Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly and allows the contents in the stomach to rise up into the esophagus. This condition can be unpleasant and even painful. While some individuals experience this condition frequently, others may only experience it after eating certain types of food. Those who experience acid reflux from bagels can make simple lifestyle modifications to reduce the occurrence or severity of this condition.
Step 1
Check the ingredients of the bagel. Avoid bagels that are made with acid-inducing ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, onions or chocolate chips. Plain, wheat or multi-grain bagels are a better option.
Step 2
Choose toppings wisely. Use margarine, jam or peanut butter instead of butter or cream cheese, as full-fat dairy products like these may contribute to acid reflux, explains MedlinePlus.
Step 3
Eat small portion sizes to minimize the likelihood of reflux. Opt for small bagels when possible, or only eat a half of a large bagel instead of eating the entire bagel in one sitting.
Step 4
Sit upright. Maintaining an upright posture during and after eating the bagel can help reduce the occurrence of acid reflux. Also make sure your clothing is loose around the abdominal area.
Step 5
Note of any reflux symptoms that occur after eating a bagel in a food diary. This will enable you to better understand the types of bagels or toppings that trigger your reflux so you will know what to avoid in the future.
Step 6
Call a doctor. If simple lifestyle modifications are not enough to allow you to eat bagels without experiencing acid reflux, ask a doctor if over-the-counter or prescription medications may be beneficial or necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Chew non-mint gum after eating your bagel. This increases saliva production and decreases acid in the esophagus, according to the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center.
- Avoid drinking coffee, caffeinated beverages, carbonated beverages and juices made from citrus fruits with your bagel. All of these beverages may trigger or exacerbate acid reflux, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. If you frequently experience acid reflux, you may have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disorder. See a doctor for treatment options.
