Diabetics and those who are overweight are at greater risk of gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD. The treatment for GERD includes a bland diet, which can be a part of the diabetic meal planning process. A bland diet may also be used in the treatment of other intestinal ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. The bland diet avoids highly seasoned foods, caffeine, alcohol and acidic foods, and distributes a variety of foods throughout the day. These treatment practices can be combined in a small and frequent meal pattern to reduce symptoms, maintain glycemic control, promote healthy weight and provide nutrients for normal body function and growth.
Definitions
GERD occurs when the sphincter muscle between the esophagus and stomach is not able to hold acids in the stomach. The muscle may not close tightly, or the pressure in the stomach due to volume or content is too high. When acids touch the lining of the esophagus, a burning sensation occurs, commonly called heartburn, as cells are damaged. When the cells are damaged severely, ulcers develop and may create scar tissue, which leads to narrowing of the esophagus, called stricture, and weakened swallowing ability. Diabetes can occur for a variety of reasons, but the overall treatment is the same. Diet must be controlled to provide a more steady distribution of sugar in the bloodstream. Everything you eat turns to blood sugar, but at different rates. Ideally, meals are broken up into a steady schedule, and each meal consists of a variety of food groups to ensure an appropriate mixture of nutrients and digestion rates.
Prevention and Maintenance
Diabetes and GERD can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight. Not smoking and avoiding alcohol, caffeine and fried foods can reduce the amount of stomach acid secretions. Eating small meals assists with diabetes, GERD and other intestinal problem management. Medications are usually necessary to manage symptoms, but can usually be reduced with weight loss, if overweight, and diet management.
Diet
Eat four to six small meals daily. This will reduce the total volume and pressure in the stomach and more evenly distribute the entry of sugar into the bloodstream throughout the day. Foods should be low in spices and vinegar and other acids. This includes chili, tacos, sausage, curried dishes, pickles, salad dressings, marinades, and citrus foods such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit and tomatoes. Fat in the diet increases the pressure in the stomach because it is more difficult to digest. Therefore, avoid fried foods and select low-fat versions of foods when possible, including dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt and pudding. Vegetables should be cooked, canned or frozen. Fruits should be cooked or canned, preferably with seeds and skins removed. Whole grain products, including bread, rice, pasta and cereal, should be spread throughout the day and eaten only in conjunction with another food group. Meats should be lean. Creamy peanut butter, eggs and tofu are excellent sources of low-fat proteins. Avoid chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks.
Bland Foods
Small meals throughout the day that include a variety of nutrient-dense, low-fat and bland foods may include the following: cottage cheese with canned peaches, whole grain toast with peanut butter, plain yogurt with sliced banana, oatmeal with applesauce and cinnamon, hard-boiled eggs, sliced turkey sandwich with lettuce, and baked fish with low-fat scalloped potatoes and squash.
Caution
GERD is a serious condition that may increase the risk of cancer. Tell your doctor if you experience serious heartburn more than twice per week. Diabetics should continue a regular meal pattern, including a bland diet, consistent with their blood sugar monitoring and medication practices. A registered dietitian can help you plan a diet more specific to your situation and conditions.
