Barrett's Syndrome Diet

Barrett's syndrome--also known as Barrett's esophagus--is a disorder of the esophagus that is thought to increase the risk of certain types of rare esophageal cancer. Since the risk of developing Barrett's syndrome is higher in people suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, many health care professionals believe that avoiding the foods that exacerbate GERD can help prevent the development of Barrett's syndrome. Avoiding certain types of foods and adopting particular eating habits can also be helpful to people already diagnosed with the disease.

Aspects

Individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease regularly have corrosive acid refluxed up from their stomach into the esophagus. Over time, exposure to the stomach acid damages the tissue lining the esophagus and the normal esophageal tissue may eventually be replaced by an abnormal single layer of acid-resistant cells that have a high risk of becoming cancerous.

When the esophageal tissue is replaced by these acid-resistant cells, the condition is then known as Barrett's syndrome. According to Emax Health, an American Journal of Epidemiology study suggests that diets high in animal protein, coffee and high-fat foods places individuals at a higher risk of developing Barrett's syndrome than people who eat mainly fruits and vegetables, fish and non-animal sources of protein.

Foods to Avoid

Both Barrettsinfo.com and the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology site report that the foods Barrett's syndrome patients should avoid are the same that should be avoided by anyone suffering from GERD or regular bouts of heartburn. These foods include highly fatty foods like cheeseburgers; acidic foods like oranges, tomatoes, or tomato-based sauces; pineapple, grapefruit or orange juice; spicy foods; whole dairy products or creamed foods and soups; foods cooked in large amounts of oil; highly caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee; carbonated sodas; chocolate and peppermint

Recommended Foods

To help control GERD and possibly prevent the development of Barrett's syndrome, or to decrease the severity of Barrett's syndrome, health professionals recommend focusing on the following foods: whole grains, especially whole grain bread; fruits like apples and bananas; green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, although all vegetables are considered beneficial; and low-fat sources of protein like chicken, fish or turkey.

Eating Habits

Besides avoiding reflux-inducing foods and focusing on foods that keep the stomach and esophagus soothed, people following a Barrett's syndrome controlling diet should avoid eating or drinking anything except water for several hours before bedtime. Most meals, especially dinner, should be small and should be eaten slowly and frequently.

Lifestyle Habits

Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology recommend a number of lifestyle changes that can effectively control Barrett's syndrome and GERD when coupled with changes in diet; these include avoiding chewing gum, smoking and all other tobacco use, wearing loose clothing and elevating the head of your bed at least 6 to 8 inches off the floor. The site also recommends losing weight if obesity is a problem and staying in an upright position--sitting or standing--after eating any meals.