A prominent gut health expert has issued a warning about a rising ‘silent epidemic’ of acid reflux affecting men, with serious implications for their health. Dr. Daryl Gioffre, a nutritionist and author, explains that men are more vulnerable to severe acid reflux symptoms and complications such as Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition. The expert has also linked lifestyle factors such as stress, poor sleep, and unhealthy dietary choices to the increasing prevalence of this issue. Highlighting the importance of dietary changes, stress reduction, and better sleep habits, Dr. Gioffre urges men to adopt a more proactive approach to prevent long-term damage from acid reflux.
According to Dr. Gioffre, acid reflux is not just about heartburn but signals a deeper issue of systemic inflammation that affects gut health, metabolism, and the stress response. Men, in particular, face a higher risk due to biological differences, including reduced production of protective mucus and saliva, which buffer acid when it refluxes into the esophagus. Additionally, factors like late-night eating, low-fiber diets, and high caffeine consumption exacerbate the risk. He also pointed out the role of ultraprocessed foods, which contain refined salts, sugars, and seed oils that inflame the gut and weaken digestion, contributing significantly to reflux issues.
Dr. Gioffre emphasized that men’s lifestyle behaviors, such as skipping meals, eating too quickly, and relying on convenience foods, further compound the problem. Over time, these habits can lead to a chronic acid assault on the gut lining, promoting inflammation and increasing the risk of esophageal cancer. He urged men to take proactive steps like eating three hours before bedtime to allow for proper digestion, avoiding known triggers such as garlic, onions, and carbonated drinks, and incorporating alkaline-rich foods into their diet.
The expert also highlighted the importance of sleep and stress management in maintaining gut health. Poor sleep leads to increased cortisol levels, which interfere with digestion and lead to bloating, gas, and more reflux symptoms. He recommended simple grounding practices like walking in nature, deep breathing, or stretching after meals to promote a ‘rest-and-digest’ state. Dr. Gioffre concluded that to heal acid reflux naturally, men need to not only adjust their diet but also change their lifestyle habits to reduce acid levels at the root cause and maintain overall gut health.