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An acid reflux diet can help people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterized by acid reflux from the stomach.
Diet plays a crucial role in the management of GERD, so foods that may cause discomfort must be avoided completely in an acid reflux diet. There are several other lifestyle-related factors that might trigger acid reflux in GERD.
In this article, we will bring out a list of foods to include and avoid while following an acid reflux diet.
Factors Causing Acid Reflux
The most common factors include:
- Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
- Obesity
- Age
- Consumption of alcohol
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, NSAIDs, or antidepressants
Treatment of acid reflux involves managing its symptoms, including heartburn and discomfort. While there're no official guidelines for an acid reflux diet, dietitians often recommend the exclusion of certain foods that might trigger acid reflux. A gastroparesis diet is often prescribed in severe cases.
Foods Good for Acid Reflux
Although food cannot cure acid reflux, certain foods can relieve the symptoms of GERD in an acid reflux diet. Look to include the following foods in your regular diet:
Vegetables
Vegetables are low in fat and sugar. Green beans, broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, leafy greens, potatoes, and cucumbers do not cause acid reflux.
Ginger
Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties and is a natural treatment for heartburn and other intestinal problems. You can make smoothies and detox juice cleanse drinks with ginger slices.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a whole grain and is among the best fiber-rich foods. A diet high in fiber can help lower risk of acid reflux. Whole-grain bread and whole-grain rice are also among the safe options.
Non-citrus fruit
Non-citrus fruits, including melons, bananas, apples, and pears, are safe on an acid reflux diet due to their low acid content.
Lean meat and seafood
Lean meats, including chicken, turkey, fish, and seafood, are low in fat and can reduce acid reflux in GERD and similar disorders. Lightly cooked recipes are preferred. Excess use of spices should be avoided.
Egg white
Egg whites are a good option. Limit egg yolks, which are high in fat and may trigger reflux symptoms. If you're not experiencing such issues, you can include egg yolks ocassionally.
Healthy fat
Healthy fats include avocados, walnuts, olive oil, and coconut oil. Reduce your intake of seed oils, including soybean oil, sunflower oil, and flax seed oil. These are among the foods that cause inflammation.
GERD Foods to Avoid
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. LES is a ring-like muscle situated in the lower part of the esophagus. Certain foods can relax the LES muscles, causing acid reflux.
High-fat foods
Fried and fatty foods can cause the LES to relax and should be avoided on an acid reflux diet. These foods might cause discomfort due to delayed stomach emptying. Reducing total daily fat intake might help reduce the symptoms.
Avoid or reduce the intake of the following high-fat foods:
- French fries, onion rings, and other deep-fried snacks
- Full-fat dairy products, including butter, whole milk, cheese, and sour cream
- Fatty pieces of beef, pork, or lamb
- Bacon fat, ham fat, and lard
- High-fat desserts or snacks, such as ice cream and potato chips
- Cream sauces, high-fat gravies, and fatty salad dressings
- Oily and greasy fast foods
Other than these foods, caffeine can also cause acid reflux and should be avoided.
Citrus fruits
Although fruits and vegetables are considered healthy, certain fruits can cause acid reflux and trigger other symptoms of GERD, especially highly acidic fruits. Look to reduce or avoid intake of the following foods in an acid reflux diet:
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lime
- Pineapple
- Tomato
- Salsa
Not just fruit, chocolate is also among the foods that may cause heartburn and acid reflux.
Acid Reflux Diet & Treatment
Living with GERD and acid reflux might be difficult, as there's no cure for such a condition.
A properly planned diet along with the necessary medications can help significantly. A low-FODMAP diet can help reduce the symptoms. An acid reflux diet must be accompanied by other remedies as prescribed by a medical professional.
