A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes upward through the hiatus. This protrusion occurs at the diaphragm and esophagus where muscle tissue is weak. Hiatal hernias can cause pain and problems with acid reflux. While in many cases people with small hiatal hernias do not suffer any symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com, making changes in your diet often is treatment enough to control any recurrent heartburn and acid reflux. Only in rare cases is surgery needed to treat a hiatal hernia.
Step 1
Eat more often throughout the day. You can reduce the discomfort of a hiatal hernia by eating between four and six small meals instead of two or three large meals. Smaller amounts of food digest more quickly; therefore, by consuming smaller meals more frequently, you may experience fewer problems with acid reflux. If you want to eat at least one large meal, make it your midday meal.
Step 2
Stay away from spicy foods, which can trigger heartburn. Citrus fruits and tomato-based foods have a high acidic level that can also cause painful heartburn, especially if you eat them on an empty stomach. Eat more fruits, steamed vegetables and rice, as these foods are easy to digest. Fresh pineapple, papaya, banana, berries and avocado are safe fruits to eat.
Step 3
Reduce consumption of fatty foods that can aggravate the discomfort associated with hiatal hernia. Avoid eating red meats and a lot of snacks or processed foods, which have high fat content. Fatty foods take longer to digest allowing acids more time to backup into the esophagus.
Step 4
Switch to drinking non-caffeinated beverages. Another wise move is to limit the number of snacks or desserts you eat, especially those that are high in sugar or contain chocolate. Caffeine may cause heartburn by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, which increases the risk of acid reflux.
Step 5
Add more fiber to your diet. Eat whole wheat and whole grain breads, rice, cereals and pasta instead of products made from white flour, which are highly processed. Include plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruits in your daily diet to help prevent constipation that can lead to straining.
Step 6
Keep your body well hydrated. MayoClinic.com suggests going by the standard rule of drinking at least 64 oz of fluids each day. Water is the healthiest choice as it helps to wash stomach acids from the lining of the esophagus. You should drink a glass of water either before or after eating a meal.
Tips and Warnings
- Eating a well-balanced diet can help prevent a hiatal hernia. Nutritious foods also help to lessen the effects of a hernia if you already have one. Meals should include adequate servings of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, nuts, whole grains and nonfat or low-fat dairy.
