Vegetarian GERD Diet

GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which food and acid in the stomach leak backward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms 1. MedlinePlus says that left untreated, GERD can lead to other problems, ranging from tooth erosion and the formation of scar tissue to breathing problems, bleeding and increased risk of cancer. Treatment begins, according to MedlinePlus, with diet and lifestyle change. Vegetarians with GERD face special challenges, so ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian to make sure you meet your nutritional needs.

Definition

The American Dietetic Association says that a vegetarian diet is one that does not include meat, poultry, seafood or foods made from these items 4. The ADA distinguishes between lacto-ovo, lacto- and total vegetarian diets. The adaptations required for GERD symptoms vary by the type of vegetarian diet you follow.

Foods to Enjoy

Foods That Don't Cause Heartburn

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Fruits and vegetables -- with the exception of citrus and tomatoes -- form the foundation of a healthy diet for GERD. Dr. Rian Podein of the University of Wisconsin-Madison says that flavonoids found in fruits and vegetables curb the growth of bacteria that contribute to stomach acidity. Podein specifically suggests eating broccoli or broccoli sprouts at least twice a week. Grains are generally GERD neutral. Safe protein sources for vegetarians with GERD include egg whites, egg substitutes, non-cow’s milk dairy products such as feta or chevre cheese, and legumes.

Foods to Limit

In the 2007 edition of his book “Integrative Medicine”, University of Washington professor David Rakel says that substances in cow’s milk trigger GERD symptoms for some people 23. Cow’s milk foods to limit include milk, yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese and cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella. Foods made from whole soy -- such as tofu, edamame, soy milk or cheese and soy "nuts" -- peanuts, tree nuts or egg yolk are protein staples for many vegetarians. However, because their fat content can potentiate acid secretion, you should proceed with caution and avoid consuming them at the end of the day or as part of a large meal.

Foods to Avoid

Protein Foods & Acid Reflux

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For vegetarians, this means avoiding fried tofu, fried eggs and fatty dairy products such as ice cream or sour cream. Fermented foods such as miso and tempeh also can pose problems.

Complications

The ADA says that some vegetarians have difficulty meeting needs for vitamin B12, calcium, iron and zinc. If you are a vegetarian who also takes over-the-counter or prescription medications for GERD, ask your doctor about monitoring these nutrients. Over time, deficiencies in these nutrients can produce complications such as:

• anemia
  
• osteoporosis and
  
• in the case of B12 deficiency
  
• neurological problems

Considerations

If you continue to experience symptoms despite making changes to your diet, see your doctor, who might recommend other treatments to control your GERD. Also ask about registered dietitian services. Modifying a vegetarian diet to accommodate GERD can be difficult. A registered dietitian can help you tailor your diet to your individual food preferences and lifestyle, or to manage another health problem, such as diabetes.