The most common way to treat GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is through diet. GERD is a stomach condition in which stomach acid and, sometimes, bile moves up the esophagus. The esophagus, also known as your food pipe, becomes irritated by the acid, and over time it becomes damaged. Acid reflux happens because the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus stops closing properly. By avoiding foods that trigger your GERD, you stand a good chance at managing the problem.
Many people mistakenly believe that avoiding acidic foods is enough to control GERD. Unfortunately, it is not just acidic foods that trigger GERD. Foods that lower pressure on the muscles of the lower esophagus tend to trigger episodes. These foods include high-fat foods, peppermint and chocolate. Also, foods that slow the emptying of the stomach can trigger GERD because gastric acids stay in the stomach longer and have a high chance of being regurgitated. High-fat foods, especially fried foods, are known to aggravate episodes of GERD. Lastly, foods that stimulate the secretion of acids, such as spicy foods, caffeine and alcoholic beverages, should be avoided while on the diet.
What to Look for
Steer your shopping cart toward low-fat food options. Lower-fat foods are less likely to trigger an episode of GERD. Lower-fat foods empty from the stomach more rapidly than high-fat foods, reducing the risk of acid reflux. In the store, look for lean meats and fish instead of higher-fat meats.
Chose gentle fruits for your stomach like apples and bananas. Although acidic foods are not the only cause of GERD, some acidic fruits like citrus tend to trigger acid reflux. Keep a list of fruits that seem to be OK for your GERD, and then stock up on those items when you go grocery shopping.
When you are shopping, think about portion size. One way to reduce episodes of GERD is to eat smaller meals. On the GERD diet, you may be able to buy less food than you had been buying previously. And this may have the added benefit of helping with weight loss.
Common Pitfalls
Most people think gum is pretty harmless since we chew it rather than eat it. But gum can stimulate the production of digestive acids. Avoid chewing gum to keep things in your stomach as calm as possible, and reduce the chances of acid reflux.
For all you coffee drinkers on the GERD diet, you should avoid that morning cup of coffee. No need to buy coffee beans. In addition to coffee, again, chocolate and peppermint can also trigger episodes of GERD.
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