In dietary management for a client with GERD, what should be avoided to help limit symptoms?

Avoiding alcohol consumption is crucial for dietary management in clients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally acts as a barrier to prevent stomach acids from flowing back up into the esophagus. When this sphincter relaxes, it increases the likelihood of acid reflux, leading to symptoms such as heartburn and discomfort. Additionally, alcohol can irritate the esophageal lining and could potentially exacerbate inflammation in individuals already suffering from GERD.

While the other options may also contribute to GERD symptoms in some individuals, studies have particularly highlighted alcohol's impact on the physiological mechanisms involved in reflux. Therefore, limiting or avoiding alcohol is a primary recommendation for managing GERD effectively.