Effect of dietary sodium chloride on gastro-oesophageal reflux: a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
It has been suggested that a high consumption of sodium chloride (NaCl) is associated with reflux symptoms. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of increased dietary NaCl intake on gastro-oesophageal reflux and reflux mechanisms.


METHODS
In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study 10 healthy male subjects received 5 g NaCl or placebo in capsules per day for one week, after which concurrent manometric, pH and impedance monitoring was carried out for 4.5 h.


RESULTS
Oesophageal acid exposure time (pH < 4) was similar for placebo (median 11% (25th 3-75th 36)) and NaCl (9% (1-36)). No differences in the numbers of reflux episodes were found for NaCl (16 (13.5-22)) and placebo (23 (14.8-27)). Furthermore, similar numbers of liquid acid reflux episodes (placebo 12 (6.5-17.3); NaCl 10 (2.3-14.3)), liquid weakly acidic reflux episodes (placebo 5.5 (4-12.3); NaCl 6.5 (3-10.8)) and gaseous reflux episodes (placebo 1 (0-1.8); NaCl 2 (0-3)) were seen. In both conditions transient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxations (TLOSRs) were the most common reflux mechanism, followed by swallow-induced reflux. High salt intake lowered LOS pressure overall and in the first postprandial hour (p<0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
High dietary sodium intake does not increase gastro-oesophageal reflux in healthy volunteers, despite a decrease in LOS pressure.
Aanen
Marissa C
MC
Gastrointestinal Research Unit, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands. m.aanen@umcutrecht.nl
Bredenoord
Albert J
AJ
Smout
André J P M
AJ
D000328:Adult; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008297:Male; D008365:Manometry; D012982:Sodium, Dietary / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*
D012982:Sodium, Dietary