GERD, short for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic condition where stomach acid and partially digested food flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This backflow is due to a weakened or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally acts as a one-way valve between the stomach and the esophagus.
Obesity: Causes Consequences and Effective Management
Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat relative to lean body mass. It is typically measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), which considers a person’s height and weight. An individual with a BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized obesity as a global epidemic, and its prevalence has more than doubled since 1980.
