Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following may NOT help relieve GERD symptoms?

1. Losing weight

2. Stopping caffeine intake

3. Chewing breath mints

4. Stopping alcohol intake

The correct answer is: Chewing breath mints

Chewing breath mints may not help relieve GERD symptoms because, while they can temporarily mask bad breath, they often contain ingredients that may stimulate the production of stomach acid or increase gastric reflux. Furthermore, many mints contain sugar or acids, which can further irritate the esophagus and exacerbate GERD symptoms rather than alleviate them. In contrast, losing weight, stopping caffeine intake, and stopping alcohol intake are all more directly linked to symptom relief in individuals with GERD. Weight loss can reduce abdominal pressure, caffeine is known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, and alcohol can also have a relaxing effect on that sphincter, leading to increased reflux. Thus, these lifestyle changes are typically recommended to help manage GERD symptoms effectively.