Gastric reflux, also known as acid reflux, is a condition where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens spontaneously, allowing stomach acid and contents to come up. It is the precursor to the more serious condition gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastric reflux causes heartburn, chest pain, a burning sensation and coughing. According to a 2009 article in the "World Journal of Gastroenterology," the role of diet in preventing and improving gastric reflux is controversial. Currently there is no specific diet for gastric reflux, and every diet needs to be tailored individually based on tolerance and personal preference. However, certain foods do have a history of exacerbating symptoms of gastric reflux and should be limited or avoided until an individual understands how he will respond.
Citrus & Tomato Products
Citrus and tomato products are acidic foods that increase stomach acid and may cause a negative reaction in individuals with gastric reflux. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend limiting citrus fruits and juices, canned tomatoes, spaghetti and pizza sauce, salsa and chili.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains methylxanthine, which the McKinley Health Center (MHC) says reduces LES pressure and relaxes intestinal muscle, making it easier for the sphincter to open and stomach contents to rise.
Caffeine
Caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea and soda should be avoided because caffeine relaxes the LES. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) also says that caffeine irritates the stomach lining and increases stomach acid production. According to the MHC, decaffeinated and/or caffeinated coffee can be consumed with regards to individual tolerance.
Alcohol
According to a study published in 2000 in the "American Journal of Gastroenterology," alcohol reduces LES pressure and slows the movement of contents from the esophagus through the intestinal tract. The MHC recommends drinking alcohol on an individual basis only if tolerated.
Fatty and Spicy Foods
Fatty foods like deep fried foods and foods made with a lot of butter, oil and whole milk products relax the LES, according the UMM. Eating high fat foods also delays stomach emptying, allowing more time for gastric reflux to occur. The UMM recommends consuming healthy oils like olive oil and vegetable oil, and avoiding trans-fats found in commercially-prepared baked goods and processed foods. The NIH recommends limiting or avoiding spicy foods like chilies and hot sauce which can cause heartburn and increase gastric reflux symptoms.
Mint
Mints like spearmint and peppermint naturally relax the smooth muscles of the intestines making gastric reflux more likely. The MHC recommends chewing non-mint flavored gum, which actually increases saliva production and decreases the amount of acid in the esophagus and may improve gastric reflux symptoms.
References
- "American Journal of Gastroenterology"; The effects of alcohol upon the gastrointestinal tract; L. Buianda; 2000
- McKinley Health Center: The GERD
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Body weight, lifestyle, dietary habits and gastroesophageal reflux disease; D. Festi, et al; 2009
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