India is seeing a significant rise in acid reflux cases, with more people requiring surgery due to late-night eating habits. This growing health crisis is transforming what was once a common annoyance into a serious medical concern. Studies show that gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, affects between 7.6% and 30% of the Indian population. In some southern states, a striking 44% of people experience heartburn monthly. Doctors across the country report an alarming increase in severe gastrointestinal complications, pushing more patients towards surgical interventions.[indianexpress+4]
India's Late-Night Eating Fuels Reflux Epidemic
Modern Indian lifestyles, marked by demanding work schedules, the convenience of food delivery apps, and irregular sleep patterns, are largely to blame for this surge. Many urban Indians now routinely eat dinner at 9:30 PM, 10 PM, or even later. This habit disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm, which governs digestion, hormones, and metabolism. Eating late slows down calorie burning, increases hunger, and promotes fat storage, according to a 2022 study.[mykunba+1]
Gastroenterologist Dr. Saswata Chatterjee, Consultant – Gastro Science at CMRI Kolkata, highlights the worrying trend. "We are seeing a clear rise in acid reflux and related gastrointestinal problems, and one of the biggest contributors is the growing late-night eating culture," Dr. Chatterjee said. When people eat late and then lie down soon after, gravity stops helping digestion. The stomach remains full as the body prepares for rest, making it easier for acid to flow back up into the food pipe. This repeated irritation causes the burning sensation known as heartburn. Dr. Surakshith T.K., senior consultant, gastroenterology and hepatology at Fortis Escorts, Okhla, noted that late-night eating interferes with natural digestion cycles, leading to overproduction of stomach acid.[etvbharat+5]
When Acidity Becomes a Crisis
What starts as occasional heartburn can progress to chronic GERD, leading to severe health complications. Uncontrolled acid reflux can damage the esophagus, causing inflammation (esophagitis), narrowing of the food pipe (strictures), and a condition called Barrett's esophagus, which increases the risk of cancer. Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, a Surgical Gastroenterologist from Apollo Hospital, warned that persistent acidity and heartburn should not be ignored, as long-term GERD can quietly destroy the food pipe. He likened untreated GERD to "the slow fire that burns you from the inside".[etvbharat+5]
The rise in severe, long-standing symptoms is directly linked to a proportional increase in patients requiring surgery. Dr. Chatterjee noted that hospitals are now seeing more patients who need surgical intervention to prevent further damage and manage complications. Even a 10% increase in reflux-related complications translates to a significant rise in gastrointestinal surgeries across India's large population. Surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic fundoplication, are performed to strengthen the weakened lower esophageal sphincter and stop acid reflux, offering long-term relief for those who do not respond to medication.[etvbharat+1]
Simple Steps to Avoid Surgery and Improve Gut Health
Doctors emphasize that most acid reflux cases can be managed with lifestyle changes. Adopting healthier habits can prevent the progression to severe GERD and the need for surgery.
One of the most crucial changes is meal timing. Aim to finish dinner at least two to three hours before going to bed. This allows the stomach enough time to digest food before the body lies down. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, recommends going to bed with an empty stomach and avoiding food for three to four hours before sleep. Avoiding lying down immediately after meals is also key.[etvbharat+9]
Food choices play a significant role. Limit or avoid deep-fried snacks, heavy gravies rich in butter or cream, very spicy foods, excessive tea and coffee, carbonated drinks, and late-night sweets. Instead, opt for reflux-friendly options like soft-cooked rice, dal, khichdi, steamed vegetables, curd, buttermilk, whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of water for hydration. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can also reduce pressure on the stomach.[foodnwellness+19]
Other lifestyle modifications include maintaining a healthy weight, as excess abdominal fat increases pressure on the stomach. Elevating the head of your bed by 6-8 inches or using a wedge pillow can help keep acid down while sleeping. Sleeping on your left side is also recommended to minimize nocturnal reflux. Stress management techniques, like yoga or meditation, can also aid digestion. Gentle walks after meals can improve digestion and reduce reflux risk. Finally, avoid tight-fitting clothes around the waist, which can put pressure on the stomach.[drsandeeppal+24]
The growing acid reflux epidemic in India underscores the critical need for awareness about the impact of modern eating habits. By making simple yet consistent lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of severe gastrointestinal issues and avoid the need for surgery.
