Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, results when a sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus does not work properly and food is allowed to reflux back into the esophagus. This reflux can cause symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, painful swallowing, sore throat and regurgitation, according to the Penn State University Hershey Medical Center. Medical treatments, including prescription drugs, can treet GERD, but dietary changes can also help reduce bothersome symptoms.
Foods to Avoid
Avoiding certain foods can help prevent GERD symptoms. For example, fatty, fried foods can worsen reflux because they put pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter and also take a long time to digest, according to the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois. A chemical in chocolate called methlyxanthine can also contribute to GERD, so chocolate is best limited in reflux sufferers. Other known trigger foods that can worsen symptoms include mint, tomatoes and citrus fruits.
Beverage Choices
Several beverages can also contribute to GERD symptoms. Coffee--both caffeinated and decaffeinated--can worsen reflux, as can citrus juices and alcoholic beverages, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These drinks should be limited if you find they trigger reflux in you. Instead, meet your fluid intake needs by choosing drinks that will not worsen symptoms. Water is always a safe choice.
Weight Loss
If you are overweight or obese, adopting a healthier diet in an effort to lose weight may help improve your reflux symptoms. People who are obese are more likely to suffer from GERD, according to MayoClinic.com. However, losing weight can help prevent reflux from occurring. To promote weight loss, the McKinley Medical Center advises choosing low-fat, low-calorie foods. Speak with your doctor about a healthy weight-loss plan that will work for you.
Meal Size
Another way to change your diet to prevent GERD symptoms is to eat smaller meals more frequently instead of three larger meals throughout the day, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. When you eat smaller meals, the stomach does not become so distended and not as much pressure is placed on the lower esophageal sphincter. This can help prevent GERD because food will not be refluxed back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.
Meal Timing
Consider altering when you eat to prevent GERD symptoms. In particular, avoid eating within three hours of going to bed, the McKinley Health Center advises. This is because lying down can worsen symptoms by making it easier for stomach contents to travel back up to the esophagus. If you cannot avoid eating for at least three hours before bed, try elevating your head 6 to 8 inches. Using pillows will likely not be sufficient; instead, consider lifting your bed up by placing study blocks underneath, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends. Sleeping on your left side may also help minimize reflux.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: GERD Diet
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophagel Refluc Disease-Prevention
- Penn State University Hershey Medical Center: Reflux
- MayoClinic.com: GERD
