A Costco-sized bottle of TUMS was what I requested as a birthday gift when I turned 31. It might have seemed like a joke, but I had been relying on those chalky tablets three to four times a day for over a year. The fear of getting older that plagued my friends did not bother me as much, as I had not experienced the physical health issues they were facing yet. Dealing with depression and anxiety since the age of 14 seemed like a fair trade-off to me compared to aches and pains in my back or knees.
However, everything changed on my 30th birthday when I woke up with terrible heartburn. It wasn’t just a one-time case of over-indulgence; it marked the beginning of a new era of gastrointestinal issues I was ill-prepared for. Seeking help from experts, I was diagnosed with GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, through an endoscopy procedure recommended by my gastroenterologist.
Learning about my diagnosis, I found that GERD is a common condition affecting a significant portion of the population in the U.S. including members of my own family. Medications provided some relief, but making significant lifestyle changes, particularly in my diet, was essential. This, however, had unexpected effects on my mental health, triggering feelings of anxiety and depression.
Food had always been a source of comfort and solace for my mental health struggles. Cooking was a therapeutic escape where I could lose myself in the process. Having to give up beloved comfort foods and traditional family recipes due to my GERD diagnosis was a significant blow. The connection between my stomach issues and mental health became undeniable as I struggled to navigate a new dietary reality.
The impact of GERD on mental health is not to be underestimated, with studies showing a strong tie between the two. Adjusting to lifestyle changes can provoke feelings of anxiety and depression. For me, the constant vigilance over food choices and the restrictions on social dining caused significant distress. The mind-gut connection is a complex and evolving field of research that sheds light on the impact of physical conditions on mental wellbeing.
