Poor Eating Habits Drive Rising Gastric Cancer Risk in Asia, Africa

Acid reflux can be worsened by various dietary choices, with fried foods identified as the leading trigger due to their high fat content that relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and delays stomach emptying, promoting acid backflow. To manage and reduce reflux symptoms, experts recommend eating smaller, lighter meals, avoiding carbonated drinks, spicy foods like oranges, lemons, and chilies, and waiting 2–3 hours before lying down after eating. Additionally, maintaining a reflux diary can help individuals identify personal food sensitivities. Meanwhile, poor eating habits and Helicobacter pylori infection are driving a rise in gastric cancer globally, particularly in India and China, with younger populations increasingly at risk due to factors like contaminated water and junk food consumption. Diet also plays a vital role in managing other health conditions; for example, reducing salt intake is crucial for controlling high blood pressure, and limiting added sugars, especially from candy, is important for brain health and reducing dementia risk. Overall, dietary modifications focusing on lean proteins, high-fiber grains, fruits, vegetables, and avoiding high-fat, high-salt, or high-sugar foods can significantly improve digestive and overall health outcomes.