Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms. While some people may need medication to control this condition, the symptoms of GERD can often be relieved with lifestyle changes and diet modification. The diet for GERD patients is used to control the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and improve quality of life.
Total Fat
Fried foods and foods that have a high fat content are known to decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure and make the stomach empty more slowly, allowing stomach acids to reflux into the esophagus. Limit fried foods and avoid foods that are high in fat. Examples of fatty foods include butter, egg yolks, poultry with skin, fatty cuts of meat, processed meats, shortening, lard, avocado, whole-milk dairy products, cookies, muffins, pastries and cakes.
Caloric Intake
People who have GERD and are overweight may be advised to reduce their caloric intake in order to lose weight. Being overweight or obese puts pressure on the stomach that can cause stomach acids to move back into the esophagus. There are several ways to cut calories without sacrificing the flavor of food. Cook without adding fats such as butter or margarine to main dishes and appetizers. Drink water or low-calorie beverages instead of soft drinks and sweetened juices. Trim all of the visible fat from cuts of beef, chicken and pork. Because alcoholic beverages are high in calories, replace them with water or natural fruit juices to decrease overall caloric intake.
Meal Size
Large meals put additional pressure on the stomach and contribute to the development of acid reflux. Physicians from the University of Kentucky recommend eating several small meals throughout the day instead of two or three large ones. Portion sizes can be controlled in a number of ways. Read food labels thoroughly to determine how much food is in one serving of each product. Eat slowly and savor each bite of food. Pay attention to the flavors of each food and chew each bite thoroughly. These methods can help to control portion size so that acid reflux can be prevented or controlled.
Trigger Foods
People with GERD should avoid trigger foods that cause acid to reflux into the esophagus. While everyone's trigger foods are different, there are several foods that consistently trigger reflux in many people with this disease. Avoid chocolate, carbonated drinks, mint, coffee, alcohol, citrus juices, whole tomatoes and tomato sauces. If other foods seem to trigger GERD symptoms, eliminate them from your diet. Add one food back to your diet at a time to determine which ones cause GERD symptoms and which ones are safe to eat.
