Hi Miriam,

I haven't seen anything to indicate that it is a genetic thing, but could be a lifestyle thing. Here are some things you can do to lessen the chance of an acid reflux episode. This is good for you as well as your children.

You can read about GERD here in the overview and you can check your symptoms here in the symptoms database. Once you have seen your doctor, if he prescribes medication for GERD, you can read about them here in the drugs database. You can also research treatments available and alternatives here in the treatments database.

Also there are some tips here that are suggested by the resident experts that others find helpful.

• People with heartburn should avoid or reduce consumption of foods and beverages that contain caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, spearmint, and alcohol. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee increase acid secretion.
• All carbonated drinks increase the risk for GERD.
• Although physicians often advise patients with GERD to cut down on fatty foods, studies are finding no evidence that a low-fat or high-fat meal make any difference in symptom exacerbation. Better studies are needed to confirm this. In any case, as a rule, it is always wise to avoid saturated fats (which are from animal products), and cut down on all fats if one is overweight.
• Increasing protein may help strengthen muscles in the muscle valve. Patients should choose low-fat or skim dairy products, poultry, or fish, in such cases.
• Whole grain products rich in selenium may have some protective role against dangerous cells changes in Barrett's esophagus.
• Patients should have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, although avoid acidic vegetables and fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, grapefruit, pineapple**, tomatoes).

Hope this helps! Take care and stay in touch!

Vicki M

I have a neuromuscular disease where acid reflux is one of the symptoms, so my physical make up, such as weak stomach valves, make it "genetic" in a sense.  However, once I figured out what foods triggered excess acid or weakened the valves further (such as peppermint and chocolate) I have much less problem with it.  I also have gastroparesis from my disease, and if my stomach does not empty as it should, it causes my reflux to be worse.  I drink a warm clear beverage about 1.5 to 2 hours after a meal to help my stomach empty.