Lower Esophageal Sphincter

Acid Reflux & Quitting Smoking?

I have acid reflux and ive been told that smoking is a big cause because the nicotine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. But I was wondering if the nicotine replacement therapy such as patched and gum will actually do the same thing as the actual cigarettes are doing? And is it the nicotine in the blood that relaxes the esophageal muscle or is it from taking it orally and the smoke thats doing it?

Cigarette smoking has been shown to decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure.
This decrease in LESP may be due to nicotine in the cigarette smoke OR substances other than nicotine.
The effect of nicotine on gastric acid secretion is still not entirely clear, as studies have yielded contradictory findings, with both an increase and a decrease in secretion being observed.

Nicotine patches and gums produce a decrease in distal esophageal peristalsis too, resulting in reflux.
This is probably the result of nicotine-mediated release of Nitrogen Oxide at the lower esophageal sphincter.

So essentially, yes it does have similar effects to smoking, however, consider the long term benefits.
You will not be chewing nicotine gums forever! It is only until your cravings decrease enough for you to handle. So in the long run it will benefit you as you decrease the risk of GORD, ulcers etc…

I say give it a go!

Wish you the best of luck

Waga Esophageal Sphincter

Reflux Mechanisms in Gerd. Analysis of the role of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations. 2005 Edition …