probiotics. Practical steps like starting the day with warm lemon water or slippery elm tea help soothe the upper GI tract and ease reflux symptoms. Stress management and quality sleep are also emphasized as crucial for restoring gut health and reducing acid levels naturally. Overall, the expert stresses the importance of addressing both diet and lifestyle to combat the silent epidemic of acid reflux among men, preventing long-term health complications.